^ 





«•' 



HISTORY 



Montgomery County 



EMBRACING 



EARLY DISCOVERIES ; THE ADVANCE OF CIVILIZATION ; THE LABORS- 
AND TRIUMPHS OF SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON; THE INCEPTION 
AND DEVELOPMENT OF MANUFACTURES ; WITH TOWN 
AND LOCAL RECORDS; ALSO MILITARY ACHIEVE- 
MENTS OF MONTGOMERY PATRIOTS. 



REVISED AND EDITED 

By Washington Frothingham 



Experience is by industry achieved, 

And perfected by the swift course of time. 

— Shakespeare. 



SYRACUSE, N. v.: 

D. MASON & CO., Publishers and Printers. 
1892. 



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01 5* u 



PREFACE 



COUNTIES are the cliief divisions of all the states in the Union 
except South Carolina, where they are called " districts," and also 
Louisiana, where they are called " parishes." In England the same 
divisions are sometimes called " shires," and hence the term " shire 
town " is often applied to the seat of the county buildings. It need 
hardly be questioned whether Montgomery county has not just claim to 
a printed record of that history of which all its citizens may be proud. 
It was with the desire of doing this act of justice that the editor 
assumed the task which he has accomplished laboriously, and he hopes 
successfully. 

The publishers detailed a staff of faithful literateurs to each town 
and their reports are based on personal inspection, in order to insure 
accuracy. These reports have been thoroughly revised by the editor, 
who has made every effort to render this work authority in all matters 
within its scope, and especially in reference to the manufacturing in- 
terest. 

While engaged in this task he has become deeply interested in the 
town histories, which portray the labors of the pioneers, and also in the 
personal and family sketches which give variety to the work, and he has 
no doubt that this will prove an attractive as well as a useful volume. 

The lover of history will see that the record includes the earliest 
discoveries and all that subsequent detail of events which gradually led 
to our present greatness, and the justice done Sir William Johnson in 
these pages is not the least point in the importance of this work. 






^^^ 



8 PREFACE. 

While the editor acknowledges the faithful service done by his 
assistants, he has to a great degree recast their work in order to give 
the volume a unifoimity of style in which their individuality is merged. 
His object has been to present a simple narrative and let the facts thus 
recorded speak for themselves. 

One of the most thrilling features in the work is its military his- 
tory, which shows that the patriotism of the revolution was inherited 
by the heroes of the Union army and reminds us that 

Freedom's battles, once begun ; 
Bequeathed from bleeding sire to son, 
Though baffled oft, are ever won. 

In preparing the individual record it was decided to omit all titles. 
" Hon." has become so cheap and vulgar that it is almost disrespectful, 
and in this omission the editor only follows the example of William C. 
Bryant, who never permitted it to appear in the columns of the Even- 
ing Post. Other titles share the same fate, because we respect char- 
acter too highly to add decorations. 

Those who know anything of bookmaking will readily see that the 
cost of such a work must be very great. The publishers have spared 
no expense, and it may be reasonably claimed that they have fulfilled 
in the highest degree the duty they assumed. Hence both editor and 
publisher now unite in the expectation that this history will give full 
satisfaction to the citizens of Montgomery county and all other careful 
and intelligent readers. 



PERSONAL SKETCH. 

GENERAL Richard Montgomery was born in the north of Ireland, December 2, 1736, 
and early displayed a military taste. In his eighteentli year he entered the army 
and was soon ordered to Canada where the British were operating against the French 
who were eventually subjugated. Montgomery served there with distinction and wap 
thence ordered to the West Indies where he also won a record for gallantry. He had, 
however, a desire to become a citizen of New fork and this led him hither on the re- 
turn of peace. He settled at Rhinebeck and won the hand of Miss Jane Livingston, 
daughter of Judge Robert R. Livingston, and immediately became a leader in patriotic 
opinion. 

He represented Dutcliess county in the Provincial Congress and on the opening of 
the Revolution was made a general and ordered to the campaign against Canada. He 
bade farewell to his young wife with the words " Yon shall never blush for your 
Montgomery ' and his brief career indeed is one of which our nation is justly proud. 

He made a bold march through Canada conquering Chambly and Montreal, and these 
successes gave hope of eventual triumph. The illness of Schuyler threw upon him the 
entire command and he pressed forward with the determination to capture Quebec. 
Christmas (1775) found him planning an attack by storm, which was carried out the day 
before New Year. It began at midnight and the party which Montgomery led carried 
the first barricade. He then pressed forward to the second but was mortally wounded 
by the discharge of a gun, and two of his aids .shared hi.s fate. Aaron Burr, who held a 
lieutenant's commission, was in the attack and bore off the dying commander and the 
attack failed. Thus fell in his fortieth year the gallant Montgomery. His sad fati 
awoke national regret and Congress ordered a monument which was executed in Pari.'- 
under care of Franklin, our ambassador in that city. When peace was declared thi- 
monument was sent to New York and St. Paul's church was designated as a suitabli- 
locality. This monument is interesting as the very first erected to a revolutionary hero 
The peculiar design will attract the eye of all who have an historic taste. The inscrip- 
tion is as follows : 

" This monument is erected by order of Congress, 2.5th of January, 177G, to transmii 
to posterity a grateful remembrance of the patriotic conduct, enterprise, and perse- 
verance of Major-General Richard Montgomery, who, after a series of successes ami<l 
the most discouraging difficulties, fell in the attack on Quebec, 31st of December, 1775. 
aged 37 years." 

It was not, however, until 1818, nearly forty-three years after his death, that his re- 
mains were deposited beneath this monument. In the spring of that year a request on 
behalf of his widow was made of Sir John Sherbroke, Governor-General of Canada, tf 
permit nis remains to be removed from Quebec, where they had been buried immedi- 
ately after the storming of the city, and taken to New York. This request was acceded 



10 PERSONAL SKETCH, 

ito, and on the 16th of June, 1818, they were disinterred under the direction of Mr. 
James Thompson, one of the engineers who assisted in burying the general, and who 
identified the cofBn. On the 9th of July they reached Albany, where they lay in state 
in the capitol. The next day under military escort they were received on the steamer 
Richmond and taken to New York. 

Mrs. Montgomery survived her husband for nearly fifty years. After his death she 
built an elegant residence on the Hudson, near Tivoli, which she called Montgomery 
Hall, and from the piazza of which, more than forty-two years after his death, she saw 
the steamer which bore his body, glide, with tolling bell and colors at half-mast, slowly 
past. As she witnessed this mournful pageant how the childless widow, who for so 
many years had kept his memory green in her heart, must have recalled their last part- 
ing, when in the prime of manhood, he tore himself from her arms, and, kissing her, 
uttered the above quoted farewell, " You shall never blush for your Montgomery." 
How gallantly he redeemed that pledge history tells. His last words were, '' Men of 
New York, you will not fear to follow where your General leads. March on ! " 

In 1784, the year after the close of the Revolution, the legislature of this state changed 
Tryon county to Montgomery in honor of the hero of Quebec, and since then seventeen 
other counties have been thus named in as many states. None of them have an equally 
important historic record with our own Montgomery county whose history is given in 
the followmg pages. 



FEMALE NAMES. 

One of the peculiar features which has attracted the editor's attention while review- 
ing the family histories found in this volume is the fanciful female names which occur. 
He adds some of them, so that if any of our readers should be required to name a child- 
a choice of unique character could easily be made. 



Alzina, 


Byanoy, 


Emiletta, 


Luraine, 


MarduUa, 


Rosella, 


Arwillma, 


Biidella, 


Elda, 


Lueinma, 


Mony, 


Re.xie, 


Atlanta, 


Bethiah, 


Enianna, 


Lavenna, 


Ma.\a, 


Roby, 


Andalusia, 


Bella, 


Ervina, 


Launette, 


Maruva, 


Ruie, 


Alzetta, 


Cunberline, 


Elba, 


Ladenna, 


Metella, 


Rosetta, 


Alvia, 


Caddie, 


Eorba, 


La Pearl, 


Myrta, 


Selma, 


Alpha, 


Clemenza, 


Florella, 


Lifitte, 


Mabyn, 


Submit, 


Avelina, 


Celestia, 


Francana, 


Lula, 


Masia, 


Sabia, 


Althena, 


Caliata, 


Fidelia, 


Loi-y, 


Meeta, 


Sena, 


Almena, 


Catha. 


Gerta, 


Lenna, 


Nina. 


Samarie, 


Alfraetta, 


Carrieljel, 


Greta, 


Lura, 


Orva, 


Sniira, 


Arvelma, 


Christia, 


Georgena, 


Luetta, 


Oltana, 


Suzette, 


Abhalonia, 


Crete, 


Georgia, 


Liilhera, 


Orinda, 


Thankful, 


Artinietta, 


Dena, 


Gela, 


Lasera, 


Orvia, 


Tomette, 


Andella, 


Delia, 


Harma, 


Lodusky, 


Orvetta, 


Toica, 


Alwilda, 


Deloia, 


Heppie, 


Lisa, 


Percella, 


Tinetta, 


Arvilla, 


Doretha, 


Hearty, 


Leona, 


Phi lura. 


Ticy, 


Azuba, 


Delotta, 


Hazel, 


Lorena, 


Philinda, 


Virgie, 


Annice, 


Deeny, 


lone, 


Lelah, 


Perlina, 


Viva, 


Aurella, 


Dilla, 


Idela, 


Lenetta, 


Puah, 


Villa, 


Armeina, 


Delora, 


loma, 


Lucina, 


Prudy, 


Valira, 


Aptuma, 


Demetra, 


Ivy, 


Loli, 


Rulianna, 


Violetta, 


Anhina, 


Delight, 


Isora, 


Marilla, 


Rocklin, 


Viletta, 


Adell, 


Essie, 


Jasena, 


Mina, 


Regnia, 


Vanella, 


Arvillura, 


Elza, 


Kizzie, 


Milsena, 


Roseltha, 


Wannetta, 


Bertelle, 


Elva, 


Lylinda, 


Milisa, 


Rowellen, 


Zarneh, 


Beta, 


Evanna, 


Ladora, 


Moiona, 


Rozeda, 


Zelphia, 


Betelia, 


Elthera, 


Lovisa, 


Mannda, 


Romea, 


Zaida. 



MONTGOMERY COUNTY ANTIQUITIES. 



In an old historic country there is a natural tendency to honor the past and to- 
preserve its memorials, and this sentiment has had its influence in Montgomery county. 
The old German families have in most instances preserved the Bibles which theii 
ancestors brought from the fatherland, and in all probability there are more of tliesi- 
antique scriptures in this county than in any other district of equal size in our country. 



12 COUNTY ANTIQUITIES. 

Many other curiosities of the past are cherished here. Major Van Home of Fonda 
has the papers of his great-grandfather, Major JeUis Fonda, who served under Sir 
William Johnson, including the ledgers and account books which Major Fonda kept 
while engaged in trade. They are probably the oldest books of the kind in tie entire 
state, and were kept in a ver_v neat and even liandsorae manner. Mr. E. T. Schenck, 
another descendant, has Major Fonda's sword. 

Alfred De Graff has the Masonic emblem worn by his great-grandfather, Colonel 
Frederick Vischer, which is one of the oldest memorials of St. Patrick's Lodge. He 
also has a silver dollar corned more than a century and a half ago, and which has been 
in the family for five generations. 

The Maybee family have some of the furniture used by Sir William at Johnson 
Hall and Dr. Abbott (now of New York) has other memorials of Sir William which 
were pre.«erved by Amaniah Rust. Judge Rust was a prominent citizen of Johns- 
town, which, of course, is included in old Montgomery, and Mr. A. S. Van Voast of 
the same place has Sir William's prayer book. 

Mrs. Striker of Tribes Hill has a large copper tea kettle which was stolen from 
Lieutenant-Colonel Adam Fonda (her grandfather) during Sir John Johnson's raid, and 
also a life-size portrait of one of her ancestors, which is probably the oldeft work of 
art in the Mohawk Valley. 

Commodore Starin has quite a museum of historic relics which we have not space to 
detail. Many of these are from his ancestors, while others have been presented or 
gathered by his own taste, until ancient books, ancient weapons, utensils and furniture 
form a large and curious collection. 

Mr. Samuel C. Frey, of Palatine Bridge, has a large collection of Indian curiosities, 
but above all he has the original minutes of the Tryon county committee, which is one 
of the most remarkable manuscripts in the state and is of inestimable value as a relic of 
the times that tried men's souls. 

Cashier A. G. Richmond of Cauajoharie has a large and unusually rich collection of 
antiquities, gathered in this county and elsewhere, and representing Indian customs 
and warfare, with other curiosities equally rare. 

Professor Cryder of the same place has become deeply interested in the specialty of 
antique powder horns and has found this pu-suit one of great interest. Being an artist 
he has made drawings of all such implements, and has nearly two hundred thus por- 
trayed. One of these represents the powder horn that Christian Schell used in his 
famous fight with the Indians. 

The Red Men at Fonda have some interesting relics and it may be added that Mr. 
Alfred W. ShuU of Stone Arabia has the bell that formerly belonged to the old church 
at Caughnawaga. It has been recast (owing to a fracture), but otherwise is identical. 

Other interesting memorials might be mentioned did our limited space permit, but 
we must close adding, however, the interesting fact that the well-known antiquary, 
fepthah R. Simms, made a collection of historic curiosities which the state purchased 
at an expense of .$5,000, and hence a large number of Montgomery county antiquities 
are now preserved in Albany. 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER I. 



The Subject — Origin of Tryon County — Name Chantjed to Montgomery — Ex- 
tent and Boundaries — Counties Formed Directly From Montgomery — Dis- 
tricts and Towns Organized — Description of the County — Physical Features 
and Principal Water Courses — Geological Formation 17 

CHAPTER n. 

European Discoveries and Explorations-- The French in Canada — The Puritans 
in New England — The Dutch in New York — Advance in Civilization To- 
ward the Central Mohawk Valley — Champlain Invades the Territory of the 
Mohawks — The First Battle' — Dutch Troubles with Indians — Grant of the 
Province of New York — Conquest and Overthrow of the Dutch in New 
Netherlands 21 

CHAPTER HI. 

The Indian Occupation- -The Iroquois Confederacy — The Five and Six Nations 
of Indians — Location and Names — Character and Power of the League — 
Social and Domestic Habits — The Mohawks — Treatment of the Jesuit Mis- 
sionaries — Discouraging Efforts at Civilization — Names of Missionaries — 
Alliance with the English — Downfall of the Confederacy 26 

CHAPTER IV. 

The French and Indian Wais — Causes Lea<ling to Them — English and French 
Jealousies — Failure of Lord de Courcelles' Expedition against the Mohawks 
— Corlear Saves the French from Destruction — Iroquois Seek a Peace — 
French Treachery — The Peace of Breda — War Renewed — Iroquois ask 
English Protection — Invasion of Canada — Schenectady Destroyed — The Mo- 
hawks show Friendship — English Colonies Aroused to Action — Services of 
John and Peter Schuyler — Frontenac Invades the Mohawk Country — The 
Castles Captured — Treaty of Ryswick — Peace Again Restored 31 



14 CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER V. 

Rivalry between the French and English — Relative Justice of their Claims — How 
Defined by Sir William Johnson — Both Nations make Treaties with the Iro- 
quois — Provisions of the Treaty of Ryswick — ■ French Encroachments beyond 
the Treaty line — War Declared in 1774 — French Outrages in the Mohawk 
Country — Treaty of Peace at Aix-la-Chapelle — The Situation — The Albany 
Convention — King Hendrick's Speech — Preparation for War — Expeditions 
of 1755 — Services of General Johnson — Shirley's Conduct — Battle at Lake 
George — Death of Hendrick — Distinction of Sir William Johnson 37 

CHAPTER VI. 

French and English War Continued — Results of the Campaigns in 1756 — French 
Successes in that and Succeeding Years — The Iroquois Divided — Johnson's 
efforts to Unite Them — Webb's Disgraceful Conduct — The Mohawk Valley 
Invaded — Palatine Village destroyed — Abercrombie's Neglect and Ineffi- 
ciency — Campaigns of 1757-58 — English Successes — French Reverses — - 
Johnson's Achievements — Extinction of the French Power in America 4& 

CHAPTER VII. 

Early Settlement of the Mohawk Valley — Van Corlear's Patent — Settlement at 
Schenectady — German Palatines at Schoharie Creek, at Canajoharie and Pal- 
atine Village — Their Character and Customs — Located there as a Defense 
against the French Invasions — The Plan not Fully Successful — Sir William 
Johnson forms the Germans into Militia Companies — French and Indian 
Land Grants — Charters of New York and Pennsylvania compared — The 
Former a Royal Province — Patents Issued Including Lands in Montgomery 
County 53 

CHAPTER VIII. 
SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON, BARONET 51 

CHAPTER IX. 

Situation in Tryon County from the Close of the French War to the Revolution — 
British Oppression Causes Discontent — The Stamp Act — Duties Levied on 
other Commodities — The Boston Tea Party — First Congress at Philadelphia 

— New York Opposes the Action of Congress — Districts of Tryon County 

— Guy Johnson Disperses the Meeting at Caughnawaga — Attack upon Jacob 
Sammons! — Action of Loyalists — Guy Park Fortified — Genera! Meeting of 
the Tryon County Committee — Its Object — Guy Johnson Departs for 
Canada — Conduct of Sir John — He Fortifies the Hall and Arms the High- 
landers — His Arrest, Parole and Flight to Canada — The Estate Confiscated 

— Character and Duties of the Committees of Safety 71 



CONTENTS. 15 

CHAPTER X. 

Beginning of the Revolution — The Britisli Influence — The Iroquois — Oneidas 
Remain Neutral — Organization of Militia in Tryon County — St. Leger In- 
vades the Mohawk Valley — The Battle of Oriskany and Fort Schuyler — The 
British Defeated — The First Pension — Indian Depredations in 1778 — Cam- 
paigns of Sullivan and Clinton in 1779 — Sir John Johnson Invades the Val- 
ley in 1780 — Visits Johnstown and Secures his Plate — Detail of his Raid. . 81 

CHAPTER XI. 

Additional Depredations in the Mohawk Valley — Sir John Johnson again Invades 
the Region — The Battle at Stone Arabia — Van Rensselaer's Cowardly Con- 
duct — Condition of the Inhabitants after the Raid — Governor Clinton sends 
Colonel Willett to Protect the Valley — Invasion by Brant and Butler — 
Defeat of the latter by Willett's Troops — Battle at Johnstown — The Enemy 
Routed — Death of Walter Butler — End of Hostilities in the Mohawk Valley 93 

CHAPTER Xn. 

Condition of the Mohawk Valley at the close of the Revolution — Mohawk Indians 
Forfeit their Lands to the State -;- Return of the Tories — The Treatment by 
the Mohawk Committee — Settlement of the Region by New Englanders — 
Tryon County Changed to Montgomery — First County OflScers — County 
Buildings — Counties Formed from Montgomery 99 

CHAPTER XHI. 

Situation in the Mohawk Valley Prior to the War — Its Peace and Prosperity — 
Events Preceding the War — Causes Leading to it — British Aggressions — 
American Retaliations — Declaration of War — Militia Called into Service — 
Regiments Formed in the Valley — Their Services — The Return of Peace . 104 

CHAPTER XIV. 

County Organizations — Tryon and Montgomery Counties Briefly Reviewed — 
The County Seat Moved to Fonda — Dissatisfaction in the Northern Towns — 
Fulton County Created — Montgomery County Civil List . ... 107 

CHAPTER XV. 

MONTGOMERY COUNTY DURING THE REBELLION 115 

CHAPTER XVI. 
Internal Improvements — Early Navigation of the Mohawk — The Inland Lock. and 
Navigation Company — The Erie Canal — Railroad Building — The Montgomery 
County Agricultural Society 137 

CHAPTER XVII. 
THE LEGAL PROFESSION IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY 143 



16 CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XVIII. 
THE MEDICAL PROFESSION IN MONT&OMERY COUNTY 160 

CHAPTER XIX. 
THE TOWN OF AMSTERDAM 172 

CHAPTER XX. 
THE TOWN OF MINDBN 216 

CHAPTER XXI. 
THE TOWN OF CANAJOHARIE 241 

CHAPTER XXII. 
THE TOWN OF MOHAWK 261 

CHAPTER XXIII. 
THE TOWN OF GLEN 280 

CHAPTER XXIV. 

THE TOWN OF FLORIDA 294 

CHAPTER XXV. 
THE TOWN OF ST. JOHNSVILLE 306 

CHAPTER XXVI. 

THE TOWN OF PALATINE 317 

CHAPTER XXVII. 
THE TOWN OF ROOT 332 

CHAPTER XXVIII. 
THE TOWN OF CHARLESTON 344 

CHAPTER XXIX. 
BIOGRA PHICAL 350 



PART 11. 



FAMILY SKETCHES 1 

INDEX 327 

INDEX TO FAMILY SKETCHES "^4.^ 

3^/ 



HISTORY 



Montgomery County. 



CHAPTER I. 

The Subject — Origin of Tiyon County — Name Changed to Montgomery — Extent 
and Boundaries — Counties Formed Directly From Montgomery — Distriets'and Towns 
Organized — Description of the County — Physical Features and Principal Water 
Courses — Geological Formation. 

ALL hail Montgomery County ! Yes, all hail the scene round which 
cluster such thrilling memories, and happy will the historian be 
if his researches reflect additional honor upon such a storied territory 
— one indeed which originally included a third of the entire state. And 
now, reader, let us look at some of the more prominent historic facts. 

In 1772, three years before the outbreak of the Revolution, the 
legislature of New York divided the original county of Albany, creat- 
ing two additional counties, one of which was called Tryon, in honor of 
William Tryon, the British governor of the province. What an im- 
mense county it was ! embracing all the territory ot the state which lay 
west of the Delaware river and a line extending thence north through 
Schoharie county, and along the east line of Montgomery, Fulton and 
Hamilton (as now existing), and thence direct to Canada. Governor 
Tryon became so offensive to the victorious Americans in the Mohawk 
valley that, in 1784, the name was changed to Montgomery, in honor 

3 



IS rilSTOKY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

of the patriotic American general who fell in the attempt to capture 
Quebec. In 1788 the boundaries of the then existing counties of the 
state were accurately defined, and Montgomery county was made to 
include all the territory of the state west of Ulster, Albany, Washington 
and Clinton counties. 

The first territorial reduction of old Montgomery was made in 1789 
when Ontario was erected, including within its boundaries all that p;irt 
of the state west of Seneca Lake and amounting in the aggregate to 
more than two million acres. In 1791 Montgomery was again reduced 
in area by the creation of Hamilton, Herkimer, Otsego and Tioga coun- 
ties, leaving only the territory which it now includes with that of Fulton 
county. Hamilton, however, was restored to the mother county in 
1797, but it was again set off in 1816. In 1838 Fulton county was 
erected and included within its boundaries more than one- half the ter- 
ritory which then remained to Montgomery county. In this manner 
old Montgomery has been reduced from an original area of about eight 
million acres (roughly estimated) to its present 289,040 acres, or 436 
square miles. 

Soon after the creation of Tryon county (March 24, 1772), its inhab- 
ited territory was divided into five provisional districts, for the purpose 
of government, namely : Mohawk, Canajoharie, Palatine, German Flats 
and Kingsland. The sixth district of the county — old England — in- 
cluding lands west of the Susquehanna river, was formed April 3, 1775. 
On March 9, 1780, that part of the Mohawk district lying north of the 
river was set off under the name of Caughnawaga. In 1788 this district 
was f<.>rmed into a township and included all of the county lying north 
of the Mohawk and east of a line extending from the Nose to Canada. 
Five years later (1793) this town was divided and Amsterdam, May- 
field, Rroadalbin and Johnstown were organized from its territory. When 
this division took place, the old name (Caughnawaga) was limited to 
that ancient village which forms a part of Fonda. 

Canajohaiie, both as a district and town, has been preserved in name 
since its original formation in 1772. In 1788 this district became a 
town, but its territory has since in part been taken in the creation of 
other towns — Minden in 1798, and an addition in 1849, and a part of 
Root in 182s. 



TOPOGRAI'IIV AND aKOGKAPirV. \if 

Palatine was at first a district called Stone Arabia. This was in 1772, 
but in 1775 the name was changed to Palatine. It embraced all the 
territory between the " Little Falls" and the Nose, and extended from 
the Mohawk to Canada. The towns of Salisbury, Stratford, Oppen- 
heim, and Ephratah have been formed, in whole or in part, from the 
original Palatine. 

Mohawk district originally included all the territory between the 
eastern boundary of Tryon county and a north and south line crossing 
the river at Anthony's Nose, and extending north and south between 
these lines as far as the limits of the county. Caughnawaga, north of 
the river, was taken from this vast tract in 1788 and subdivided, as has 
been stated, in 1793. The present town of Mohawk was formed from 
Johnstown in 1837, while Johnstown itself was originally a part of 
Cauglinawaga, and the latter was a part of the still older district of 
Mohawk. 

Charleston and Florida were both formed from lands of the old 
Mohawk district by an act passed March 12, 1793. 

Glen was formed from Charleston April 10, 1823. Minden was taken 
from Canajoharie March 22, 1798. Danube (Herkimer county) was 
taken from Minden in 181 7. Root was formed from Canajoharie and 
Charleston, January 27, 1823, and St. Johnsville from Oppenheitn, 
April 18, 1838, but it is a part of the old Palatine district. 

Having thus briefly mentioned the gradual method by which Mont- 
gomery county (as at present constituted), and its several towns were 
brought into existence, we may now appropriately give a general topo- 
graphical and geographical description. 

Montgomery is bounded on the north by F"ulton county ; east by 
Schenectady and Saratoga ; south by Schenectady, Schoharie and Ot- 
sego ; and west by Herkimer. It lies on both sides of the Mohawk, 
centrally distant from Albany about forty miles, and contains 436 
square miles. The general range of highlands which forms the con- 
necting link between the northern spurs of the Alleghany mountains on 
the south, and the Adirondacks on the north, extends through the 
county in a northeast and southwest direction. The Mohawk cuts 
through the upland and forms a valley one to two miles in width, and 
skirted by hills from one hundred to five hundred feet in height. The 



-20 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

valleys of the several tributaries of tlie Mohawk extend several miles 
into the highland districts at nearly right angles with the river. The 
hills bordering upon the latter generally rise in gradual slopes, and from 
their summits the country spreads out into an undulating upland, with 
a general inclination toward the river, into which every part of the 
county is drained. The principal tributaries of the Mohawk are the 
East Canada, Garoga, Cayadutta Chuctenunda creeks, and Eva's Kill, 
on the north, and Cowilliga, Schoharie, Auries, Flat, Canajoharie and 
Otsquaga creeks on the south. The highest point of land in the county 
is said to be Bean Hill, in Florida, and is estimated at 700 feet above 
tide. The lowest point is the bed of the Mohawk, on the east line of 
the county about 260 feet above tide. 

Gneiss, the only primary rock in the county, is found in patches, its 
principal locality being near the Nose, on the river. Resting directly 
upon this are heavy masses of calciferous sandstone, appearing most 
frequently on the north side of the Mohawk and trending northward 
into Fulton county. This rock is occasionally found to contain in its 
cavities quartz and nodules of anthracite coal, which has led to vain ex- 
penditures in mining for coal. Near Spraker's Basin traces of lead have 
been found. Above the sandstone and next to it are the Black River 
and Trenton limestone, not important as surface rocks, but furnishing 
valuable quarries of building stone. The slates and shales of the Hud- 
son river group extend along the south border of the county, and are 
found in a few places north of the river. Drift and bowlders abound in 
various places. The soil along the river consists of alluvial deposits of 
deep, rich, vegetable mould, and upon the uplands it is mostl)' a highly 
productive, sandy and gravelh' loam. The lands of the county gener- 
ally are well adapted to agricultural pursuits ; while dairying and the 
raising of spring grains and broom corn have been especially remuner- 
ative. 



DISCOVERY OF AMERICA. 



CHAPTER II. 



European Discoveries and Explorations — The French in Canada — The Puritans in 
New England — The Dutch in New York — Advance in Civilization toward the Cen- 
tral Mohawk Valley — Champlain Invades the Territory of the Mohawks — The First 
Battle — Dutch Troubles with Indians — Grant o£ the Province of New York — Con- 
quest and Overthrow of the Dutch in the New Netherlands. 

JUST four hundred years ago the first Spanish adventurers landed on 
the shores of the American continent. Sailing under the patron- 
age of Spain, Christopher Columbus, the daring Genoese, in 1492, made 
his wonderful discoveries. This event has generally been designated as 
the discovery of America, but it is evident that the first Europeans to 
visit the western hemisphere were Scandinavians, who colonized Iceland 
in A. D. 875, Greenland in 983, and about the year 1000 had cruised 
southward as far as the Massachusetts coast. 

During the ages that preceded these events, no grander country in 
every point of view ever awaited the approach of civilization. With 
climate and soil diversified between the most remote extremes ; with 
thousands of miles of ocean shore, indented by magnificent harbors to 
welcome the world's commerce; with many of the largest rivers of the 
globe draining its territory and forming natural highways for commerce ; 
with a system of lakes so immense in area as to entitle them to the 
name of inland seas; with mountains, hills and valleys laden with the 
richest minerals and almost exhaustless fuel ; and with scenery unsur- 
passed for grandeur, it needed only the Caucasian to transform a wil- 
derness inhabited by savages into the free, enlightened republic, which 
is to-day the wonder and glory of the civilized world. 

Following close upon the discoveries of Columbus and other earlier 
explorers, various foreign powers fitted out fleets and commissioned 
navigators to establish colonies in the vast but unknown continent. It 
is not within the scope of the present work to detail the results accom- 
plished by those bold navigators, and yet they naturally led to others of 
greater importance, eventually rendering the great Mohawk valley the 



22 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

battlefield of various contending powers, each striving for supremacy 
and dominion over a territory of which Montgomery county is an im- 
portant integral part. These events, however, will be but briefly 
mentioned, and only those will be detailed which had a direct bearing 
upon our subject. 

In 1 50S, Aubert discovered the St. Lawrence river; and in 1524, 
Francis I, King of France, sent Jean Verrazzani on a voyage of explora- 
tion to the new world. He entered a harbor, supposed to have been 
that of New York, where he remained fifteen days ; and it is believed 
that his crew were the first Europeans to land on the soil of what is now 
the state of New York The Gallic explorer cruised along the coast in 
his frail vessels to the extent of about 2,100 miles, sailing as far north 
as Labrador, and giving to the whole region the name of " New France " 
— a name by which the French possessions in America were ever known 
during the dominion of that power. In 1834 the same king sent Jacques 
Cartier to the new country. He made two voyages and ascended the 
St. Lawrence as far as Montreal. The next year he again \nsited the 
same region with a fleet which brought a number of French nobility, all 
of whom were filled with high hopes, and bearing the blessings of the 
church. This party was determined upon the colonization of the coun- 
try, but, after passing a winter at the Isle of Orleans and suffering much 
from the rigors of the climate, they abandoned their scheme and returned 
to France. As a beginning of the long list of needless and shameful 
betrayals, treacheries and other abuses to which the two confiding na- 
tives were subjected, Cartier inviegled into his vessel the Indian chief 
Donnegana, who had been his generous host, and bore him with several 
others into hopeless captivity and final death. 

The failure of this scheme delayed for several years further action in 
the same direction, but in 1 540 Cartier again visited the scene of his 
explorations, accompanied by Jean Francis de Roberi'al, the latter hold- 
ing a king's commission as lieutenant-general over the " new countries 
of Canda, Hochelaga and Saguenay." This commission, according to 
Watson, conferred authority over a vast territor}- with the plenary 
powers of vice-royalty. The results of this voyage, however, were no 
more profitable than its predecessor, and the effect was to discourage 
further attempts in the same direction until about 1598, when New 



CIIAMPLAIN'S EXrEDITIONS. 23 

France, particularly its Canadian portion, was made a place of banish- 
ment for French convicts ; but even this plan failed, and it remained 
for private enterprise, stimulated bj' the hope of gain, to make the first 
successful eftbrt toward the permanent occupation of the country. 

The real discoverer and founder of a permanent colony in New 
France was Samuel de Champlain, a man born with that uncontrollable 
instinct of investigation and desire for knowledge of distant regions 
which has always so strong!)' characterized all great explorers. His 
earlier adventures in this countrj- have no connection with this work, 
and it is therefore sufficient to merely mention that in 1608, having 
counseled his patrons that the banks of the St. Lawrence was the most 
favorable site for a new empire, he was sent to the country and founded 
Quebec. To satisfy his love for exploration, Champlain united with the 
Canadian Indians and marched into the unknown country which the 
latter had described to him. The result was the discovery of the lake 
that bears his name ; the invasion of the lands of the Mohawks in the 
country of the Iroquois; a conflict between the Algonquins (aided by 
Champlain) and a portion of the Iroquois confederacy, in which the 
latter were defeated with the loss of two of their chiefs, who fell b_\- the 
hands of Champlain himself. 

Thus was signalized the first hostile meeting between the white man 
and the Indian. Low as the latter was found in the scale of intelligence 
and humanity, and terrible as were many of the subsequent deeds of 
the Iroquois, it cannot be denied that their early treatment could foster 
in the savage breast no other feeling than that of bitterest hostility. It 
seems like a pathetic page of romance to read Chaniplain's statement 
that "The Iroquois are greatly astonished, seeing two men killed so 
instantaneously," one of whom was their chief; while the ingenuous 
acknowledgment of the Frenchman, " I had put four balls into my 
arquebus," is a vivid testimony of how little mercy the Iroquois nations 
were thenceforth to expect from their northern enemies and the pale- 
faced race which was eventually to drive them from their domain. It 
was an age, however, in which might was appealed to as right more 
frequently than in later years, and the planting of the lowl)' banner of 
the Cross was frequently preceded by bloody conquests. It is in the 
light of the prevailing custom in the old world in Champlain's time that 
we must view his ready hostility to the Indian. 



24 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Now let us turn briefly to other events which have had an important 
bearing on the settlement of this part of the country A few weeks 
after the battle between Champlain and the Indians, Henry Hudson, a 
navigator in the service of the Dutch East India Company, anchored 
his ship {The Halfmooit) at the mouth of the river which now bears his 
name. This took place September 5, 1609. He met the savages and 
was hospitably received by them ; but before his departure he subjected 
them to an experimental knowledge of the effects of intoxicating liquor 
— an experience perhaps more baneful in its results than that inflicted 
by Champlain with his new and murderous weapon. 

Hudson ascended the river to a point within less than a hundred miles 
of that reached by Champlain, then returned to Europe, and, through 
information he had gained, he soon after established a Dutch colony, 
for which a charter was granted in 1614, naming the region "New 
Netherlands." The same year they built a fort on Manhattan Island, 
and the next year another, called Fort Orange, on the site of Albany. 
In 1 62 1 the Dutch West India Company was formed and took posses- 
sion of "New Amsterdam" and the New Netherlands; and in 1626 
the territory was made a province or county of Holland. For fifteen 
years the Dutch settlers remained at peace with the Indians, but the 
harsh and unwise administration of the provisional governor, William 
Kieft, provoked the latter to hostilities, which continued with but little 
interruption during the remainder of the Dutch dominion. 

Meanwhile, in 1607, the English had made their first permanent set- 
tlement at Jamestown, Va, and in 1620 planted their historic colony at 
Plymouth Rock. These two colonies became the successful rivals of all 
others, in that strife which finally left them masters of the country. 

On the discoveries and colonizations thus briefly noted, three great 
European powers based claims to a part of the territory embraced in 
the state of New York ; first, England, by reason of the discovery of 
John Cabot, who sailed under commission from Henry VII, and on the 
24th of June, 1497, reached the sterile coast of Labrador, also that made 
in the following year by his son, Sebastian, who explored the same 
coast from New Foundland to Florida, claiming a territory eleven de- 
grees in width and indefinitely extending westward ; second, France, 
which, from the discoveries of Verrazzani, claimed a portion of the At- 



DUTCH DOMINION. 2& 

lantic coast, and also (under the title of New France), an almost bound- 
less region westward ; third, Holland, which based on Hudson's discov- 
eries a claim to the entire country from Cape Cod to the southern shore 
of Delaware Bay. 

The Dutch, however, became the temporary occupants of the region.' 
under consideration ; but their domination was of brief duration. In- 
dian hostilities were provoked through the ill-considered action of Gov- 
ernor Kieft, whose official career continued for about ten years, being 
superseded by Peter Stuyvesant in May, 1647. Stuyvesant was the 
last of the Dutch governors, and his firm and equitable policy had the 
effect of harmonizing the discontent existing among the Indians. On 
the 1 2th of March, 1664, however, Charles II, of England, granted by 
letters patent to his brother, James, the Duke of York, all the country 
from the river St. Croix to the Kennebec in Maine, together with all 
the land from the west bank of the Connecticut river to the east side of 
Delaware Bay. The duke sent an English squadron to secure the gift, 
and on the 8th of September following, Governor Stuyvesant capitu- 
lated, being constrained to that course by the Dutch colonists, who pre- 
ferred peace with the same privileges and liberties accorded to the 
English colonists, to a prolonged and perhaps fruitless contest. The 
English changed the name of New Amsterdam to New York, and thus 
ended the Dutch dominion in America. 

The Dutch, during their period of peace with the Iroquois, had be- 
come thrifty and prosperous by trading guns and rum to the Indiana 
for furs, thus supplying them with doubly destructive weapons. The 
peaceful relations existing between the Dutch and the Indians at the 
time of the English accession were maintained by the latter, but the 
strife and jealousy between the English and the Freneh continued, the 
former steadily gaining ground both through their success in forming 
and maintaining an alliance with the Iroquois and also through the 
more permanent character of their settlements. It may be added that 
the final surrender of the Dutch to the English power did not lead to a 
withdrawal of the former from the territory. It made no great differ- 
ence to the settlers from Holland whether they were under their own 
or English jurisdiction, but had their preferences been consulted the) 
would of course have preferred their mother country. Their settle- 
4 



26 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

merits extended from New Amsterdam (New York) on the south, to 
Albany on the north, mainly along the Hudson river, but there are well 
defined evidences of their early occupation of what is now western Ver- 
mont, and also part of Massachusetts ; and at the same time they also 
advanced their outposts along the Mohawk valley toward the region of 
old Tryon county. 



CHAPTER HI. 



Tlie Indian Occupation — The Iroquois Confederacy — Tlje Five and Six Nations 
of Indians — Location and Names — Character and Power of the League — Social and 
Domestic Habits — The Mohawks — Treatment of the Jesuit Missionaries — Discourag- 
ing Efforts at CiviHzation — Names of Missionaries — Alliance with the English — Down- 
fall of the Confederacy. 

AFTER the establishment of the Dutch in the New Netherlands the 
region now embraced within the state of New York was held by 
three powers — one native and two foreign. The main colonies of 
the French (one of the powers referred to) were in the Canadas, but 
through the zeal of the Jesuit missionaries their line of possessions 
had been extended south and west of the St. Lawrence river, and some 
attempts at colonization had been made, but as yet with only partial 
success. In the southern and eastern portion of the province granted 
to the Duke of York were the English, who with steady yet sure ad- 
vances were pressing settlement and civilization westward and gradually 
nearing the French possessions. The French and English were at this 
time, and also for many years afterwards, conflicting powers, each study- 
ing for the mastery on both sides of the Atlantic; and with each suc- 
ceeding outbreak of war in the mother countries, so there were renewed 
hostilities between their American colonies. Directly between the pos- 
sessions of the French and the territory of the English lay the lands of 
the famous Iroquois confederacy, then more commonly known as the 
Five Nations. By the French they were called the "Iroquois," but by 
the Dutch they were known as the "Maquas," while the English called 
them "Mingoes;" but however variously they may have been desig- 



THE IROQUOIS. 2T 

nated, they were a race of savages whose peculiar organization, prowess- 
on the field of battle, loyalty to friends, as well as barbarous revenge 
upon enemies, together with eloquent speech and stoical endurance of 
torture, have surprised all who are conversant with their history. 

When, during the latter part of the fifteenth and the early part of the 
sixteenth century, the foreign navigators visited the American conti- 
nent, they found it in the possession of two formidable races of savages, 
between whom there was no unity ; and yet while open hostility was 
suppressed, they were nevertheless in a constant state of disquiet, each 
being jealous of the other and at the same time doubtful of its own 
strength and fearful of the results of a general war. One of the nations 
occupied the region of the larger rivers of Pennsylvania, and also that on 
the south and west. They were known as the Delawares to the Euro- 
peans, but styled themselves " Lenni Lenapes," meaning "Original 
People." The other nation occupied, principally, the territory which 
afterwards formed the state of New York, and is known in history as 
the "Iroquois Confederacy," or the Five (and subsequently) the Six 
Nations. 

Their confederacy originally comprised five nations which were lo- 
cated from east to wes^^ across the territory which now forms our state, 
beginning with the Mohawks on the extreme east, the Oneidas next, 
and the Onondagas, Cayugas and Senecas following in the above named 
order. Each of these nations was divided into five tribes, and all were 
united in common league. Parkman says: " Both reason and tradition 
point to the conclusion that the Iroquois originally formed one individ- 
ual people. Sundered, like countless other tribes, by dissensions, ca- 
price, or the necessities of a hunter's life, they separated into five distinct 
nations." The central council fire of the confederacy was with the 
Onondagas, while to the Mohawks, according to Clark, was always ac- 
corded " the high consideration of furnishing the war captain (Chief 
Tckarahogea), which distinguishing title was retained so late as 1814." 

The government of this remarkable confederacy was exercised 
through councils, in which each nation was represented by deputies or 
sachems. In their peculiar blending of the individual, the tribal and 
the national interests lay the secret of the immense power which for 
more than a century resisted the hostile efforts of the French, which 



■28 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

-caused them for nearly a century to be alike courted and feared by the 
contending French and English colonies, and which enabled them to 
subdue the neighboring Indian tribes, until they became really the dic- 
tators of the continent, gaining indeed the title of " The Romans of the 
New World." Dewitt Clinton speaking on this subject said, " The)' 
reduced war to a science, and their movements were directed by system 
and policy. They never attacked a hostile country till they had sent 
out spies to explore and designate its vulnerable points, and when they 
encamped they observed the greatest circumspection to guard against 
surprise. Whatever superiority of force they might have, they never 
neglected the use of stratagem, employing all the crafty wiles of the 
Carthaginians." There is, however, a difference in the opinions of 
authors as to the true military status of the Iroquois. In the forest they 
were a terrible foe, while in an open country they could not successfully 
contend with disciplined soldiery ; but they made up for this deficiency, 
to a large degree, by their self-confidence, vindictiveness and insatiable 
desire for ascendancy and triumph. 

While the Iroquois were undoubtedly superior in mental capacity 
and more provident than their Canadian enemies, and other tribes, there 
is little indication that they were ever inclined to improve the condition 
in which they were found by the Europeans. They were closely at- 
tached to their warrior and hunter life, and devoted their energies to 
the lower, if not the lowest forms of enjoyment and gratification. Their 
dwellings, even among the more stationary tribes, were rude, their food 
coarse and poor, and their domestic habits and surroundings unclean 
and barbarous. Their dress was ordinarily the skins of animals until 
the advent of the whites, and was primitive in character. Their women 
were degraded into mere beasts of burden, and while they believed in 
a Supreme Being, they were powerfully swayed by superstition, by in- 
cantations, by " medicine men," dreams and visions, and their feasts 
were exhibitions of debauchery and gluttony. 

Such, according to our sincere belief, are some of the more promi- 
nent characteristics of the race encountered by Champlain when he 
came into the Iroquois country near three centuries ago, and welcomed 
them with the first volley of bullets, a policy that was pursued by all 
his civilized successors. It is not denied that the Indians possessed a 



MISSIONARY EFFORTS. 29 

few redeeming characteristics, but tliey were so strongly dominated by 
their barbarous manner of life and tlieir savage traits, that years of faith- 
ful missionary labor by the Jesuits and others were productive of but 
little real benefit. It may be added that whatever is true of any of the 
Five Nations, or (as they became in 171 2) the Six Nations, is equally 
true of all others. The Mohawks occupied the region of eastern and 
northern New York, and it is with them that we have particularly to 
deal in this narrative. They were, perhaps, as peaceful and domestic 
as any of the confederacy, yet all the early efforts for their civilization 
and conversion to Christianity were uncertain and discouraging. No 
strong, controlling influence for good was ever obtained among them 
prior to the time of Sir William Johnson, and even then it is doubtful 
whether they were not moved more by the power of purchase than by 
love of rectitude. 

When Champlain opened the way for French dominion in America 
the task of planting Chrisianity among the Indians was assigned to the 
Jesuits, a name derived from the Society of Jesus founded by Ignatius 
Loyola in 1539 ; but while their primary object was to spread the gos- 
pel, their secondary and scarcely less important purpose was to extend 
the French dominion. In 1736 Canada was restored to France, and 
within three years from that date there were fifteen Jesuits in the prov- 
ince. They rapidly increased and extended their influence to a large 
number of the Indian nations in the far west, but more particularly to 
the Mohawks and the Senecas, whose land lay on the west of the " long 
house " of the Iroquois. As early as 1654, during a temporary peace 
between the French and the Five Nations, Father Bablon founded a 
mission and built a chapel in the Mohawk valley, but when war was re- 
sumed the Jesuits were forced to flee. Between 1657 ^""^ '769 twenty- 
four missionaries labored among the Iroquois Indians, but we are di- 
rectly interested only in those who sought converts among the Mohawks. 
Isaac Jogues was one of these, whose career in the Indian country 
forms one of the most thrilling ^chapters of history. He was held by 
the Mohawks as a prisoner from August, 1642, to the same month of 
the next year, and labored as a missionary with the same nation in 
1646, in October of which year he was killed. Simon Le Moyne labored 
with the Mohawks about two months in 1655, and again in 1656, and 



30 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

also the third time from August, 1657, to May, 1658. Frances Joseph 
Bressani was imprisoned by the IVIohavvks about six months in 1644. 

Julien Garnier was sent to them in May, 1668, and passed on to the 
Onondagas and Senecas. Jacques Bruyas came from the Onondagas 
to the Mohawks in July, 1667. He left for the Oneidas in September 
and returned in 1672, continuing in service several years. Jacques 
Fremin came in July, 1667, and remained about a year. Jean Perron 
was sent in the same year, and he also remained about a year. Francis 
Boniface labored with the Mohawks from 1668 to 1673, when he was 
succeeded by Francis Vaillant De Gueslis. These faithful missionaries 
were followed in later years by such noble workers as Talbot, Henry 

Barclay, John Ogilvie, Spencer, Timothy Woodbridge, Gideon 

Hawley, Eleazer Wheelock, Samuel Kirkland, Bishop Hobart, Eleazer 
Williams, Dan. Barnes (Methodist), and others of less distinction, all of 
whom labored faithfully, but with varied perseverance for the conver- 
sion of the Iroquois. All, however, were forced to admit that their 
efforts as a whole were unsatisfactory and discouraging. Even subse- 
quent efforts to establish education and Christianity among the Indians, 
while yielding perhaps sufficient results to justify their prosecution, have 
constantly met with discouraging obstacles. 

The advent of the European nations was the forerunner of the down- 
fall of the Iroquois confederacy, and doubtless will lead to the ultimate 
extinction of the race. The French invasion of 1693, together with 
that of three years later, cost the confederacy half its warriors. Their 
allegiance to the British (with the exception of the Oneidas), in the rev- 
olutionary war proved to be a dependence on a falling power, and this 
in connection with the relentless vengeance of the American colonists 
broke up the once powerful league, and either scattered its members to 
a large extent upon the friendly soil of Canada, or left them at the 
mercy of the state and general government, which consigned them to 
reservations with very imperfect provisions for their amelioration. 



CAUSES OF THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 



CHAPTER IV. 

The French and Indian Wars — Causes Leading to Them — EngUsh and French 
Jealousies — Faihire of Lord de Courcelles Expedition against the Mohawks — Corlear 
Saves the French from Destruction — Iroquois Seek a Peace — French Treachery — 
The Peace of Breda — War Renewed — Iroquois ask EngHsh Protection — Invasion of 
Canada — Schenectady Destroyed — The Mohawks show Friendship — English Colonies 
Aroused to Action — Services of John and Peter Schuyler — Frontenac Invades the Mo- 
hawk Country — The Castles Captured — Treaty of Ryswick — Peace Again Restored. 

rROM the death of Champlaiii until the end of the French dominion 
in America, the friendship established by that great explorer between 
his own people and the northern Indians was unbroken, while at the 
same time it led to the unyielding hostility of the Iroquois, and espe- 
cially of the Mohawks, for the latter were the first to suffer a fearful ex- 
perience of the destructive power of European firearms. If truces and 
formal treaties were made between these antagonistic elements, they 
were brief in duration and of little general effect. The Jesuit fathers 
labored zealously, but they made no permanent progress in winning the 
affections of any of the Five Nations. Accepting the English view of 
their influence, they unsettled the savage mind and led to such compli- 
cations as to require from the provincial authorities of New York, in 
1700, an unjustifiable law inflicting the death penalty on every Romish 
priest that should come voluntarily into the province; but even this 
severe measure did not entirely terminate their work. After the acces- 
sion of the English, the peaceful relations held with the Iroquois by the 
Dutch were continued, but strife and jealousy incessantly embroiled the 
English and ultimately led to a terrible war, which lasted until 1763 
(with brief intervals of peace), and delayed for many years the settle- 
ment of the Mohawk valley. 

The causes which led to the protracted contentions between the 
French and the Iroquois Indians are clear and distinct. They began 
with the unwarranted invasion of Champlain and his allied savages of 
the Mohawk region, which engendered an hostility that eventually cost 



32 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

hundreds of lives in battle, together with the ruthless slaughter of an 
equal or greater number who were innocent of warlike intent. The real 
struggle of the period, known as the French and Indian war, began soon 
after the conquest of the New Netherlands by the English, and ended 
only with the extinction of the French power in Canada, but it is only 
of the series of the conflicts called in history by that title that the pres- 
ent chapter is designed to treat. 

In the hope of avenging past injuries and to put an end to future 
invasions, the people of New France resolved, in 1665, to send against 
the Mohawks a force that should not return until their enemies should 
be swept from the face of the earth, but it was not until the month of 
January, 1666, that Lord de Courcelles, with a force of less than six hun- 
dred men, started on this expedition. It was his purpose to destroy 
the Mohawk nation, and therefore the route of travel was through the 
valley of Lake Champlain, but the severity of the winter was so great 
that the invading force, being reduced to distress, was obliged to aban- 
don the enterprise. The Mohawks and Oneidas, becoming aware of the 
projected invasion and of the straits in which the invaders were placed, 
determined upon vengeance, and were only restrained through the po- 
tent influence of Arent Van Corlear, one of the settlers at Schenectady, 
whose urgent intercessions turned the avengers from their purpose and 
saved the defenceless Frenchmen from destruction. 

The magnitude of De Courcelles's expedition, although it resulted in 
no disaster to the Mohawks, prompted the Iroquois to sue for peace, 
and a treaty with the French power was concluded in May, June and 
July, 1666, by the Mohawks, Oneidas and Senecas. During the treaty 
negotiations, however, the Mohawks committed an outrage on the Fort 
St. Anne garrison, and this led the governor of Canada (M. de Tracy), 
to chastise the offending tribe. In the following September he invaded 
tlie Mohawk country ; the villages and crops were destroyed, and the 
natives only found refuge in flight. In July, 1667, however, the peace 
of Breda, between Holland, England and France, was signed, and this 
defined the boundaries of possessions of each power in America, and 
for a time maintained a peace with the Iroquois, but it was of short du- 
ration, for in 1669 we find the French and Iroquois again at war. In. 
April, 1672, a change in the administration in Canada was made, fol- 



DE NONVILLE AND FRONTENAC. 35 

lowed by another peace, concluded in 1673, which was maintained for 
about eleven years, but in 1684 another rupture took place. 

At this time M. de la Barre was governor of Canada and New France 
and Colonel Dongan governor of New York. The former led an inef- 
fectual expedition against the Senecas, but was soon superseded by 
Marquis de Nonville, the latter bearing special instructions from his sov- 
ereign to preserve peace with the Indians This he found impossible, 
and he therefore planned a powerful expedition into the Iroquois coun- 
try in 1687, destroying numerous villages and all the growing crops, 
while the Indians fled before the approaching enemy and sought pro- 
tection of the governor of New York. This was promised, with advice 
that no peace be again concluded with the French. De Nonville, how- 
ever, called a council of the Iroquois chiefs and sachems with the view 
of piece, but treachery on the part of the French commander so enraged 
the whole confederacy that in July, 1689, they made a descent upon 
Montreal, burned and destroyed property, massacred men, women and 
children, and returned with twenty-six prisoners, most of whom were 
burned at the stake. 

The French colony was now in a pitiable condition, but an unex- 
pected and welcome change was at hand. The divided counsels of the 
English colonists, growing out of the revolution in the mother country, 
by which William, Prince of Orange, was placed on the throne, gave a 
new aspect to affairs. The Count de Frontenac was again appointed 
governor of New France (May 21, 1689), and arrived in October. He 
made an earnest effort to negotiate a peace with the Iroquois, but fail- 
ing, determined to terrify them into neutrality. For this purpose he 
fitted out three expeditions, one against New York, one against Con- 
necticut, and the third against other parts of New England. 

The first and principal expedition was directed against Schenectady, 
which was sacked and burned on the night of February 8 and 9, 
1690. A band of French and Indians, after a tedious march along the 
course of West Canada creek and Mohawk, fell upon the doomed and 
unprotected village. But two houses were spared, also fifty or sixty old 
men, women and children, and about twenty Mohawks. This was done 
as it is said, "in order to show them" (the Mohawks) "that it was the 
English and not they against whom the grudge was entertained." The 

5 



34 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

French made a rapid but disastrous retreat, suffering from the winter's 
severity and also from the harassing pursuit of their maddened enemies. 
This and other assaults at exposed points so disheartened the people 
at Albany that they resolved to retire to New York ; and their course 
was altered only by a delegation of the Mohawks ^ which reproached 
them for their torpidity, urging them to a courageous defence of their 
homes. This heroic conduct of the Mohawks awakens admiration. 
Notwithstanding French intrigues and Jesuitical influence, combined with 
the exasperating apathy of the English, who appeared willing to sacri- 
fice their savage, yet in this instance noble allies, they adhered to their 
earl)' allegiance. 

Repeated invasions by the French and Indians at last awakened the 
English colonists to the conviction that they must more thoroughly 
unite in their efforts against the enemies. ' A convention was accord- 
ingly held in New York in 1690, constituted of delegates from Massa- 
chusetts, Connecticut and New York, at which it was resolved to com- 
bine their strength for the subjugation of Canada. The first named 
province engaged to equip a fleet and attack the French possessions by 
water, while the other two should combine their forces and assault Mon- 
treal and the forts upon the Sorel river. Through lack of efficient or- 
ganization, and the failure of expected supplies, the expedition was 
abandoned. During the same year, however, John Schuyler, grand- 
father of Philip Schuyler of Revolutionary fame, having organized a 
band of about one hundred and twenty " Christians and Indians," made 
an incursion into the French possessions and destroyed much property, 
as well as routing and killing the inhabitants of the villages ; and in the 
summer of 1691, Major Peter Schuyler led an expedition into the same 
region, among his forces being eighty Mohawk warriors. 

The Iroquois continued their incursions against the French and were, 
perhaps, more dreaded by the latter than were the English. The peo- 
ple of New France were prevented from properly tilling their lands, and 
when crops were grown they were frequently destroyed by the invaders. 
The fur trade,- in which the French were actively engaged, was also nearly 

' Annals of Tryon County, appendix. Note A. 

2 It IS interesting in this connection to note the prices which ruled in the Indian trade at Fort 
Orange (Albany) and Montreal in 1689: 



DECLARATION OF PEACE. 35- 

ruined by the Iroquois, who took possession of the passes between them 
and their western allies, and cut off the traders. 

These forays exasperated Count de Frontenac to such a degree that 
he determined, if possible, to bring them to a final close. He therefore 
planned an expedition against the Mohawks to be executed in the mid- 
winter of 1693, and he made his preparations with the greatest secrecy. 
Having collected a force of nearly seven hundred P'rench and Indians, 
he cautiously though rapidly passed Lake Chaniplain on the ice, de- 
scended into the Mohawk country, and surprised and captured three of 
their castles, ^ meeting with resistance only at the last, and retreated 
with about three hundred prisoners. 

Major Peter Schuyler, ever the firm friend of the Mohawks, hastily 
gathered a party of Albany militia and Indians, five hundred in number, 
and started in pursuit with such activity that the fugutives in their haste 
suffered greatly for food, being compelled, as it is said, " to eat the 
leather of their shoes." They escaped, however, with a loss of eighty 
killed and thirty- three wounded. In 1695 another strong force of 
French and Indians invaded the Onondaga territory, and although by 
far the most formidable invasion the Iroquois had thus far suffered, it 
was almost fruitless in other results than the destruction of villages and 
crops. 

The treaty of Ryswick was concluded in September, 1697, but while- 
it established peace between the French and English, it practically lefl 
unsettled the status of the Iroquois. The French insisted on the pro- 
tection of their own Indian allies, but were unwilling to include the Iro- 

The Indian pays £or at Fort Orange, at Montreal, 

Eight pounds of powder One Beaver Four Beavers 

AGun Two " Three " 

40 pounds of lead — -One " Four " 

Blanket of red cloth _ One " Two 

Four shirts-.- _ _ One " Two " 

Six pairs of stockings _ - _One '* Two " 

Six quarts of Rum One '* Six *' 

It is a rather amusing indication of the prevalent mode of dealing with the foolish natives, that 
while a gun could be purchased for three beavers, it required six to buy a gallon and a half of rum . 

• The three Mohawk castles, so called, -captured by the French, were situated on the south side 
of the Mohawk river; the lower or eastern being at Icanderago, afterwards called Fort Hunter, 
near the junction of the Mohawk and Schoharie rivers, while the central or Canajoharie castle (as 
then called) stood on the hill at the east end of Fort Plain (called by the Indians Ta-raKh-jo.rot:s, 
signifying hill of health), and the third or western castle was in what is now the town of Danube. 
— Schoharie County History, page 26. 



3G HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

quois, and even made preparations to attack them with their whole force. 
The English, on the other hand, as strenuously claimed the same terms 
for their allies, and Earl Bellomont informed Count de Frontenac that 
he would resist any attack on the Iroquois with the entire force of his 
government. This terminated the threats of the enemy. 

Peace being thus established (although the old rivalries continued to 
smoulder) the English left nothing undone to strengthen and render 
enduring the friendship between themselves and the Iroquois. Liberal 
presents were distributed among the chiefs, and five of them were taken 
by Peter Schuyler to London, that they might become impressed with 
the greatness and strength of the government to which they were allied. 
All this, however, did not prevent the Iroquois from making peace with 
the French in September, 1700, and notwithstanding the additional fact 
that they had, less than a month previously, ceded to Great Britain 
their hunting grounds in which they had (to quote the conveyance) 
" subdued the old inhabitants, a thousand miles west of the Niagara, all 
around the lakes." 

On the accession of Anne to the British throne as successor to King 
William, in March, 1702, what has been known as Queen Anne's war 
was soon begun, in which Marlboro won great fame. It continued until 
the treaty of Utrecht, 1 April il, 1713, but though felt in the colonies. 
New York fortunately escaped its bloody consequences. 

1 This treaty " secured the Protestant succession to the British throne : also the separation of 
the French and Spanish crowns, the destruction of Dunkirk, the enlargement of British colonies in 
America, and a full satisfaction from France of the claims of the allied kingdoms, Britain, Holland 
and Germany " 

Fortunately the Five Nations had made a treaty of neutrality (Aug. 4, 1701) with the French in 
Canada, and thus became an impassable barrier against the savages from the St. Lawrence. 
— Lossing. 



FRENCH AND ENGLISH RIVALRY. 37 



CHAPTER V. 

Rivalry between tlie French and English--Relative Justice o£ their Claims — How 
<3efined by Sir William Johnson — Both Nations make treaties with the Iroquois — Pro- 
visions of the treaty of Ryswiok — French Encroachments beyond the Treaty line — War 
Declared in 1774 — French Outrages in the Mohawk Country — Treaty of peace at Aix- 
la-Chapelle — The Situation — The Albany Convention — King Hendrick's Speech — Prep- 
aration for War — Expeditions of 1755 — Services of General Johnson — Shirley's Con- 
duct — Battle at Lake George — Death of Hendrick — Distinction of Sir William Johnson. 

IT was during the peace that followed the treaty of Utrecht, that what 
may be termed the permanent occupation of the upper Mohawk 
valley was begun by a number of Palatinates, who, in 171 1, dissatis- 
fied with their condition on the Hudson, made their way to the Schoharie 
to occupy lands promised by Queen Anne. To be strictly accurate, 
however, it should be stated that the Mohawk valley in the neighbor- 
hood of Schenectady at least, was settled as early as 1661, under the 
direction and patronage of Arent Van Corlear, who acquired title from 
the Mohawks, and whose purchase was confirmed, in 1684, by Governor 
Dongan. The destruction of this settlement by the French and Canadian 
Indians on the night of the 8th and 9th of February, 1690, has been 
described in the preceding chapter, and hence we only make a brief 
and passing reference while speaking of the rival claims of the English 
and French to the Mohawk territory. It is evident that the claims of 
the English were based upon a much broader foundation of justice than 
those of France, and both should have been, in some degree, subject to 
the right of the Iroquois as the " original proprietors." These rights 
were subsequently defined by Sir William Johnson in the following 
language : " The hereditary domains of the Mohawks extend from near 
Albany to the Little Falls (Oneida boundary) and all the country from 
thence eastward, etc., to Rcjiohne on Lake Champlain." 

While the French were in possession of New France their influence 
over all the Indians within its limits was paramount, and they even dis- 
puted with the English the alliance of the latter with the Iroquois, 



38 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

but whatever may have been the foundation of French claims to the 
territory of Canada, or even to a portion of the present territory of New 
York, they could hardly be recognized as holding any part of the 
Mohawk region. Even admitting that four of the Iroquois nations, in 
1663, concluded a treaty with De Tracy, by which they placed them- 
selves under the protection of the French king, it is evident that the 
Mohawks were not a party to that treaty, and it is also evident that con- 
tinued though occasional and always successful hostilities on the part of 
he French against the Iroquois, followed for years. On the other 
hand, although England in the cession of New Netherlands, acquired 
only the territory previously held by the Dutch, yet she secured the 
firm and lasting allegiance of the Mohawks, a friendship more closely 
cemented by the influence of Sir William Johnson. 

In addition to the foregoing, the original charter of Virginia carried the 
English possessions to the forty-fifth parallel, and later grants extended 
her sovereignty to the St. Lawrence river. 

The treaty of Rysvvick (1697) declared that the belligerents should 
return to their possessions, as each occupied them at the beginning of 
the hostilities, and England put forth the unconditional claim that, at 
the period referred to in the treaty, their Iroquois allies were in the oc- 
cupation by conquest of Montreal and the shores of the St. Lawrence. 
The French government at the time seem to have acknowledged that 
the Iroquois were embraced in the treaty. Thus the two European 
powers wrangled over the country of the Mohawks, which was but a 
little time previously the undisputed dominion of the Iroquois. When 
France disputed the claims of England and appealed to the council at 
Onondaga, a stern, savage orator exclaimed: "We have ceded our 
lands to no one ; we hold them of heaven alone." ' 

Whether so much importance should attach to the treaties in which 
these untutored savages were pitted against the intelligent Europeans, 
cither French or English, as has often been ascribed to them, is un- 
questionable ; especially when we consider the methods often adopted 
in later years to induce the Indians to sign away their domain. Be 
this as it may, it is now generallj' believed that the intrusion of France 
upon the possessions of the Mohawks in the valley of Lake Champlain, 



BEGINNING OF THE FRENCH AND ENGLISH WAK. 39 

"at the sacrifice of so much blood and treasure, justice and the restraints 
and faith of the treaties, were subordinate to the lust of power and ex- 
pediency." 1 

The encroachment by the French upon the territory of the English 
and their allies (the Iroquois), was one of the chief causes of the French 
and Indian war. As early as the year 173 1, the surveyor-general of 
the Canadas made a complete survey of the entire Champlain valley, 
including both the New York and Vermont shores and also Ticonderoga, 
and not content with this geographical aggression, he extended his 
work so as to include both sides of the St. Lawrence river nearly to Lake 
Ontario. The territory thus surveyed was divided into vast tracts, and 
granted as "seigniories" to various proprietors, either as rewards for 
service to the French crown, or for other considerations. Acting under 
the assumed authority of ownership a small number of the grantees at- 
tempted to actually occupy their lands, but the Canadian government, 
observing that war between France and England would soon take place, 
prepared for such an event by possessing themselves of the strongest 
points in the Champlain Valley, and erecting suitable fortifications. 
The acknowledged key to the country was Fort St. Frederick, now 
Crown Point, which the French occupied in 173 1. 

Ticonderoga was near and to the southward, and here also a fortress 
was constructed. In the western part of the province of New York other 
defences were also established ; this being done with the consent of the 
Senecas, whose confidence the wily Frenchman and their Jesuit asso- 
ciates had fully gained. In the interior of the Mohawk country, how- 
ever, no preparation for war was made other than accomplished through 
the influence of Sir William Johnson, whose advent to the Mohawk Val- 
ley antedated the beginning of hostilities by only ten years. 

In March, 1744, war was declared between Great Britain and France, 
and the former power at once prosecuted measures for the conquest of 
the French possessions. The colonies of New York and New England 
united in an expedition to co-operate with the fleet under Commodore 
Warren in an attack on the fortress of Louisburg, which capitulated in 
June, 1745. This was followed by the descent upon Hoosic village 
whose garrison was forced to surrender, leaving the settlements all the 



iO HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

way to Albany open to the enemy. More than twent}' other minor 
expeditions were fitted out by the French from Fort St. Frederick, to 
fall upon the frontier EngHsh settlements and burn, pillage and slaugh- 
ter. It is little wonder, therefore, that the inhabitants of New York 
viewed this fortress as a standing and constant menace, and the follow- 
ing statements will give an idea of the character of some of the maraud- 
ing parties and their bloody success : 

" May 24, 1746. A party of eight Abenakis has been fitted out who 
have been in the direction of Corlear (Schenectady), and have returned 
with some prisoners and scalps." 

" May 28, 1746. A party of Abenakis struck a blow near Albany 
and Corlear, and returned with some scalps." 

"August 10. Chevalier de Repentigny arrived at Quebec and re- 
ported that he had made an attack near Corlear and took eleven prisoners 
and twenty-five scalps." 

We forbear further addition to this terrible recital Who can imagine 
the horrors of a season filled with such scenes ? The colonists seemed 
almost powerless against the enemy — wily, rapid, blood-thirsty, and 
with a knowledge of everj' trail and point of vantage. Colonel Johnson 
sent out two parties against the French and their allies on the 4th of 
August, which made an attack on Chambly but after a successful begin- 
ning they were drawn into an ambush and most of them killed or cap- 
tured. 

The international contest from 1744 to 1748 had an important object 
in the possession of the Mississippi valley, which the English claimed 
as an extension of their coast discoveries and settlements, and the 
French by the right of occupancy, their forts already extending from 
Canada to Louisiana, and forming " a bow, of which the English colon- 
ies were the string." At the last mentioned date the English colonies 
contained more than a million inhabitants while the French had only 
about sixty thousand. The Iroquois would not engage in this strife 
until 1746, when they were disappointed at its sudden termination, 
having compromised themselves with their old enemies (the allies of the 
French), now more numerous and dangerous than formerly. The ques- 
tion of Iroquois supremacy was, therefore, renewed in a more intensified 
manner. 



APATHY OP THE ENGLISH 41' 

In April, 1748, was concluded the ineffective, if not actually shame- 
ful treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, and while it was a virtual renewal of the 
treaties of Ryswick and Utrecht, it left unsettled tlie questions above 
alluded to, with others of equal importance to the colonies, and the 
fortresses of Louisburg and Crown Point were returned to the French 
without a protest. 

Opposed and embarrassed by political factions, Governor Clinton re- 
signed his office in October, 1753, and was succeeded by Sir Danvers 
Osborne. The same distractions, aggravated by the loss of his wife, 
threw the latter into a state of melancholia which ended in suicide. He 
was succeeded by Lieutenant-Governor James De Lancey, who, in his 
message to the Assembly in the spring of 1754, called attention to re- 
cent French encroachments, and to a request from Virginia for aid to 
resist them. The Assembly voted one thousand pounds to bear its 
share in erecting forts along the frontier. The French, by reason of 
victories in Pennsyluania in 1754, were left in undisputed possession of 
the entire region west of the Alleghanies. The necessity for united 
action by the English colonies was now too apparent to be overlooked ; 
but the old sectional differences tended to prevent harmony in senti- 
ment or action. 

The Iroquois were also to some extent becoming alienated from the 
English, whose apathy and failures they did not relish. 

Under the advice of the British ministry a convention of delegates 
from all the colonial assemblies was held at Albany in June, 1754. The 
object of this meeting was to secure a continued alliance with the Six 
Nations. Governor De Lancey presided, and opened the proceeding? 
with a speech to the Indian chiefs and sachems who were present. A 
treaty was renewed, and the Indians left apparently satisfied. 

Colonel, afterward Sir William Johnson was present at this conven- 
tion and made many valuable suggestions to the delegates. 

He had by this time become well acquainted with the Indian charac- 
ter; had ingratiated himself in their affections, not only among the 
Mohawks, but as well among the Iroquois. He was made by the for- 
mer one of their sachems, having authority in their councils and likewise 
he was created war-chief, and as such frequently assumed the costume 
and habits of the Indians. 



2 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

After the Albany convention had been concluded, but before the 
treaty was finally settled, King Hendrick.^ then highest in authority 
among the Mohawks, addressed the delegates and Indians upon the 
subject of the meeting. His final speech closed as follows : 

" Brethren, we put you in mind, from our former speech, of the de- 
fenceless state of j'our frontiers, particularly of this city and Schenec- 
tady, and of the country of the Five Nations You told us yesterday 
that you were consulting about securing both. We beg that you will 
resolve upon something speedily. You are not safe from danger one 
day. The French have their hatchets in their hands both at Ohio and 
at two places in New England. We don't know but this very night 
they may attack us. Since Colonel Johnson has been in this city there 
has been a French Indian at his house (Fort Johnson), who took meas- 
ure of the wall around it, and made very narrow observations on every- 
thing thereabouts. We think Colonel Johnson in very great danger, 
because the French will take more than ordinary pains to kill him or 
take him prisoner, both on account of his great interest among us and 
because he is one of our sachems. Brethren, there is an affair about 
which our hearts tremble and our minds are deeply concerned. We 
refer to the selling of rum in our castles. It destroys many, both of 
our old and young people. We are in great fear about this rum. It 
may cause murder on both sides. We, the Mohawks of both castles, 
request that the people who are settled around about us may not be 
suffered to sell our people rum. It destroys virtue and the progress of 
religion among us.'"- 

" It was on this occasion," also remarks a contemporary writer of the 
period, "that the venerable Hendrick, the great Mohawk chieftain, pro- 
nounced one of those thrilling and eloquent speeches that marked the 
nobler times of the Iroquois. It excited the wonder and admiration of 

' King Hendrick was bom about the year 1680 and generally dwelt at the upper castle of the 
Mohawk nation, although he resided for a time near the present (1845) residence of Nicholas Yost 
on the north side of the Mohawk, near the Nose. He stood high in the confidence of Sir William 
Johnson, with whom he was engaged in many perilous enterprises against the Canadian French ; 
and under whose command he fell in the battle of Lake George, September 8, 1755. covered with 
glory. He was one of the most active and pagacious sachems of his time. — Schoharie County and 
Border Wars. 

* The governor promised satisfaction to this pathetic appeal, of course ; gave the Indians thirty 
wagon-loads of presents, and the civilized inhabitants went on selling their gallons of rum for 
beaver skins. And the Indians have often been cursed for their intemperance. 



ADVENT OF BRADDOCK. 43^ 

those who listened, and commanded the highest encomiums wherever it 
was read. In burning words he contrasted the supineness and imbe- 
cility of the English with the energies of the PVench policy. His hoary 
head and majestic bearing attached dignity and force to his utterances. 
' We,' he exclaimed, ' would have gone and taken Crown Point, but you 
hindered us.' He closed his philippic with this overwhelming rebuke: 
' Look at the French, they are men, They are fortifying everywhere. 
But you, and we are ashamed to say it, you are like women — bare and 
open without any fortifications." 

Meanwhile, at the suggestion of the Massachusetts delegates to the 
convention, a plan for the union of the colonies was taken into consid- 
eration. The suggestion was favorably received and a committee of 
one from each colony was appointed to draw plans for the purpose, the 
fertile mind of Benjamin Franklin having already suggested a plan 
which was adopted. 

It was the forerunner of our federal constitution ; but the colonial 
assemblies rejected it, deeming that it encroached on their liberties, 
while the home government rejected it, claiming that it granted too 
much power to the people. 

Though England and France were nominally at peace, the frontier 
was still distressingly harassed by hordes of Indians let loose by the 
French, and the colonists continued their appeal to the ministry. 

While the latter were hesitating, the Duke of Cumberland, then cap- 
tain-general of the British armies, sent over early in 1755 General Ed- 
ward Braddock, with a detachment from the army in Ireland. 

He soon afterward met the colonial governors at Alexandria and 
measures were devised for the protection of the colonies. ^ 

For this purpose four expeditions were planned by General Braddock 
(^77S)> the first to effect the reduction of Nova Scotia; the second to 
recover the Ohio valley; the third to expel the French from Fort Ni- 
agara and then form a junction with the Ohio expedition, and the fourth 
to capture Crown Point. The first of tliese expeditions was entirely 
successful ; the second, under command of Braddock himself, was 

^ By special request of Braddock, Colonel William Johnson was present at this meeting. He was 
then appointed superintendant of Indian affairs, " with full power to treat with the confederate 
nations, and secure them and their allies to the British interest." Braddock also advanced two 
thousand pounds for the furtherance of the latter object.— Stone's Life of Sir William Johnson. 



44 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

(chiefly through his foHy) disastrous in the extreme. He nec^lected to 
send out scouts, as repeatedly counselled by Washington, and when 
within a few miles of Fort Du Quesne, the army was surprised by the 
concealed enemy and only saved from destruction by Washington, who, 
upon the fall of Braddock, assumed command and conducted the retreat. 
The expedition against Fort Niagara commanded by General Shirley, 
governor of Massachusetts, was also unsuccessful, and many of his force 
left him, after liearing of Braddock's defeat. 

The army gathered for the capture of Crown Point was assembled at 
Albany, and its command entrusted to Colonel William Johnson, who, 
for the purpose of the expedition, had been elevated to the rank of 
major-general. His force comprised the milita and volunteers from 
New York and the New England provinces, added to which was a strong 
body of his faithful Mohawk warriors, headed by their famous chief, 
King Hendrick. Johnson proceeded northward and occupied positions 
at Fort Edward and Lake George,^ expecting reinforcements from the 
western nations of the Iroquois ; but in this he was disappointed. Gen- 
eral Shirley, 2 in marching against Fort Niagara, had spread dissensions 
among the confederates, telling them that Johnson was his subordinate 
and subject to his orders; that his ofifice of superintendent of Indian affairs 
was but nominal, and that the warriors would best serve their own in- 
terests by joining his army. These things were related to Johnson by 
chief Hendrick in explanation of the absence of the promised aid of the 
western Indians. Their assistance had been assured at a council of the 
chiefs and sachems held with the Onondagas prior to the organization 

* The former name of this lake, applied by Champlain, was *'Lac St. Sacrament." in honor of 
the day of his first visit to its shores. General Johnson, on the occasion of camping at the lake with 
his troops, changed the name to " Lake George." in honor of Georgre III, then the British sover- 
eign. 

2 The pecular action of Gov. Shirley on this occasion is best explained by General Johnson in 
the report sent by him to the Board of Trade, and written from the camp at Lake George. The 
report is as follows: " Governor Shirley, soon after his arrival at Albany, on his way to Oswego, 
grew dissatisfied with my proceedings and emploj'ed one Lydius, of that place — a man whom he 
knew, and whom I told him, was extremel}' obnoxious to me, and the very man whom the Indians 
had in their public meetings so warmly complained of, to oppose my interest and management 
with them. Under this man, several others were employed. These persons went to the Indian 
castles, and by^bribes, keeping them constantly feasting and drunk; calumniating my character ; 
depreciating my commission, authority and management; in short, by the most licentious and 
abandoned proceedings, raised such confusion among the Indians, particularly the two Mohawk 
castles, that their sachems were under the utmost consternation, etc." 




O- ^V~Z^^7^ ^^^f^^^^y^^^-^:^^^^ 



SUCCESS OF JOHNSON. 45 

of the expedition. The total Indian force which accompanied this ex- 
pedition amounted to two hundred and fifty men, all of whom were 
under the special charge of General Johnson, who was known among 
them as " Warraghiyaghey." The militia and volunteers were under 
command of General Lyman, and amounted, when all assembled in the 
field, to about 4,000 men. 

A detail of the events of the battle that followed cannot be considered 
an essential part of this narrative, although it took place within the 
Mohawk country. At the beginning of the conflict King Hendrick was 
slain, and Johnson severly wounded He retired from the field after 
having turned the command over to General Lyman. As a matter of 
fact it should be stated that General Johnson held supreme command 
during this expedition, while General Lyman was his faithful aid ; but 
the Indians of the army required careful and discreet attention to make 
their services available, and as Johnson was their friend, he gave them 
his special attention throughout the engagement, while the immediate 
command of the troops devolved upon General Lyman and the other 
officers of rank. 

General Johnson, however, directed the various maneuvers through 
which success was finally attained. 1 

The French regulars, commanded by Dieskau, fought with great hero- 
ism, but the Canadian Indians were of little assistance, and were dispersed 
by a few shots. The Senecas, who had been induced to join the French 
standard, on seeing themselves opposed by their own brethren, the Mo- 
hawks, discharged their weapons in the air and abandoned the conflict. 
Dieskau, the French general, was wounded and disabled, but refused to 
be carried from the field, and ordered his subordinate, Montrueil, to 
assume command and make the best retreat possible. The French were 
put to flight in such confusion that all their baggage and ammunition 
was left behind for the victors. Their loss amounted to about four 
hundred and fifty, while that of the English and Mohawks was nearly 
one hundred less. 

The French were partially paralyzed by this defeat, but Gen. Johnson 
was charged with neglect of a grand opportunity. It was said that he 
might have taken Fort St. Frederick and Ticonderoga, while, on the 
other hand, he spent the summer in erecting Fort William Henry, at the 



46 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

head of Lake George. The Mohawks, fearing an invasion of their vil- 
lages by the Canada Indians, were permitted to return to their homes. 
The services of General Johnson on this occasion were rewarded with a 
baronetcy, his office of superintendent of Indian affairs was confirmed, 
and he was granted the sum of five thousand pounds. From this event 
was acquired the title by which he was ever afterwards known — " Sir 
William Johnson." 



CHAPTER VI. 



French and English War Continued — Results of the Campaigns in 1756 — French 
Successes in that and Succeeding Years — The Iroquois Divided — Johnson's Eflbrts to 
Unite Them — Webb's Disgraceful Conduct — The Mohawk Valley Invaded — Palatine 
Village Destroyed — Abercrombie's Neglect and Inefficiency- -Campaigns of 1757-58 
— English Successes — French Reverses — -Johnson's Achievements — Extinction of 
the French Power m America. 

STRANGE as it may appear, after the hostilities described in the 
preceding chapter, it was not until the following summer that 
war was formally proclaimed between Great Britain and France. 

Three principal campaigns were organized in 1756; one against Fort 
Niagara with six thousand men, the second against Fort Du Quesne 
with three thousand men, and the third, by far the largest army yet 
assembled in the country, a force of ten thousand troops designed for 
the reduction of Crown Point, the occupation of the Champlain valley, 
and, if necessary, the invasion of Canada. 

General John Winslow was in command of the latter, but was soon 
joined by General Abercrombie with reinforcements from Lord Lou- 
don, governor of Virginia, Abercrombie at once removed the provin- 
cial officers and placed men in their stead men from the regular army, 
who, though versed in tactics, were wholly destitute of a knowledge of 
the methods of conducting military operations in such a region. 
Through the inactivity of the commanding officers nothing was accom- 
plished in the way of taking the French strongholds, while at other 
points the results were equally unsatisfactory, and the campaigns ended, 
with much greater advantage to the French than to the English. 



COWARDICE OF WEBB. 47 

The campaign of 1757 was arranged by the Enghsh in proportions 
equal to its predecessor, while the French army under Montcalm was 
by no means inactive. The latter had by this time not only gained the 
friendship of many of the western Iroquois, but had succeeded in en- 
listing them under the French standard. The league of the Iroquois 
was now so weakened as to have lost much of its power of union, and 
the brethren were no longer averse to warring against each other. In 
fact, at this time a large number of the Iroquois had become settled in 
Canada, chiefly on account of French successes in previous years and 
the constant apathy of the English ; and even the strong influence of 
Sir William was no longer effectual in enlisting them in the cause 
which he represented. The greater part of the Mohawk nation, how- 
ever, remained true to Sir William, their adopted chief, and were, with 
a fragment of other nations, factors in this campaign and that of the 
follovving year. Instead of being aggressors, the English officers ap- 
peared to prefer a mere defense. Their strong points in this province 
were at Fort William Henry and Fort Edward ; the former garrisoned 
by Colonel Munro with five hundred men, and supported by seventeen 
hundred troops in an entrenched camp. General Webb was at Fort 
Edward, only fifteen miles away, with four thousand effective men. 
Munroe therefore felt strong in his position, but when Montcalm laid siege 
to the fort and assistance became necessary, and was solicited, the 
cowardly Webb ^ withheld it, and even suggested that Munro should 
make terms of surrender with the French. Sir William Johnson with 
his Mohawk warriors and militia started to relieve the besieged garrison, 
but the commander in charge ordered his return. The natural and only 
result was the surrender of Fort William Henry, followed by the indis- 
criminate slaughter of a number of the prisoners, although, in justice to 
Montcalm, it must be said he did all in his power to prevent it. Fort 
William Henry was totally destroyed and its stores and munitions cap- 
tured ; and this with a loss to the French of only fifty-three men. 

1 Another evidence of the consummate cowardice of General Webb was made apparent in his con- 
duct at the German Flats, in the Mohawk valley. Two days before the surrender at Oswego Webb 
had been sent to the relief of that position. On the 20th day of August following, Sir William 
Johnson with two battalions of militia and three hundred Indians was sent to support Webb. At 
the Oneida carrying place news was received of the fall of Oswego, whereupon the terrified Webb, 
*' fancying he already beheld his own scalp dangling from the waist of some brawny savage," 
caused trees to be immediately felled across Wood creek, and fled with his troops to the German 
Flats. 



48 HISTORY OF MONTaOMERY COUNTY. 

Webb at once prepared to retreat to the Hudson. Montcalm had in- 
tended an invasion of the Hudson river region, and the capture of Al- 
bany, but from the fact that his Canadian soldiers were needed at their 
homes to harvest their fields in order to avert a threatened famine, he 
retired satisfied with his success and glory. Meanwhile Loudon had 
had taken a position on Long Island ; the English had been driven 
from the Ohio ; Montcalm had restored the St. Lawrence valley to 
France, and Great Britain and her colonies were not only humiliated 
but were naturally fearful for the future. During the year 1757, there 
was made another disastrous invasion of the beautiful Mohawk valley 
by the French and Indians. At that time there were scattered settle- 
ments all through the vicinity of the river, the pioneers being chiefly 
Germans, or Palatines. They had become thrifty and were possessed 
of dwellings and fairly well tilled fields. They had been sufficiently 
apprised of the threatened invasion, and had they heeded the warnings 
give by the Oneida Indians they might have escaped, at least a part of 
the vengeance that fell so fearfully upon them. General Abercrombie 
too, was negligent in giving protection to the settlers and to the friendly 
Indians, although frequent requests had been made. Before daylight 
on the morning of November 12, the dwellers at the Palatine village 
were aroused by the terrific war-whoop, and immediately three hundred 
Canadians and Indians under Bellettre, attacked each block house. 
Some show of resistance was made, but without avail. The people of 
the village asked for quarter, but no mercy was shown. The dwellings 
were burned and their occupants ruthlessly tomahawked while they 
vainly endeavored to escape. Forty Germans in all were massacred 
and one hundred and fifty others carried away captives. In addition to 
these bloody horrors, the invaders captured large quantities of grain, 
three thousand cattle and as many sheep. This invasion so alarmed 
the settlers of the whole region that the inhabitants living elsewhere in 
the valley sought safety in flight to the settlements at Schenectady and 
Albany, and the villages of Stone Arabia and Cherry Valley became 
almost depopulated. 

At the time this massacre took place Sir William Johnson was con- 
fined to his room by sickness, but through his secretary he at once sent 
word to the Oneidas and Tuscaroras, enquiring of them why they had 



SMALL SUCCESS AND GREATER FAILURE. 49 

not warned the Germans of their danger. The Indians however were 
not at fault, as their warning had been duly given. Abercrombie was 
also addressed from the same source, and a correspondence of some 
warmth was conducted in relation to that officer's neglect of duty. Lord 
Loudon, who was in Albany about that time, was inclined to place the 
blame upon the Iroquois in general, and exhibited a strong desire to 
make war upon them ; but fortunately the influence of Sir William 
Johnson prevailed, thereby averting the misery which would certainly 
have followed. 

Although the campaign of the previous year had been one of disaster 
to the P2nglish, that very fact seemed to infuse a little spirit into the 
ministry, which found public expression chiefly through that gifted 
statesman, William Pitt. A million and a half of people inhabited the, 
British colonies, and an army of some 50,000 men was subject to the 
commands of Abercrombie. Commercial intercourse with the mother 
country was almost untrammeied, and there seems no sufficient reason 
why the French power should not have been extinguished by one grand 
movement. This predominance of the English, however, was consider- 
ably impaired by the fact that the French had gained stronger influence 
over the Indians, and the Canadian population was more concentrated, 
while above all the French cause was under command of by far the most 
brilliant and able men. In the language of a contemporary, " Britain 
had sent to her colonies effete generals, bankrupt nobles and debauched 
parasites of the court. France selected her functionaries from the wisest, 
noblest and best of her people, and therefore, her colonial interests were 
usually directed with sagacity." 

English hostilities began in 1758 with brilliant achievements by the 
rangers under Rogers and Putnam, which did not, however, seriously in- 
fluence the general campaign. As in the preceding year three formid- 
able expeditions were planned, the varied points being Louisburg, Fort 
Du Quesneand Ticonderoga. Louisburg was besieged, and after some 
weeks of vigorous defence, surrendered to the English. The army sent 
against Fort Du Quesne was commanded by General John Forbes, 
through whose dilatory movement it came very near failure; but at 
last the decisive action of Washington restored victory to the English 
arms, and on the 24th of November the French set fire to the defences 
and fled down the Ohio river. 

7 



50 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

The capture of Ticonderoga, however, and the descent upon Mont- 
real was the most important of these campaigns, being indeed the vital 
point in the war. A force of about 7,000 regulars and 9,000 provincials 
and a heavy train of artillery was assembled at the head of Lake George 
by the beginning of July. Unfortunately, however, the command of 
this fine army was given to General James Abercrombie. Judging 
well of his incapacity, Pitt sought to avert the probability of failure by 
the selection of Lord Howe, to whom was given the rank of brigadier- 
general, and he was made the controlling spirit of the e.xpedition. 

Early in tlie morning of July 5th this splendid army embarked upon 
Lake George, and two days later made a landing on Lake Champlain 
at the point that now bears Lord Howe's name. In the first engage- 
ment that took place he fell mortally wounded, and his death destroyed 
all the hope of a successful campaign. On the morning of the 8th Sir 
William Johnson arrived, accompanied by nearly four hundred Mohawks 
and other Indian warriors,^ but at the same time the French army was 
reinforced by the arrival of De Levis and his 400 veterans. He had 
designed another invasion of the Mohawk valley, but had been ordered 
back to join the main body under Montcalm. During the engagement 
which followed, and in which the British were seriously defeated, John- 
son and his Indians were posted on Mount Defiance (then known as 
Sugar Loaf Hill), and from their position were prevented from taking 
an active part in the battle. The details of this sanguinary conflict need 
not here be narrated ; they are emblazoned on the pages of many a his- 
tory. The assault was hopeless from the beginning, and while its 
bloodj'- scenes were being enacted, under the watchful eye of the bril- 
liant Montcalm, Abercrombie looked after the welfare of his own noble 
person amid the security of the saw- mills, two miles from the battle 

' To give to the reader something of an ideao£ the difBculties that attended the gathering of this 
body of Indians, attention is directed to the following extracts from a letter addressed by Sir Wil- 
liam Johnson to General Abercrombie: " Camp in the woods within ten miles of Fort Edward, 
July 5, 175S, six in the moning. 

" Sir : I arrived here last night with near 200 men of the Five Nations and others. Mr. Crogan 
and some of the Indian officers are within a day's march of me with about 100 men, as I hear from 
letters from him." " I set ot¥ from my house last Tuesday with as many as I could there get sober 
to move with me, which were but a few. for liquor was as plenty among them as ditch-water, 
being brought up from Schenectady by their and other squaws as well as whites, and sold to them 
at night in spite of all I could do. These have since joined me by small parties. I assure your ex- 
cellency, no man ever had more trouble than I have had to get them away from the liquor; and if 
the fate of the whole countrj' depended upon my moving a day sooner, I could not do it without 
leaving them behind, and disgusting all the nations, etc." 



AWAKENING OF ENGLISH ENERGY. 51 

field, and before early dawn of the morning of the loth, he had placed 
the length of Lake George between himself and his conquerors. The 
total loss to the British was more than 2,000 men ; of the French, about 
500 men. This terrible and probably unnecessary catastrophe was 
partially offset by the successful siege of Fort Frontenac, which capitu- 
lated to Bradstreet on the 26th of August. 

While Abercrombie thus dallied in contemptible indecision, Mont- 
calm, reinforced with 3,000 Canadians and 600 Indians, was vigilant 
and persistent, striking wherever he could detect a vulnerable point. 
The events thus far recorded seem to indicate an early approaching 
triumph of the French cause in America, but really a dark reverse was 
imminent. Canada was suffering the horrors of famine and was almost 
depopulated of men who had been required to fill the military ranks. 
Montcalm was persistently appealing to the crown for aid, but the 
government could only furnish provisions and ammunition. On the 
other hand the English now appeared to have been stirred to renewed 
action through the zeal of William Pitt, and the year 1759 opened with 
far better prospects of success for the British arms. Changes had been 
made in military affairs ; Abercrombie had been superseded by General 
Amherst, and when the latter appealed to the colonists for militia re- 
inforcements they willingly complied with the request, although they 
were heavily burdened with debt on account of previous expenditures. 

The proposed campaign of the year comprised, in addition to the 
conquest of Ticonderoga, the capture of Fort Niagara and the siege of 
Quebec. On the 7th day of July, General Prideaux was joined by Sir 
William Johnson, between whom there existed warm friendship, quite 
the reverse of the relations between the latter and Abercrombie. It 
was agreed by both officers that Oswego and Fort Niagara were im- 
portant positions, and ought to be taken during the campaign. For 
this purpose Johnson was to assemble as many as possible of the Iro- 
quois and join the expedition under Prideau.x. As early as January 
18, Johnson held a conference with Mohawk and Seneca chiefs ^ at 

' The Senecas were by this time distrustful of the French and wavered between uncertain possi- 
bilities. They desired to be with the victors, and the general result of the previous year had not 
brought to the French arms the success the commanders had promised. Moreover the Indian faith 
in the French had been considerably shaken by treacheries, and many of the savages were anxious- 
to return to their old allegiance. 



52 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Canajoharie castle, his purpose being to call a general council of as many 
of the Iroquois as could be induced to attend, and if possible unite them 
all under his standard. The result was that in April following, another 
council was held at Canajoharie and assurances given by the savages 
of their willingness to join Johnson in the expedition. When he arrived 
at Prideaux's camp, Johnson had in his command no less than 700 
-dusky warriors, as well as a strong force of provincial troops. 

After the surrender of the fort at Niagara, Johnson and his forces re- 
mained in the neighborhood, and also at Oswego, until the 14th of 
October when he departed for Mount Johnson. 

In the Champlain regions the English armies were also successful. 
Montcalm had taken a position at Quebec, to defend the stronghold 
against the assaults of General Wolfe; and there both of these brave 
officers found their graves. General Amherst laid siege to Ticonderoga, 
which was defended by a garrison of 400 men under Boulaniarque. 
The fort was evacuated on July 26, and this was soon followed by the 
withdrawal of the French from Crown Point. 

The domination of France was ended by the fail of Quebec, Sep- 
tember 18, 1759, thus leaving the English masters of all Canada, for 
the surrender of Vaudreuil on the 8th of the next September was an in- 
evitable" result. 

Although hostilities between the two nations had now ceased, a formal 
peace was not established until 1763, when, on the loth of February, 
the treaty of Paris was signed, by which France ceded to Great Britain 
all her possessions in Canada. On the 30th, of July, 1760, Governor 
De Lancey, of New York, suddenly died, and the government passed 
into the hands of Cadwallader Colden, who was commissioned lieuten- 
ant governor in August, 1761. In October of that year General Rob- 
ert Monkton was appointed governor of the province of New York. 



^ISfp 





THE PALATINATES. 53 



CHAPTER VII. 

Eai-ly Settlement of the Mohawk Valley — Van Corlear's Patent — Settlement at 
Schenectady — German Palatinates at Scboharie Creek, at Canajoharie and Palatine 
Village — Their Character and Customs — Located there as a Defense against the 
French Invasions — The Plan not Fully Successful — Sir William Johnson forms the 
Germans into Militia Companies — French and Indian Land Grants — Charters of New 
York and Pennsylvania Compared — The Former a Royal Province — Patents Issued 
Including Lands in Montgomery County. 

I~\ S has been briefly mentioned in one of the preceding chapters, 
/ \ civilized settlement began in the Mohawk valley in 1661, when 
Arent Van Corlear purchased from the Indian proprietors a large tract 
of land in the vicinity of Fort Orange, and another covering the present 
site of Schenectady. In 1684, nearly twenty years after the conquest 
of the Dutch by the English, the purchases made by Corlear were con- 
firmed by Governor Dongan. During the period of the early wars be- 
tween the French and Indians, there was but little attempt at settlement 
in any of the frontiers, such efforts being attended with many hardships 
and great danger. Even Schenectady, protected as it may have been, 
was (as has been narrated), surprised and destroyed by the French and 
Canadian savages in February, 1690. Notwithstanding this fearful 
tragedy, before the lapse of a little more than a score of years another 
attempt was made at the colonization of the valley, and this time too in 
the region farther west, being within the territory afterward formed into 
Montgomery county. 

During the early years of the seventeenth century, Europe was sub- 
jected to a series of religious wars, in which the Romanists were op- 
posed to Protestantism, their determination being to crush the latter 
out of existence. One of the localities seriously affected by this con- 
flict was the Lower Palatinate in Germany ; a province peopled by a 
hardy, though obstinate and ignorant race. To escape persecution this 
people fled from their native country and found temporary refuge in 
England. In 1702 Queen Anne succeeded King William, and the way 



54 HISTOKY OF MONrGONfERY COUNTY. 

was soon provided by which the German refugees were given a home 
in the new world. The first of the Palatinates (as they were called), 
arrived in New York in 1707, followed in 17 10 by a larger number — 
estimated at three thousand. The projectors of the colonization scheme 
intended that the Palatinates should settle in the Mohawk valley, but 
on examination of that region with reference to its adaptability the 
scheme was found to be impracticable, and the emigrants were located 
in the Hudson river countrj'. A portion of the original number, how- 
ever, remained in New York, while many went to Pennsylvania and 
became permanent residents. There were many causes which wrought 
dissatisfaction among the Palatinates in the Hudson river district, chief 
among which was the fact that they were obliged to serve under gov- 
ernment agents ; who were often both tyrannical and dishonest. 

From this and other causes the poor Germans became greatly discon- 
tented with their abode, and many determined to seek homes elsewhere, 
particularly in the region which (as they claimed) Queen Anne had 
promised them. In fact they were so bent in this purpose that the 
authorities were obliged to use force to hold them to their contracts. 
At last the officers in charge became discouraged in their endeavors to 
improve such refractor}' settlers, and therefore permitted them to grati- 
fy their desires, the government hoping the removal might attbrd pro- 
tection against the incursions of the French, and their Indian allies. In 
1712, by permission of the Mohawks, a number of these families located 
on the Schoharie Creek, but later on the}- had disputes concerning their 
land titles. In 1723 colonies of Palatinates moved farther up the Mo- 
hawk and settled at Canajoharie and Palatine. In 1722 a number of 
them purchased lands in the vicinit}' of Fort Hunter, while others set- 
tled on West Canada creek. On the 19th of October, 1723, Stone 
Arabia patent was granted to twenty-seven Palatinate families whose 
members numbered one hundred and twenty- seven. Their lands in- 
cluded 12,700 acres, which were divided into twenty-seven equal parts, 
and laid out into lots to assist in this division. 

The provincial authorities erred in their estimate of the value of the 
German settlers as a means of protection against invasion. On the 
contrary the ver}' character and customs of this people seemed to almost 
invite a h stile attack, and it was not until several years after the arrival 



LAND GRANTS AND CHARTERS. 55 

of Colonel William Johnson that they held any semblance of military 
organization. They were careless of their own interests and reckless of 
their safety, either personal or of property. This was clearly shown 
when in November, 1757, the inhabitants of Palatine village received 
timely warning of an imminent French and Indian attack, but they dis- 
regarded the friendly caution and their hamlet was destroyed and many 
of its people killed or carried into captivity. Notwithstanding the above 
mentioned defect, the Palatines were prosperous, and contributed much 
to the early development and welfare of the Mohawk valley region. 
They increased rapidly in numbers, each succeeding generation being 
an improvement; and in the valley to-day are many of the descendants 
of the original settlers who have reached wealth and distinction. Sir 
William Johnson afterward organized many of these Palatines into mili- 
tia companies, nine of them all told, and he called them together when- 
ever there appeared any reason to expect an invasion. In this way the 
Germans were beneficial in protecting the region, for the mere knowl- 
edge of a regiment of armed militia, together with nearly two hundred 
thDroughly trained Mohawk warriors, and all under command of an 
officer so skillful as Sir William Johnson, had a subduing effect upon 
the ardor of the French and their savage Canadian allies. 

During the period of French and English rivalry in America, both 
powers derived a revenue by the sales and also the more extensive 
" grants " of the lands in their domain. Each, however, required as a 
condition precedent to the full occupation and enjoyment of the terri- 
tory, that the Indian title should first be extinguished by purchase or 
release. The French grants covered such tracts (mainly in the northern 
portion of New York), as were not included in English land charters, 
but with the final overthrow of French power in America the greater 
number of these were annulled, and the lands were afterward sold to 
British subjects, though a few of the original seigniories were confirmed 
to their proprietors through royal grace and clemency. 

The British power in the colony of New York had no real existence 
until after the conquest of the Dutch. In fact the grant to the Duke of 
York was not made until 1664, a year only before the occupation of 
the New Netherlands. The introduction of this subject naturally leads 
us to an examination of the peculiar character of the grant of the prov- 



56 HISTORY OB^ MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ince of New York, and those points in which it differs from almost ail 
otliers on this continent, although they emanated chiefly from the same 
source. No better illustration of this difference can be made than by 
comparing the charters of Pennsylvania and New York. 

The former was granted to William Penn in payment of a debt due 
his father. Admiral William Penn, from the British government. By 
that charter the fee in the province passed to the grantee, subject only 
to the Indian title, which Penn was obliged to extinguish at his own 
cost. This having been done, the patentee was the absolute owner of 
the lands thus granted ; and all emoluments were his own. Of similar 
character also was the charter by which in 1664 Charles II granted to 
his brother James, Duke of York and Albany, the vast territory which 
included all that is now the state of New York. The Duke of York, by 
that grant (and others of later date), became proprietor of the land, with 
the same rights and powers, and subject to the same conditions regard- 
ing Indian titles, as William Penn ; and the patents which were made 
to various sub- proprietors, either to favorites or for considerations, be- 
tween 1664 and 1685, by the duke, were made from the same relative 
position as Penn occupied during his proprietorship. 

In 1685, however, the Duke of York himself became king of Great 
Britian, and as his charter naturally merged in the crown, the govern- 
ment of his possessions changed from a proprietary one to a " royal 
province." Instead of being governor of the colony, the king held the 
the power only of appointing that functionary, and thus indirect!)' con- 
trolling its affairs, but still receiving specified revenues from its land 
sales. 

Little was done in the way of granting land in the province of New 
York earlier than the first quarter of the seventeenth century, although 
under the duke's title some grants were made even before he became 
king. But after the year 1734, and particularly after the English and 
French were really contending for supremacy in America, the govern- 
ment disposed of much of the available territory of the province, and 
it is a noticeable fact that by far the greater part of the early land grants 
included portions of old Tryon county, though as yet in possession of 
the Mohawks. An explanation is found in the fact that this region was 
under the special control of Sir William Johnson. His influence among 



JOHNSON'S LAND OPERATIONS. 57 

the Mohawk Indians is surprising to all who do not consider the rela- 
tions that existed between himself and the red men, and the great value 
of the presents he made them. We know, indeed, that during the last 
score of years of Sir William's life, the IVIohawks were to a large degree 
dependent upon his bounty for their support, and under such circum- 
stances we are not surprised to learn that for a merely nominal consid- 
eration he could induce them to part with such of their domain as lie or 
his favorites desired to possess. It has been asserted that the baronet 
secured the Indian title to the immense tract known as the royal grant 
from King Hendrick as the result of a dream, but while many doubt 
this story, its narration suggests the extraordinary influence of Sir Will- 
iam over the Mohawk nation. According to the records, the royal 
grant embraced ninety-three thousand acres of land lying between 
East and West Canada creeks, and north of the Mohawk river, and was 
patented to Sir William Johnson by letters issued April i6, 1765. King 
Hendrick was killed in September, 1755, ten years previously; and yet 
it may be true that the old chief released the Indian title long before 
his death, and the purchase thus made was confirmed by the king ten 
years afterward. 

The titles of many of the old land grants are still preserved and are 
occasionally referred to in modern conveyances. The reader will of 
course understand that all these grants were made prior to the revolu- 
tion, but though issued during the British dominion, many were after- 
ward confirmed by the state authorities, while the other portion was 
confiscated and sold as the property of enemies. These persons were 
called tories, and though they did not in all cases bear arms against 
American independence, their conduct was sufficiently inimical to just- 
ify confiscation. The most important instance of this kind was found 
in Johnson Hall and the surrounding estate. It was sold by the state 
authorities, and was finally purchased by the ancestor of the present 
Wells family, in whose possession it still remains. 

Beginning soon after 1700, and thence throughout the years down to 
the outbreak of the revolutionary war, there was granted to various in- 
dividuals and companies an aggregate of more than a thousand square 
miles of land in what afterward became Montgomery county ; and while 
these many patents had a bearing on the early history of this region, 
a 



58 HISTORY OF MONTGOiMERY COUNTY. 

further reference to them at this time is not necessary, as they are made 
a part of the history of the towns in which they were respectively sit- 
uated. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON, BARONET. 

A CONDENSED HISTORY OF THE LIFE OF THE FOUNDER OF JOHNSTOWN. 

I — lAVING made frequent reference to that remarkable man known 
I 1 first as William Johnson, land agent; then as Colonel Johnson ; 
later as General Johnson, and finally as Sir William, we now propose a 
brief review of the leading events of his life, though we shall hardly ex- 
pect to do justice to the most eminent character in the civil and mili- 
tary record of the province of New York, being limited to a mere out- 
line of his illustrious career. 

William Johnson, the son of Christopher and Anne (Warren) John- 
son, was born in county Down, Ireland, in the year 1715. His uncle, 
Sir Peter Warren, had married an American woman, and became pos- 
sessed of an extensive tract of land in the Mohawk valley. It contained 
14,000 acres (originally granted in 1735 to Charles Williams) and lo- 
cated between the Mohawk and Schoharie rivers, in what is now the 
town of Florida. In 1738 William Johnson came hither to serve as su- 
perintendent of this estate, whose development was of great importance 
to its proprietor, since the purchase was a speculation from which he 
had great hope of financial profit. With this view young Johnson, un- 
der the direction of his uncle, cleared part of the land, putting it under 
cultivation, and also surveyed the entire tract, dividing it in a manner 
that would attract settlers of limited means. An important feature in 
this work was the erection of a mill. He also established himself in 
trade, a store being necessary to public convenience, and thus extended 
every inducement that could assist the new settlement. Later on, in 
view of the hostility between the British and French, and as well be- 



SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 59 

tween the Iroquois Indians and their savage enemies in Canada, he 
erected a fortress which was called " Fort Johnson," on whose site Fort 
Hunter was afterward built. This was his home for several years, and 
from this point all his business operations were extended ; but while 
doing full justice to his patron he omitted no opportunity to advance his 
personal interests, and early won that reputation for fair dealing which 
was always so prominent a feature in his character. 

Such a life could not but render the young land agent familiar with 
the Indians. He adapted himself to their habits and language, and 
gained their confidence and enduring friendship. His intercourse with 
the Mohawks rendered him popular with the entire Six Nations, who 
tlienceforth regarded him as their friend and protector. As a result he 
had no difficulty in acquiring Indian titles to such land as he desired, 
and he was also serviceable to his friends in procuring similar favors. To 
such a degree was this acquisition extended that at the time of his death 
he was the owner of various tracts in the country of the Mohawks, and 
also in other western nations of the confederacy, to the enormous extent 
of more than 173,000 acres. 

The young land agent, like most adventurers, was unmarried, but he 
soon employed a housekeeper, a comely German girl, named Catherine 
Wisenberg, whom he afterwards married ^. She became the mother of 
three children, one son (John) and two daughters, one of whom became 
the wife of his nephew, Col. Guy Johnson, and the other the wife of 
Colonel Daniel Claus. After the death of his wife (the precise date of 
which is unknown) Johnson, who had then become colonel, took as 
housekeeper Molly Brant, sister of Joseph Brant, the famous Mohawk 
chief She bore him eight children, each of whom was abundantly 
provided for in the baronet's will ; but as his entire estate was after- 
wards confiscated and sold, none of his heirs ever possessed their inher- 
itance. 

It was not until George Clinton 2 became governor of the province of 
New York that this " Mr. Johnson " became at all prominent in public 

1 This marriage ceremony was performed by Mr. Barkley, the Episcopal minister residing at 
Fort Hunter, where he officiated in the stone church built by direction of Queen Anne for the 
Mohawk Indians. (Yates) 

2 This George Clinton is not to be confounded with our patriotic governor of the same name. 



60 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

affairs. He had been previously occupied with the details of business, 
but with Governor Clinton he appears to have formed an intimate 
friendship. About this time (1742) he moved from the Warren tract 
to the north side of the Mohawk river, locating at a place named by him 
"Mount Johnson," where he erected a substantial stone mansion, now 
owned and occupied by Ethan Akin. In 1745 Johnson was appointed 
one of the justices of the peace of Albany county, an appointment which 
was the recognition of services among the Indians, holding the latter firm 
in their allegiance, and thus counteracting their preference of the French 
standard, a natural result of the Jesuit influence. 

So highly appreciated, indeed, were these services that in 1746 he 
was appointed superintendent of Indian affairs in the entire province, a 
duty which extended through a vast territory. He was, however, so 
well known to all the Iroquois that he had their confidence and was 
really the object of their admiration, a natural result of his uniform 
honesty as well as decision of character. Such indeed was his popu- 
larity that the Mohawks adopted him into their nation, making him a 
chief with the title of Warre-haha^. Four years later (1750) opposition 
was created against Colonel Johnson. He was falsely accused of using 
his influence for selfish ends, and while this charge was never sustained 
it so embarrassed him that he resigned the superintendency of Indian 
affairs; nor would he again accept the office when subsequently 
requested to resume its duties, until he yielded to Braddock's solicita- 
tion. 

The title of " Colonel Johnson " first appeared in 1746 in correspon- 
dence which he held with Governor Clinton, and soon afterwards he 
was ordered to organize the militia for frontier defence. In obedience 
to this commission he formed the Germans and other settlers into militia 
companies ; and thus the former land agent, now known as " Colonel 
Johnson," having this force under his command, together with his 
Indian allies, established a formidable barrier against the so dreaded 
French invasions. 

In 1750 Colonel Johnson received a still higher honor, being ap- 
pointed a member of the governor's council, a body whose decisions 
controlled the highest public interests. His opinions in its deliberations 

* Johnson's Indian name is differentlyigiven in a preceding chapter. 



SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 61 

had a peculiar value because of his familiarity with Indian affairs, and 
here he proved eminently useful. As an acknowledgment of his 
services, and also as a compensation for ad\ances and expenditures 
made for the public benefit among the Indians, Colonel Johnson was 
voted by the council a belt of land two miles in width surrounding On- 
ondaga lake, and including, of course, the site of Syracuse, whose salt 
springs had even then attracted attention. 

We now reach that interval of almost peaceful nature which preceded 
the last struggle between the French and the British, and Colonel John- 
son improved this opportunity to advance the welfare of his estates, 
which were rapidly increasing in extent as well as in value; but he 
also found time to elevate the condition of those around him, and espe- 
cially to promote the civilization and education of his India,n depend- 
encies. He became a patron of the mission schools and placed Joseph 
Brant, then one of the most promising Mohawk youths, at the Indian 
school in Lebanon. His prominence in public affairs, however, contin- 
ued, for he, like all other of prophetic ken, foresaw the approaching 
crisis. 

Jealousy is the inevitable penalty of public service, and the commis- 
sioners of Indian affairs were envious of his influence among the Iro- 
quois. The Indians, too, became discontented and inclined to rebel 
against the power that restrained them ; they called loudly for the re- 
instatement of theirold superintendent, and on this point King Hendrick 
and his brother, Abraham, were clamorous. In obedience to this 
request, Johnson submitted a report to the governor on the government 
of the Six Nations, with suggestions for observance. He also placed 
the militia of the province in condition for active service. 

In 1755 the final conflict for supremacy in America was begun be- 
tween England and France, and immediately we find Colonel Johnson 
foremost in every military expedition. How signally he distinguished 
himself when disaster came to the British arms in every other quarter, 
is brilliantly recorded on the page of history. On the earnest invita- 
tion of General Braddock, he attended the military conference at Alex- 
andria, where he received command both of the provincial militia and 
the warriors of the Six Nations in the expedition against Crown Point, 
his rank being major-general. Braddock also irfduced Johnson to serve 



62 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

as superintendent of Indian affairs, giving him sole power and commis- 
sioning him to treat with the confederate nations in order to unite them 
in support of British interests. This investment of authority was fol- 
lowed by a grand council at Mount Johnson, and the long sought alli- 
ance was accomplished ; but when General Johnson marched for Lake 
George the jealousy of Governor Shirley prompted him to use every 
means to discredit Johnson, and even to attempt to win from him the 
friendship of the Mohawks in order to rally them under his own standard. 

Having previously described the expedition against Crown Point, it 
is sufficient here to state that it was only through the timely arrival 
and 'persistent efforts of General Johnson that victory was secured. 
Early in the battle which decided the fate of war, he was wounded ^ and 
was obliged to retire from the field, but while succeeded by General 
Lyman, he still in part directed the action, and yet, notwithstanding its 
grand success, he incurred censure for neglecting to attack the French 
fort at Crown Point, which some thought might have been captured 
easily, as the enemy was too severely beaten to make a successful de- 
fense. Instead of doing this Johnson erected Fort William Henry at 
the head of Lake George, but whatever may have been the truth of the 
above mentioned censure, it is evident that the public was in approval 
of Johnson's conduct, and congratulations were freely bestowed both 
by the province and the crown. The former tendered him an ovation 
and public reception in New York city, while the latter made him a 
baronet, and he was thenceforth known as "Sir William." 

Parliament also voted him thanks for his victory, and a more sub- 
stantial reward was added in the handsome gift of five thousand pounds. 
These gratuities were followed by a commission as " Colonial Agent, 
and sole Superintendent of all the affairs of the Six Nations and other 
Northern Indians " 

The last mentioned appointment was the source of much gratification 
to all the Indians and especially to the Mohawks. About this time, 
1756, the Pennsylvania Indians became hostile to the colonists, and the 
superintendent was called upon to prevent violence. Several confer- 
ences were held, and though serious trouble was threatened, it was 
averted by this timely intervention. 

1 General Johnson was wounded in the hip, from which he was ever afterward a constant suf- 
ferer, and no doubt the injuries received in this campaign did much to shorten his life, 



SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 63 

Sir William now suffered much from his wound, and this increased 
the burden of public affairs, but when he was called upon to support 
Webb at German Flats he responded promptly and witnessed the dis- 
tress of that cowardly officer on learning of the fall of Oswego. The 
next year he joined the army under Abercombie, having in his own 
command tlie organized militia of the Mohawk valley, and also his faith- 
ful Indian allies, but the inefficiency of the commander-in-chief pre- 
vented his engaging the enemy — a service which he had earnestly re- 
quested. Disaster at this time attended public affairs, and in addition 
to those which befell the army in the Champlain valley, came the de- 
struction of Palatine village, occurring at a time when Sir William was 
confined to his bed by sickness. As soon, however, as returning health 
permitted he reorganized his militia for active service and marched to 
the scene of conflict. 

An army was sent against Fort Niagara in 1759, under the command 
of Prideaux, but as he was slain at an early time in the siege, Sir 
William succeeded him, and having defeated the attempt to relieve the 
beleagured garrison, he eventually secured a signal victory. This cam- 
paign being ended he returned to Fort Johnson, and it may be added 
that the victories which marked this year really brought the French 
dominion in Canada to a close, though three years elapsed before the 
terms of peace were specified by treaty. This pacific interval enabled 
Sir William to attend to his personal affairs, which had suffered much 
for want of care. As has been mentioned, he had acquired large landed 
estates, having purchased from the original patentees many desirable 
tracts, among which was included what afterward became the township 
of Johnstown. Impressed with its eligibility he founded a settlement 
on this spot, though a year or more elapsed before marked progress was 
made in colonization. This work was also retarded by the campaign 
of 1760, when he with his Mohawk warriors were summoned to the aid 
of General Amherst in his movement against the now weakened French 
positions in the Champlain valley. Serious Indian troubles also oc- 
curred the next year in the northwest, and his presence as superintendent 
was required to pacify the savages and secure an amicable settlement 
of difficulties. This duty required a journey to far distant Detroit, 
which Sir William, notwithstanding his infirmities, undertook and ac- 



64 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

complislied, being accompanied by his son John and his nephew Guy 
Johnson. On the return journey the baronet was again prostrated by 
illness and was obliged to remain several days at Niagara before he 
could resume his homeward route. 

Peace being now proclaimed, and the Indian troubles practically set- 
tled, Sir William once more devoted himself to his personal interests. 
In 1762 he induced one hundred families to settle in his new village of 
Johnstown, and as an additional bounty, he gave the Lutherans and 
Presbyterians each fifty acres of land as a glebe for pastoral support. 
Previously to this he had erected a summer residence on the northwest- 
ern border of the great vlaie, in the present town of Broadalbin, to 
which he gave the dignified name of Castle Cumberland. He also built 
a lodge on the south bank of the Sacandaga, in what is now the town 
of Northampton, where he was acustomed to resort during the fishing 
season, and the spot even to the present retains its early name, the 
" Fish House." Agriculture and stock raising also shared his attention, 
and to improve the breed of domestic animals he brought blooded sheep 
and horses into his settlement. 

Public affairs, however, soon again required his attention, this being 
occasioned by a disaffection among the Indians in Pennsylvania, and 
grievances inflicted on the Mohawks who justly complained that their 
lands had been withheld or invaded by the settlers. Such complaints 
were familiar to Sir William, who again brought the troubles to a satis- 
factory close, and the Indians again learned that they had no wiser and 
firmer friend than the baronet. The treaty at Easton was made and 
confirmed, and Sir William returned to Mount Johnson, where soon 
afterward (1762) his daughter Nancy was married to Col. Daniel Claus. 
The remainder of the year was occupied by the baronet in preparing 
his timber and other material to be used in the construction of Johnson 
Hall, an elegant baronial mansion, completed in 1763, and thenceforth 
his dwelling until the close of his life. This building still stands within 
the limits of the village of Johnstown. It may, however, be added in- 
cidentally that the settlers brought to this spot were chiefly Germans, 
while nearly four miles north he settled a colony of Scotch Highlanders, 
who were also his dependents and faithful followers. They occupied 
the region until the Revolutionary war, and then by reason of their 



SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 65 

allegiance to Sir John Johnson many of them fled with their protector 
and found refuge in Canada. 

But even within the quiet and retirement of Johnson Hall, surrounded 
by faithful friends and devoted servants, Sir William Johnson found no 
permanent peace from the cares of public life and service, for no sooner 
had he arranged for his own comfort than there came mutterings of an- 
other outbreak, followed soon afterward by open warfare against the 
rapidly advancing settlements of the English and American pioneers. 
Pontiac's war threatened not only the safety of the frontiers, but as well 
the interior settlements whose destruction was planned. The wrath of 
many western Indian tribes had become aroused, and their emissaries 
visited the Six Nations, hoping that they also would be persuaded to 
take up the hatchet. The situation at once became alarming, and 
prompt and decisive action was required. Public peril thus called the 
baronet from his comfortable home. His energies were directed to the 
confederate nations, and as the result of his negotiations all the tribes 
promised friendship, with the exception of the Senecas, who, after much 
persuasion, agreed to neutrality. By this treaty, which was a renewed 
proof of the wonderful influence of the baronet, the frontier and also 
the colonies of New York and New England were well protected, in as 
much as between them and the exasperated savages lay the country of 
the Iroquois — a secure barrier which no foe dare pass. Other meas- 
ures for defence were also prosecuted, for Sir William did not depend 
upon the red man's promise unsupported by his own efforts. The mili- 
tia were stationed at convenient points, ready for action if required. 
Pontiac's Indians required vigilant watching, since they bore a special 
hatred against Sir William, chiefly because of his influence over the Iro- 
quois, and hence they determined upon his destruction. The baronet, 
however, became aware of their murderous purpose and therefore armed 
his tenantry and surrounded Johnson Hall with a strong stockade. His 
greatest safety, however, lay in the protection freely offered by his faith- 
ful Mohawk warriors, and fortunately, during Pontiac's war, the New 
York settlements were unmolested. 

For two years next preceding the close of the year 1765, there was 
continual commotion among the Indians of the western frontier, and the 
baronet found his whole energies required in either fitting out expedi- 



G6 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

tions to repel invasions and punish outrages, or in negotiating peace 
treaties. In 1764 he held a grand council at Niagara, whose most im- 
portant result was the Senecas ceding to the British government a tract 
four miles wide on each side of the Niagara river, and extending from 
Lake Ontario to Lake Erie. They additionally granted to the baronet 
all the islands in the same river, which he, in turn, ceded to the crown. 
At the same time Sir William was greatly disturbed by events other 
than those relating to Indian affairs. The patentees who had purchased 
lands of the crown on the promise to satisfy the Indian titles had been 
guilty of many unjust dealings, and had succeeded in trapping the un- 
tutored natives into land conveyances without adequate compensation. 
The owners sought to occupy and settle under their patents, and their 
fraud thus became known to the Mohawks, who, finding themselves thus 
defrauded, became deeply indignant. A similar animosity spread 
throughout the Six Nations, and renewed disaster was threatened. 

The chief cause of this wide spread discontent was created by the 
granting of the patent of Kayaderosseras, an act permitted by the crown 
and sanctioned by the provincial government. Its proprietors repre- 
sented to the Indians that the land sought to be obtained by them would 
include in extent only enough to make a small farm, and they released 
their title for nominal consideration ; in fact the patent included the 
great amount of about 700,000 acres, and the fraud was not discovered 
until the deed of cession had been made Parts of Montgomery and 
Fulton counties were included by the patent, as will be seen by refer- 
ence to the previous chapter. Through the efforts of Sir William the 
Mohawks were restored to a part of their lands, and so far as possible 
he rectified the great wrong which they had suffered ; but in this at- 
tempt he was opposed by powerful political influences exerted by the 
proprietors, and no small amount of both time and effort was required 
to accomplish the much desired result. 

The adverse influences which constantly beset the baronet in the 
province operated in other modes of injury. He had earnestly espoused 
the cause of the Indians, being indeed their official protector, therefore 
reports of his impending removal were circulated. The unscrupulous 
proprietors justly considered him an obstacle in the way of their nefar- 
ious designs. That hoped for removal, however, was never accom- 



Sm WILLIAM JOHNSON. 67 

plished ; on the contrary Sir William's influerce increased, and he was 
sjon gratified by the news that his son John, who was then in England, 
had been knighted by the king. This was conclusive proof of the roj al 
confidence in the baronet's ability and integrity. During the same 
year (1766) Sir William built a grist-mill for the benefit of his tenants, 
gave personal attention to the erection of an Episcopal Church at 
Schenectad}', fitted up at his own expense a Masonic lodge room at 
Johnson Hall, and built commodious stone dwellings for his sons-in- law, 
Guy Johnson and Daniel Claus, to each of which he added the gift of a 
square mile of land. The mansion and estate of Guy Johnson is now 
included in the suburbs of Amsterdam, and has long been known as 
" Guy Park " ; that of Colonel Claus was located about midway from 
Mount Johnson to the Park. Sir John Johnson first lived at the Hall 
with his father, but having married Miss Mary Watts, of New York 
city, on June 29, 1773, they began housekeeping at Mount Johnson. 

The restoration of peace again enabled the baronet to give attention 
to his much neglected business afYairs. He devoted himself to the de- 
velopment of the estate at the Hall, and also to the improvement of his 
tenantry, while the educational and spiritual welfare of his Mohawk 
dependents had a full share in his efforts. Many indeed of these once 
savage warriors had become thrifty and successful farmers, and Sir 
William gave them every possible encouragement. He also built a 
church at Canajoharie for their use and supplied their school with a 
teacher. It was at this time of usefulness that the king, in recognition 
of his eminent service, granted to him the immense tract called the 
" Royal Grant," lying between East and West Canada creeks. Its extent 
was 69,000 acres, and it included the site of Little Falls and part of the 
village of Herkimer. 

In 1 77 1 Johnstown had become a thriving and prosperous business 
centre, and all through the Mohawk valley settlements were increasing 
with marked improvement in agriculture. Johnstown soon required 
new streets, for during the year 1770 eighty families had come there to 
live. Lumber for building was supplied from the baronet's mill, and 
other necessaries were furnished through his bounty. In March, 1771, 
he built St. John's Church, commonly called the "Stone Church," and 
in the same month advertised in the New York papers for a teacher for 
the free school which he had established. 



G8 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Notwithstanding, however, the apparent peace and prosperity that 
prevailed on every hand, the baronet was seriously troubled both in 
body and mind. He was afflicted by a serious malady and every reme- 
dy failed to restore health. In addition to personal ailment was that 
dark cloud which he saw gathering in the political horizon. He well 
knew its cause, and evidently forecast the inevitable result. The 
mother country had burdened the colonies with oppressive measures 
which taxed both their means and patience beyond endurance. Long 
years of experience in public life had made Sir William conversant with 
the needs as well as the capacity of the country, and also with the 
temperament of the people. He beheld the public grievances, yet was 
powerless to remove the burden. A servant of the crown, as well as 
its beneficiary, he was a sad and silent observer of all that occurred, 
and his unerring judgment told him at once that a rupture with Great 
Britain was inevitable. He did not, however, live to participate in the 
conflict that followed these premonitory signs and which ended in na- 
tional independence and the creation of the Republic of the United 
States. 

Previous to this important event. Sir William became an active factor 
in the organization of two new counties, being in this movement the 
counselor of Governor Tryon, then chief executive of the province. 
The plan and petition for dividing Albany county was first suggested 
in 1769, but the bill for that purpose was opposed and defeated. In 
1772 another petition was sent to the legislature by Sir William, and 
after a brief delay he was gratified to learn that the bill had become a 
law. This subject will be more fully discussed in one of the later chap- 
ters of this work, and yet a brief allusion to it at the present time is 
appropriate. 

The original county of Albany was created in 1683, and was con- 
firmed in 1691, but its jurisdiction then included the entire province of 
New York, together with that disputed territory then called the " New 
Hampshire Grants," but now part of Vermont. The bill which was 
passed in 1772 divided Albany county and created three counties — 
Albany, Tryon and Charlotte. Tryon included all that part of the 
province west of the Delaware river and a line extending thence north 
through what is now Schoharie count)', and along the east line of Mont- 



SIR WILLIAM JOHNSON. 09 

gomery, Fulton and Hamilton counties, and continuing in a straight line 
to Canada. Charlotte county included the New Hampshire grants 
north of the north lints of the towns of Arlington and Sunderland in 
Vermont, and a continuation of that line west to the Tryon county lire. 
The remainder of New York, with part of Vermont, constituted Albany 
county. 

Sir William li\ed to see this organization completed. In fact he u as 
not only one of its originators but designed its temporary offices, nom- 
inated those who were elected by the people and controlled its affairs 
during his lifetime. Johnstown was designated the county seat. The 
court-house and jail were built the same year, the first term of court 
being held in September. The baronet also, at the suggestion of the 
governor, divided the new county into provincial districts, or town- 
ships they would now be called. 

During 1772, Governor Tryon, accompanied by his wife, visited Sir 
William's palatial home, the ostensible object being to hold a council 
with the Mohawks, but in reality it was to learn what might be the 
most desirable lands in th^t region, for the worthy governor had a de- 
sire to speculate. During his stay, however, he reviewed the various 
regiments of troops under Sii^ William's command — three in number, 
one being composed of residents of Johnstown and its vicinity. In 
recognition of Sir William's services in organizing so effective a body 
of militia, Governor Tryon soon honored him with a commission as 
major-general of the northern department, a position he held during 
the remainder of his life. 

From this time until 1774 we have a quiet interval, but in the last 
mentioned year Indian troubles again demanded the attention of the 
superintendent,. arising from a revolt in Pennsylvania, which seriously 
threatened the peace of the Six Nations. Johnson, although unfit for 
duty by reason of illness, consented to hold a council at the hall. Six 
hundred of the confederates were present, and the baronet addressed 
the chiefs and sachems for two hours, all the time being exposed to the 
burning heat of a July sun. The exertion required by such an effort 
produced a fit, from which he died the next day, July 11, 1774. "His 
funeral," says a reliable authority, " was the most solemn demonstra- 
tion the colonies up to that time had ever witnessed. The clergyman 



?0 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

in attendance was the Rev. Mr. Stewart, missionary at Fort Hunter, 
and the funeral procession numbered over 2,000, including colonial dig- 
nitaries and Indians, who were bereaved of a lifelong friend. He was 
buried in a vault erected beneath the floor of St. John's church for the 
family, but he was the only one of the number who ever occupied it." 

Sir William, six months before his death, prepared a will disposing of 
his property and estate, by which he made abundant provisions for the 
children born to him by Catherine Wisenberg and Molly Brant, and 
also to other beneficiaries, but his principal devisee was his son, Sir 
John, who inherited the estate at Johnstown with other vast tracts of 
land, and to whom also descended the influence and power exercised by 
the baronet over the Six Nations. One especial injunction in Sir Will- 
iam's will clearly indicates the true character of the testator; it really 
revealed his heart: " I do earnestly recommend to my son to show 
lenity to such of the tenants as are poor, and an upright conduct with 
all mankind, which will on reflection afford more satisfaction to a noble 
and generous mind than the greatest opulence." But the will of the 
baronet, although elaborately prepared, and legally signed and wit- 
nessed, was never executed. 

Had Sir William lived it is confidently believed he would have 
espoused the cause of the colonies against the mother country, in which 
event one of the most magnificent estates in the country v^ould have 
been confirmed to him, but his successors, and particularly his son Sir 
John, allied themselves to the British, and as a result the estate was 
confiscated and sold for the public benefit. 

While Sir John Johnson succeeded to the baronial estate of his father, 
and also, as far as possible, to his influence among the Indians, the office 
of superintendent of Indian affairs was committed to Colonel Guy John- 
son, assisted by Colonel Daniel Claus, the latter having been deputy 
superintendent to Sir William in Canada. 



SIR JOHN JOHNSON. 71 



CHAPTER IX. 



Situation in Tryon County from the Close of the French War to tlie Revohilion — 
British Oppression Causes Discontent — The Stamp Act — Duties Levied on other 
Commodities — The Boston Tea Party — First Congress at Philadelphia — New York 
Opposes the Action of Congress — Districts of Tryon County — Guy Johnson Disperses 
the Meeting at Cauglinawaga — Attack upon Jacob Sammons — Action of Loyalists — 
Guy Park Fortified — General Meeting of the Tryon County Committee — Its Object 
— Guy Johnson Departs for Canada — Conduct of Sir John — He Fortifies the Hall 
and Anns the Highlanders — His Arrest, Parole and Flight to Canada — The Estate 
Confiscated — Character and Duties of the Committees of Safety. 

rHE years immediately preceding the revolution weie filled with im- 
portant events connected with the liistory of Tryon county; and 
in no part of which was there a greater diversity of sentiment than in 
that which afterward became Montgomery county. 

The political situation in Tryon county during the revolution and 
indeed for some years previous, was at once novel and interesting, since 
it included influences politically antagonistic, while socially there was 
no animosity among the pioneers, and good will and friendship pre- 
vailed on every hand. The settlements founded by the direct influence 
of Sir William Johnson in the Mohawk valley were entirely under his 
control during his life, and their militia was subject to his command. 
His death, however, and the succession of his son (so far as it was pos- 
sible for the latter to succeed him), caused a marked change in political 
events; one indeed which created not only a division of sentiment, but 
in many instances the rupture of friendship. Had Sir William lived a 
few years longer his love of America might have led him to espouse her 
cause, and many think his policy indicated such a purpose ; but Sir 
John, and his brothers in-law, Guy Johnson and Daniel Claus, were 
creatures of the king, having no sentiment in common with the people, 
being evidently imbued with aristocratic notions. 

Continuing this inquiry into the condition of public matters, we are 
led to examine the prevailing causes of the above mentioned division, 
both in sentiment and action, and it also occasions a review of those 



72 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

events which precipitated the war. A careful examination of tlie Mo- 
hawk valley at the time referred to leads to the conviction that the pa- 
triots were strongly in the majority. The taxation to which the colo- 
nies were subjected by the mother country really began almost as far 
back as the overthrow of the Dutch power in America, for it seems to 
have been the king's determination to make them self supporting, which 
was more than their own share toward national greatness. The burden 
of debt was then very heavy on Great Britian, but it was chiefly created 
by the wars in which she engaged on her own side of the Atlantic. 
That portion, howevei', incurred by the wars on this continent she pro- 
posed to be paid by the colonies, notwithstanding the great increase of 
her domain through these wars. The time, however, arrived when tame 
submission to such measures could no longer be endured. The colo- 
nists themselves were heavily burdened with the expenses of the late 
French war, which resulted so favorably to England, yet almost before 
the smoke of the battles had cleared away the ministry began devising 
plans to tax them without asking their consent. In 1764 a proposition 
was submitted to the House of Commons for raising revenue in the 
colonies by the sale of stamps, and a bill to that effect was passed in 
March, 1765. It was bitterly denounced in the colonies, especially in 
New York, and the " Sons of Liberty" were organized in opposition to 
the obnoxious law. This organization was closely watched by Sir 
William, who, as he could not but be conscious of the rectitude of their 
motives, made no public opposition. 

So great, indeed, was the popular indignation that parliament finally 
repealed the act, but this was done more to satisfy English tradesmen 
than to relieve a distressed people ; and in its place were enacted other 
oppressive laws, one of which required the provinces to pay for support- 
ing the British soldiery in New York city. The colonial assembly re- 
fused to comply with the demand, and parliament in retaliation annulled 
its legislative powers. 

In 1767 a bill was passed by parliament imposing a duty on tea, 
glass, lead, paper and painter's colors imported by the colonies. This 
renewed the opposition, and in the following year the Massachusetts 
assembly addressed a circular letter to the sister colonies soliciting their 
assistance in defending the common liberties More retaliation followed, 



MUTTERIXGS OF REVOLUTION. 7J 

for tlie ministry was so wrathful that a letter was sent to each of the 
colonial governors forbidding their assemblies to correspond with Mas- 
sachusetts. This mandate, however, was ignored, and the New York 
assembly accompanied its disobedience with declarations of inherent 
rights, together with denunciations of parliament, and the people sus- 
tained their representatives and returned most of them to the new assem- 
bly of 1769. 

In 1770 Lord Dunniore succeeded Colden as governor, and brought 
with him royal approval of the act authoiizing the issue of the colonial 
bills of credit. The duties had meanwhile been removed from all arti- 
cles except tea, and colonial affairs for a time moved more smoothly, 
but in July 18, 1771, William Tryon became governor, and soon after- 
ward the old difficulties were again renewed. The East India Company, 
conscious of the injustice in placing a duty on tea, tried to have the lat- 
ter removed, but in vain, for the ministry still adhered to its boasted 
right to tax the colonies. This was soon followed by the destruction 
of the tea shipped to Boston, an event which has ever been known as 
the " Boston Tea Party." The ministry, whose rage was still more ex- 
cited by the bold defiance, again retaliated by closing the port of Boston 
against all commerce — an outrage which awoke national indignation. 
Public meetings were held for the consideration of the common griev- 
ances, and among the plans suggested for mutual protection was the 
assembling of a Colonial Congress. 

The " Continental Congress " (as it has ever been termed) was held 
at Philadelphia in September, 1774, and having adopted a declaration 
of rights, it added a petition to the king and an appeal to the people of 
Great Britian and Canada. The New York assembly was the only one 
that did not sanction these proceedings; instead of which it addressed 
a remonstrance to parliament, which was treated with disdain. ^ 

Let us now return to the county of Tryon and mark how these 
measures affected the people, and how the latter co-operated for the 
common weal. The reader must remember that Tryon county was then 

'On the 12th of January, 1775, at a cabinet council, it was declared that there was nothing in the 
proceedings of Congress that afforded any basis for ac*honorable reconciliation. It was therefore 
resolved to break oflf all commerce with the Americans ; to protect the loyalists in the colonies, and 
•to declare all others to be traitors and rebels.— Lossing. 

10 



74 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

a new creation named in honor of the governor, but young as it was it 
displayed a full degree of power. The enormous extent of the county 
led to its division into five districts — the first, beginning at the east, was 
the Mohawk district, embracing Fort Hunter, Caughnawaga, Johnstown 
and Kingsboro ; next was Canajoharie district, embracing the present 
town of that name, with all the country south, inilluding Cherry Valley 
and Harpersfield ; third was Palatine district, north of the river, and 
including the settlement known by the same name, together with Stone 
Arabia and its immediate precinct ; fourth was German Flats and Kings- 
land, and other western settlements. 

Many of the people were zealous and earnest in the patriotic cause 
and were open in their approval of the proceedings of the Continental 
Congress, but on the other hand, their district contained Sir John John- 
son, who, having succeeded to his father's ^^military title (though never 
to his popularity and influence), warmly supported the British interests. 
In carrying out this policy Sir John was seconded by Guy Johnson and 
Daniel Claus, whose efforts were directed to the complete alienation of 
the Indians from the whig colonists, and also to bring into submission 
all of the settlers that might yield to their influence. This attempt, 
however, did not succeed to any considerable extent, though the imme- 
diate dependents and tenants on the Johnson estate were kept in 
subjection. The Mohawks of course were friendly to the crown, for 
they loved the father too well to oppose his son. Prominent among 
them were the notorious leaders, John and Walter Butler, and also the 
chief, Joseph Brant, all of whom became infamous from their bloody 
deeds during the revolution, and yet their pillage and slaughter was 
generally described to the instigations of the Johnsons. 

Sir John and his fellow loyalists did not limit their schemes to Tryon 
county ; they sent emissaries to the Six Nations and all other Indians 
within their reach, the object being to induce them to take up the 
hatchet against the Americans. In this effort they were too successful, 
for all except the Oneidas and a few other friendly Indians joined the 
British. The tory sentiment, however, which was so general in the 
Mohawk district, did not prevail throughout the country and this was 
especially true of the Germans in the Palatine district, whose patriotic 
zeal corresponded with the worth of the cause, and whose example had 



SIR JOHN JOHNSON'S ANIMOSITY. 75- 

an inspiring influence throughout the entire region. They were proof 
against the machinations of the Johnsons and the still more seductive 
influence of British gold. 

One of the first mass- meetings of the Whigs in Tryon county was 
held at Caughnawaga soon after the opening of congress, its purpose 
being to express pub , approval of the policy pursued by the colonies, 
and to adopt such measures as might be required by the common weal. 
On this occasion the animosity of Sir John and his associates was fully 
manifested, for no sooner had the proceedings begun, than he appeared 
on the ground with Guy Johnson, Colonel Claus, Butler and a crew of 
retainers, armed with swords and firearms. Guy Johnson acted as 
speaker for the tories. Mounting a high stoop, he addressed the 
throng (which included about 300 patriots), setting forth the power of 
the crown and the weakness of the colonies. In the course of his 
speech he so incensed Jacob Sammons, son of the pioneer Sampson 
Sammons, that the latter retorted with the epithets of " liar and villain." 
Enraged at this response the tory colonel leaped down and struck the 
offender a blow which felled him to the ground. Recovering con- 
sciousness, young Sammons found one of Johnson's servants sitting 
astride his body, but the latter was quickly thrown off and the quarrel 
renewed. Jacob received further injuries, pistols were pointed to his 
breast, he was again knocked down, and finally was compelled to retire 
and depart for his father's house, the place being long known as Sam- 
monsville. 

The foregoing incident correctly illustrates the feelings of Sir John 
Johnson towards those who differed with his opinions and interests, but 
while his retainers in the Mohawk district numbered more than a 
thousand (including settlers and Indians) his influence never extended 
beyond them nor were his views respected in those parts of the country 
that were less subjected to his power. 

The proceedings of the Continental Congress (held in Philadelphia 
in the spring of 1775) naturally surprised and even alarmed this boast- 
ful tory, and he determined to counteract their influence so far as 
possible, and at the same time to convince the crown of his unshaken 
allegiance. Accordingly, at a court held in Johnstown in the spring 
" a declaration was drawn up and circulated by the loyalists of Tryon. 



T6 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUXTY. 

county, in which they avowed their opposition to the measures adopted 
by congress." Some debate and warm discussion followed this 
refractory measure, but the document was signed bj- most of the grand 
jur\- and nearly all the magistrates ; a very natural thing indeed, for the 
county was fully controlled b\- the Johnson interest. 

The influence of the Johnsons as has been mentioned was chiefly 
limited to the Mohawk district, and no sooner had their conduct become 
known throughout the country than meetings were held in other local- 
ities, notable in the Palatine and Canajoharie districts, upon which 
occasions the recent outrages were condemned, and the people were 
urged to firmness in the cause of liberty. The most alarming feature 
in the public situation was the fortification of Guy Park, whose proprie- 
tor had placed swivel guns on each side, and had furnished arms to the 
tenants and also to the neighboring Indians. More than this, he had 
stopped and searched two New Englanders, being suspicious that they 
were emissaries from Massachusetts to the Six Nations whose purpose 
was to make them allies to the American cause. 

At this time the Johnson part}' was alarmed by the suspicion that a 
body of New Englanders was coming to eflect their arrest, but however 
well founded their suspicions may have been, there was no such inten- 
tion at that time on the part of the colonial authorities, and Guy John- 
son's defense may have been due to the fear that he might be attacked 
by the indignant people of the valley, on account of his enmity to lib- 
erty. It should be said, however, in justice to Johnson, that he avowed 
that he was not so much in fear of the settlers in the valley as of assault 
from the New Englanders This may be seen by an extract from one 
of his letters : " You have been misinformed as to the origin of the re- 
ports which obliged me to fortify my house, and stand on my defense. 
I had it from undoubted authoritj- from Albany, and since confirmed 
by letters from one of the committee at Philadelphia, that a large body 
of men were coming to make me prisoner." 

On June 2, 1775, there was held a general meeting of the committees 
of safety for several districts of Tryon county, at which was present for 
the first time the Mohawk committee, they having heretofore been re- 
strained from taking part in the proceedings through fear of the John- 
sons. The representatives present on this occasion were as follows : 





Coiyt-t^^X^ ^ 



COMMITTEES OF SAFETV. 77 

From the Palatine district, Isaac Paris, Christopher P. Yates, John Frey, 
Andrew Fink, Andrew Reeber, Peter Wagner, Daniel McDougall, Jacob 
Klock, George Ecker, jr., Harmanus Van Slyck, Christopher W. Fox, 
Anthony Van Veghten ; Canajoharie district, Nicholas Herkimer, Eb- 
enezer Cox, William Seeber, John Moore, Samuel Campbell, Samuel 
Clyde, Thomas Henry, John Pickert ; Kingsland and German Flats 
district, Edward Wall, William Petry, John Petry, Augustin Hess, Fred- 
erick Ovendorf, George Wentz, Michael Ittig, Frederick Fox, George 
Herkimer, Duncan McDougal, Frederick Helmer, John Franck ; Mo- 
hawk district, John Marlatt, John Bliven, Abraham Van Home, Adam 
Fonda, Frederick Visscher, Sampson Sammons, William Schuyler, Vol- 
kert Vedder, James McMaster, Daniel Lane. 

The principal object of this gathering was to cement more strongly 
the friendship of the settlers, and to discuss the best means to be 
adopted for the general welfare. At the same time a committee was 
chosen to prepare and send to Col. Guy Johnson a letter, setting forth 
the sentiment of the people as declared by the representatives, and re- 
questing that he, as superintendent of Indian affairs, should use his best 
efforts to dissuade the Indians from taking up arms against the settlers, 
rumors then being in circulation that Johnson's retainers had been in- 
stigating them to attack. In reply to this letter Colonel Johnson most 
emphatically denied the charge, and expressed a desire to promote 
peace between the Indians and the inhabitants. He also called a sec- 
ond council of the Indians in the western part of the county, and, un- 
der pretense of there meeting them, moved his family from the Park to 
Crosby Manor, a little above German Flats. After remaining for a 
time in the upper part of the valley, he and his followers moved west- 
ward as far as Ontario, thence to Oswego, and eventually to Montreal, 
where he remained during the war, still acting as agent and superin- 
tendent, and whence using British gold as a stimulating influence, he 
sent out parties of Indians to fall upon the settlements in their usual 
bloody and merciless manner. The people of the valley, being aware of 
his departure, were both surprised and alarmed by the movement, but 
were powerless to prevent it, for they were comparatively unorganized 
and were destitute of either arms or ammunition. 

In the party which accompanied Guy Johnson were John and Walter 
Butler and Joseph Brant, but the larger part of the loyalists remained 



78 mSTOUT OF MONTGOMERY COUNTT. 

behind, placing themselves under the protection of Sir John, whose 
house and property- now became their principal place of rendezvous. 
Between this party and the committees of safety there occurred incessant 
contentions. Among the loyalists was Alexander White, sheriff of 
Tryon countj-, who had made himself peculiarh- obnoxious to the com- 
mittees, and who was bitterly hated because of his prominence in the 
assault upon Jacob Sammons and in breaking up the meeting at Caugh- 
nawaga. The committee refused to recognize the authority of White 
as sheriff, and procured the election of John Frey in his stead. White 
left the country and went to Canada, but returning the next summer 
he was arrested, though afterward released on parole. 

Between Col. Guy Johnson and Sir John, after the former had reached 
Canada, there was a continual correspondence, their letters being car- 
ried secretly by the Indians. Sir John was no less inimical than his 
brother-in-law, but to draw out clearly his sentiments and test his loy- 
alt)', the general committee addressed him a letter, requesting to know 
whether he would allow the inhabitants of " Johnstown and Kingsboro 
to form themselves into companies, according to the regulations of the 
Continental Congress, for the defense of our country's cause ; and 
whether your honor would be ready to give personal assistance to the 
same purpose ; also whether you pretend a prerogative to our county 
court-house and jail, and would hinder or interrupt the committee mak- 
ing use of the same to our want and ser\'ice in the common cause." 

To this letter Sir John replied : " That as to embodpng his tenants, 
he never did or should forbid them ; but they (the committee) might 
save themselves further trouble, as he knew his tenants would never 
consent." Concerning his own intentions, he said, that "sooner than 
lift his hand against the king, or sign any association articles, he would 
suffer his head to be cut off." 

From the tenor of this reply there could be no mistaking the senti- 
ments of the baronet. He claimed the ownership of the court-house 
and the jail until he should be reimbursed the sum of $700, but said that 
he would not deny the use of the latter for the purpose for which it was 
intended. In regard to Sir John's asserted ownership of the county 
buildings it may be stated that the committee of congress had informa- 
tion that Sir William Johnson had conveyed the same to two persons 



FLIGHT OF SIR JOHN. 79 

in trust for the county. The committee advised, however, that in view 
of the bad consequences that might follow if the buildings were at- 
tempted to be used for the confinement of the tories, the local commit- 
tee should engage some other building for their purposes. Accordingly 
a private house was secured in which several tories were confined, while 
others were sent to Albany and Hartford. 

During the winter of 1775— 6, the people of the county were alarmed 
by the news that Sir John was making preparations to fortify Johnson 
Hall, and to arm his tenantry and concentrate his entire force in the 
vicinity ; also that he was to garrison his forts with 300 well-armed In- 
dians. There was much truth in this rumor, as the baronet did con- 
struct two forts, both of stone, for the defence of the Hall. One of these 
is still standing, while the other has been removed, as it impaired the 
beauty and convenience of the mansion, which still stands as securely 
and substantially as when built in 1763. A more complete description 
of the Hall and its surroundings will be found in the History of Fulton 
County. 

The conduct of Sir John in prosecuting warlike measures, together 
with his often repeated treasonable utterances, at last attracted the at- 
tention of the provincial authorities, and they decided to bring them to 
a close. For this purpose, in January, 1 776, General Schuyler, accom- 
panied by General Ten Broek and Col. Varick, marched a military force 
into Tryon county, and at the same time General Herkimer called out 
the militia, and a combined demonstration was made, their rendezvous 
being Major Fonda's, where Fonda now stands. Negotiations were held 
with Sir John and continued two or three days, and the result was that 
he disarmed his tenants and surrendered himself a prisoner. He was 
taken to Fishkill, but soon after released on parole. This pledge of 
honor however, he violated, for in the following May he and his ten- 
ants left the Hall, proceeded stealthily by way of Sacandaga and took 
up his abode in Montreal, whither Col. Guy Johnson had preceded 
him. During the war that followed, Sir John commanded a troop of 
his faithful servants and tenants, which were known as "Johnson's 
Greens." 

The flight of the last of the Johnson family removed from Tryon 
county the most dangerous element against which the struggling colon- 



80 HISTORY OF .\IO>^TGOMERY COUNTY. 

ists had to contend. Thenceforth, so far as local government was con- 
cerned, there was no dispute in old Tryon, for the whole people were 
united in the common cause; and if toryism occasionally manifested it- 
self it was quickly subdued and even followed by arrest. Sir John's 
servant concealed much of his plate and treasure, but afterward recov- 
ered it. The vast Johnson estates, however, were confiscated and 
sold, and the county thus relieved of the possibility of a "manorial 
tenure." 

Before concluding the present chapter it may be well to explain the 
necessity of appointing committees, and also the method by which they 
were formed, and the powers and duties entrusted to them. 

Governor Tryon, in whose honor the county was named, was not at 
all in sympathy with the feelings and actions of the American colonies, 
and this is the reason why the New England colonies were so much 
more incensed at the conduct of the Johnsons than the New York au- 
thorities. In fact, between the executive of this province and the John- 
sons there was the greatest harmony of thought and sentiment ; both 
were the creations and the creatures of the king, and their policy was 
in subservience to the royal command. 

It could not indeed be otherwise than that Tryon should remain faith- 
ful to his sovereign, for his office was the direct gift of the crown, and 
all that the Johnsons possesssed came from the same source. 

This allegiance to the king on the part of the governor and nearly all 
others in high office and influence in this province operated materially 
against the patriots, and forced them into such a position that they were 
compelled to act through a specially created and self constituted body 
called the General Committee of Safety, which in turn reported to and 
received instructions from the Continental Congress. In each of the 
counties of this province, the chief body was the Council of Safety, 
while in the several districts (towns or township as now known) were 
more local organizations, each called the Committee of Safety. The 
principal duty of the latter was to learn the condition of the district ; 
to ascertain who were friendly to the crown and to watch their move- 
ments ; also to learn whether the tory element was making any prep- 
arations for either aggressive or defensive operations, and the nature of 
such proceedings. In short the district committee was supposed to 



BEGINNING OF THE REVOLUTION. , 8P 

know whatever was taking place in its territory and to report the facts 
to the Council of Safety. Each of the districts had one of these com- 
mittees. It was the meeting held at Caughnawaga under the direction 
of the Mohawk district committee which was attacked and dispersed by 
the forces of Guy Johnson, of which mention has already been made in 
this chapter. 



CHAPTER X. 



Beginning of the Revolution — The British Influence — The Iroqnois — Oneidas 
Remain Neutral — Organization of Militia in Tryon County — St. Leger Invades the 
Mohawk Valley — The Battle of Oriskany and Fort Schuyler — The British Defeated 
^The First Pension — Indian Depredations in 1778 — Campaigns of SuHivan and 
Clinton in 1779 — Sir John Johnson Invades the Valley in 1780 — Visits Johnstown 
and Secures his Plate — Details of bis Raid. 

THE flight of the last of the Johnsons from Tryon county restored 
partial tranquillity among its inhabitants, for while a few tories still 
remained they were awed into silence by the determined action of the 
committees of safety. To such a class their property was a far greater 
sacrifice than the surrender of their principles. 

In 1776 the war had become national instead of colonial and on the 
4th day of July independence was formally declared. The long period 
of seven years of hardship, sufl'ering and conflict which had begun in 
the battle of Lexington in April, 1775, was closely followed by the dar- 
ing exploits of Allen and Arnold, both at Ticonderoga and on Lake 
Champlain, but it was some time before old Tryon county was made the 
scene of war. All through the Mohawk valley the greatest fear of the 
people arose from the probability of an Indian invasion, instigated by 
the Johnsons, and hence all possible preparations were proposed both 
to prevent a surprise and resist an attack. 

The policy of the Americans had been to secure simply the neutrality 
of the Indians, but their success was limited to the Oneidas, while the 
British made undisguised efforts to unite them in close alliance with the 
royal cause. One of their officers exclaimed : " We must let loose the 



82 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

savages upon the frontier of these scoundrels to inspire terror and make 
them submit." In the spring of 1777 Governor Tryon wrote to Ger- 
main that he was perfectly agreed as to the employment of Indians in 
the war. Brant, the great Mohawk chief who had been taken to 
England (1775—76), was shown marked favor by the government and 
was empowered to lead all who would follow him against the colonists. 
Lord Chatham, however, hurled his bitterest invective against this in- 
humanity, and when, in 1777, it was advocated in parliament, in such 
words as these : " It is perfectly justifiable to use all the means that God 
and nature have put in our hands," he indignantly exclaimed : " I know 
not what idea that lord may entertain of God and nature, but I know 
that such abominable principles are equally abhorrent to religion and 
humanity." Chatham's appeal however was in vain, and the secretary 
of war (Germain) gave special instructions to employ Indians in fighting 
republicans. A council had already been held in Montreal by the 
chiefs and warriors of. the Iroquois, the Johnsons, Butlers and Brant 
taking part. Here the savages swore fealty to the king, this being the 
first act in the long catalogue of slaughter and devastation that followed. 

For the emergency of war, during the early part of the summer of 
1776, a company of rangers was formed among the people living in the 
Mohawk valley, and the command was given to Captain Robert Mc- 
Kean ; but as this force was sent to another field it became necessary 
to organize another company, which was stationed in the valley under 
Captain Winn. In August Captain Getman's company of rangers was 
formed, and officered as follows: Captain, Christian Getman ; lieuten- 
ants, Jacob Sammons and James Billington ; corporals, William Kind, 
John Hulsor, Leonhart Kratzer ; sergeants, Nehemiah Williams, Rich- 
ard Coppernoll. 

The Tryon county committee had charge of the organization of its 
militia, which was divided into four battalions and placed under com- 
mand of General Nicholas Herkimer. The officers of the battalion were 
as follows: Canajoharie district, first battalion — Colonel, Nicholas 
Herkimer ; lieutenant-colonel, Ebenezer Cox ; major, Robert Wells ; 
adjutant, Samuel Clyde. Palatine district, second battalion — Colonel, 
Jacob Klock ; lieutenant colonel, Peter Wagner ; major, Harmanus 
Van Slyck ; adjutant, Anthony Van Vechten. Mohawk district, third 



BATTLE OF ORISKANY. 85 

battalion — Colonel, Frederick Visschcr ; lieutenant- colonel, Adam 
Fonda; major, John Bliven; adjutant, Robert Yates. Kingsland and 
German Flats district, fourth battalion — Colonel, Hanyoost Herkimer ; 
lieutenant-colonel, Peter Bellinger; major, Hanyoost Shoemaker; ad- 
jutant, John Demooth. 

The organization of this military force was effected none too soon, 
and they were early called into service. Brant had appeared on the 
upper waters of the Susquehanna, and General Schuyler dispatched 
General Herkimer to communicate with him in order to learn his in- 
tentions, and if possible secure his promise of neutrality. In July Her- 
kimer with 380 of his militia began his march, but the conference 
yielded no substantial result and as the season advanced the inhabitants 
of the Mohawk valley were thrown into a state of wild excitement by 
the news that a strong British force of regulars, tories and Indians was 
assembled at Oswego with purpose to attack Fort Schuyler, after whose 
capture they were to march through the valley and co-operate with 
General Burgoyne and his army, which was then overpowering every- 
thing in the Champlain valley. Unfortunately, however, the people of 
Tryon county were so disconcerted by this alarm that no united action 
was taken. Preparation for defence was neglected, and even General 
Herkimer and the committee of safety did not escape the censure of the 
higher military authorities. 

The British force at Oswego comprised 400 regulars, 600 tories and 
700 Indians, all commanded by General St. Leger with Sir John John- 
son and Joseph Brant as allies, while the Americans under Herkimer 
numbered about 800. The latter were assembled at German Flats. 
Fort Schuyler, the object of British attack, was garrisoned by 750 men 
under Colonel Gansevoort, well supplied with ammunition except car- 
tridges for the artillery. The advance guard of the British reached the 
outskirts of the fort on August 2, and made immediate preparation for 
an attack. On the 4th General Herkimer advanced from German Flats 
and on the 5th encamped near Oriskany. From this point he sent 
Adam Helmer and two others to inform Colonel Gansevoort of his ap- 
proach, it being understood that the arrival of these messengers was to 
be announced by the firing of three cannon in quick succession. In the 
meantime St. Leger was apprised of the advance of Herkimer's militia. 



84 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and on the morning of the 6th he dispatched Brant with a large body 
of Indians, also Major Watts with a detachment of Johnson's Greens 
and Butler's rangers, to intercept them and thus prevent the relief of 
the garrison. General Herkimer waited long and patiently for the ex- 
pected signal, but unfortunately his subordinates interpreted his delay 
as evidence of cowardice, and even openly charged it upon him, until 
goaded on by this foul accusation he ordered his impatient men to ad- 
vance. The enemy, practicing their favorite mode of warfare, lured the 
patriot force into ambush and opened a murderous fire, but Herkimer's 
men, though shockingly surprised, went into action with all the nerve 
that could have been expected of the Tryon county soldiery, and such 
bravery against fearful odds was seldom witnessed on any battlefield 
during the Revolution. The militia, indeed, were now for the first time 
brought face to face with their worst hated enemies (Johnson and the 
tories), and they knew that they must conquer or shamefully perish, 
leaving their families the victims of outrage and death. The battle of 
Oriskany finallj' ended in the dearly bought defeat of the British, while 
at Fort Schuyler St. Leger's force fared no better, but the details of this 
action, however interesting, are not necessary to this work (as it was 
fought beyond the present limits of the county of which we write) and 
are therefore omitted. It may be added, however, that General Her- 
kimer was seriously wounded and yet bravely refused to leave the field. 
He supported himself against a tree, seated on his saddle and directed 
the action of his men until victory was secured. He was then carried to 
his dwelling where he died ten daj's afterward, death being the result 
of an unskillful amputation. 

The most important result of the victory at Oriskany was the fact 
that it prevented a union of St. Leger with Burgoyne. The British 
plan was that their three armies should fight their way to Albany, Bur- 
goyne taking the Champlain route in expectation that Lord Howe would 
come from New York (by the Hudson river) and thus co-operate. St. 
Leger, on the other hand, was to devastate the Mohawk valley and 
then join his commander in the same manner. It was a grand military 
scheme, but like many others proved a failure, the first decisive blow be- 
ing the defeat at Oriskany, thus saving Fort Schuyler. Next in im- 
portance was General Stark's great victory over Colonel Baum and his 




c/^'^1^(i>r-€c>c 



THE PATRIOTS OF ORISKANY. 85 

Hessians at Bennington, on the i6th day of August. Each of these 
victories led to the final triumph, and the last scene in the bloody episode 
was Burgoyne's surrender to General Gates, at Stillwater on the 17th of 
the next October. 

The patriot force in the battle of Oriskany, as has been stated, was 
from Tryon county, but unfortunately, no perfect roster of their names 
is in existence. They came from the various districts of the county, 
and the slaughter filled old Tryon with such grief that history was neg- 
lected in the general horror. A partial record, however, was preserved 
of the gallant band that fought in that fearful conflict, and we now add 
a copy in hope that some citizens of Montgomery may here discover an 
ancestor or kinsman. They were patriotic heroes of the highest rank 
and their names should be perpetuated in history, and this leads us 
again to express our regret at the loss of the roster. The following list, 
which is the best that can be given, contains the names of a large num- 
ber of the force, also the place of residence, and also gives the killed, the 
wounded and those taken prisoners. The residences are given in many 
instances in towns erected since that day, but now used for convenience. 

The killed were as follows: Brig.-Gen. Nicholas Herkimer, Danube; 
Col. Ebenezer Cox, Minden ; Frederick Ayer, Schuyler; Nicholas 
Bell, Fall Hill; Joseph Bell, Fall Hill; Jacob Bowman, Canajoharie ; 
Maj. John Bliven, Florida; Samuel Billington, Palatine; Lieut.-Col. 
Samuel Campbell, Cherry Valley : Robert Crouse, Minden ; Andrew 
Cunningham, Amsterdam; Lieut. Robert Campbell, Cherry Valley ; 
Capt. Henry Dievendorf, Minden; Capt. Andrew Dillenbeck, Palatine ; 
Capt. John J. Davis, Mohawk ; Martines Davis, Mohawk ; Benjamin 
Davis, Mohawk ; Capt. Thomas Davy, Springfield ; John Dygert, Pal- 
atine ; Maj. John Eisenlord, Palatine ; Jacob Failing, Canajoharie ; 
Lieut. Petrus Grant, Amsterdam ; Nicholas Gray, Palatine ; Capt. Fred- 
erick Helmer, German Flats; Lieut. Abel Hunt, Florida; Conrad 

Hawn, Herkimer; Hiller, Fairfield ; Jacob Klepsaddle, German 

Flats ; Jacob Moyer, Fairfield ; Jacob Markell, Springfield ; William 
Merckley, Palatine ; Isaac Paris, Palatine ; Peter Paris (son of Isaac), 

Palatine ; Lieut. Dederick Petry, German Flats ; Pettingill, 

Mohawk ; Martines Putnam, Johnstown ; Cornelius Phillips, Florida ; 
John Petry, Herkimer; Lieut. Hanjost Petry, Herkimer ; George Rays- 



86 HISTOUY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

nor, Minden ; Christian Sharrar, Herkimer; Sharrar, Snyder's 

Bush ; Maj. William Seeber, Minden ; Capt. Jacob Seeber, Minden ; 
Adolph Seeber, Minden ; Henry Spencer, Joseph Snell, Jacob Snell, 
Frederick Snell, Sufferenus Snell, of Snell's Bush ; John Snell, John 
Snell, jr., Jacob Snell, of Stone Arabia ; Maj. Harmanus Van Slyke, 
Palatine ; Peter Westerman, Minden ; John Wohlever, Lawrence 
Wrenkle, Fort Herkimer. 

Wounded: Capt. John Bigbread, Palatine; John Cook, Palatine; 
Peter Conover, Maj. John P. Frey, Palatine ; Capt. Christopher W. Fox, 
Conrad Folts, Herkimer ; Henry Failing, Canajoharie ; Capt. Jacob 
Gardner, Fultonville ; Samuel Gardner, Fultonville ; Philip Nellis, Pal- 
atine ; Adam Price, Canajoharie ; Joseph Petry, Herkimer ; Capt. 
Nicholas Rechtor, Ephratah ; Jacob Radnour, Minden ; William Shafer, 

Col. Frederick Visscher, Mohawk ; Van Antwerp, supposed 

Glen ; George Wagner ; George Walter, Palatine ; Henry Zimmerman, 
St. Johnsville. 

Taken prisoners: Lieut. -Col. Frederick Bellinger, German Flats; 
Maj. Blauvelt, Mohawk ; Peter Ehle, Francis Lighthall, Ephratah ; Gar- 
rit Walrath, Minden ; Lieut. Henry Walrath, Herkimer; Henry Wal- 
rath, Herkimer; Surgeon Moses Younglove, Stone Arabia; Jacob 
Youker, Oppenheim. 

In the battle: Abram Arndt, Minden; Jacob Alter, Minden ; Col. 
Peter Bellinger, German Flats ; Capt. George H. Bell, Fall Hill ; Mel- 
chert Bauder, Palatine ; John R. Boyer, Snyder's Bush ; Adam Bellin- 
ger, John Bellinger, Billington, Palatine; Peter Bargy, Frank- 
fort; Adjt. Samuel Clyde, Cherry Valley; Capt. Abram Copeman, 
Canajoharie ; Isaac Conover, Glen ; Jacob, John and Adam Casler, 
Minden; Richard Coppernoll, Minden ; William Cox, Minden ; George 
Crouse, Minden; Jacob Clemens, Schuyler; Jacob Collier, Florida; 
John Dievendorf, Minden; Peter Dygert, Palatine; Hans Peter 
Dunckel, Han Garrit Dunckel, Han Nicholas Dunckel, Minden; John 
Dockstader, German Flats ; Capt. William Dygert, German Flats ; 
Marx Demuth, Deerfield ; Capt. Immanuel De Graff, Amsterdam ; 
Peter S. and George Dygert, German Flats ; Peter Dorn, Johnstown ; 
Jacob Empie, Palatine ; William Ehle, Palatine ; John Eysler, Snyder's 
Bush ; Capt. Christopher P. Fox, Peter Fox, Charles Fox, William Fox,. 



THE PATRIOTS OF ORISKANY. 87 

and Christopher Fox, Palatine ; Henry N. FaiUng, Canajoharie ; Valen- 
tine Fralick, Palatine ; Lieut.-Col. Adam Fonda, Fonda ; Peter Geort- 
ner, Minden ; Lieut. Samuel Gray, Herkimer ; Captain Graves, Cap- 
tain Lawrence Gros, Minden ; Cyrus Gray, Florida ; John Adam Hel- 
nier, German Flats ; Lieut. John Joseph House, Minden ; Christian 
Huffnail, John Huyck, Palatine; Marcus Hand, Florida; William Hall, 
Glen ; Maj. Enos Klepsaddle, German Plats ; Conrad and Peter Kilts, 
Palatine ; Andrew, Jacob and Solomon Keller, Palatine ; Col. Jacob 
Klock, Palatine ; Lieut. Peter Loucks, Palatine ; George Lintner, Min- 
den ; Lighthall, Palatine ; Solomon Longshore, Canajoharie ; 

Henry Louns, Canajoharie ; Colonel Louis, a St. Regis Indian with the 
Oneidas. He held a lieutenant's commission, and was usually called 
" Colonel " ; Adam Miller, Glen ; Jelles, John P. and Henry Miller, 
Minden ; David Murray, Florida ; Lieut. David McMaster, Florida ; 
Jacob Myers, German Flats; Joseph Myers, Herkimer; Conrad Mey- 
ers, Danube; Moyers, Moyers (brothers) ; Christian and 

John D. Nellis, Palatine ; Peter Nestell, Palatine ; John and Garret 
Newkirk, Florida; Dr. William Petry, German Flats; John Marks Petry, 
German Flats ; Ensign Richard Putnam, Johnstown ; Nicholas Pick- 
ard, Canajoharie ; Lieut. Abram D. Quackenbush, Glen ; John Rother, 
Minden ; Johannes Roof, Fort Stanwix ; John Roof, Marx Rasbach, 

Kingsland ; Ritter, Fairfield ; Ensign John Jost Scholl, Ephra- 

tah ; Peter Sitts, Palatine ; Henrick Staring, Schuyler ; Thomas 
Shoemaker, Herkimer ; Rudolph Siebert, George Shults, Stone Arabia ; 

Henry Shaull, Herkimer ; Shimmel, Herkimer ; Henry Sanders, 

Minden ; Sufferenus, James and John Seeber, Christian Schell, Schell's 

Bush ; George Smith, Palatine ; Smith, father of Nicholas ; 

Lieut. Jeremiah Swarts, Mohawk ; John G. Sillenbeck, John Shults, 
Palatine ; Peter Sommers, Philip G. P. Stowits, Root ; Peter and 
George Snell, Stone Arabia; Adam Thumb, St. Johnsville; Henry 
Thompson, Glen ; Conrad Timmerman, St. Johnsville ; Nicholas Van 
Slyke, a fifer, Palatine ; Cornelius and Henry Van Home, Florida ; 

Van Slyke, Canajoharie; Lieut.-Col. Peter Wagner, Palatine ; 

Lieut. Peter Wagner, John Wagner, sons of Col. Jacob Wagner, Min- 
den ; John Wagner, Canajoharie ; Richard, Peter and Abram Wohl- 
ever, Jacob Weaver, German Flats ; Peter James Weaver, German 



88 HISTORY OP MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Flats ; Michael Widrick, Schuyler ; Jacob Walrath, Palatine ; Robert 
Yates, Root ; Nicholas Yerdon, Minden. 

Of the representatives of the Snell family who took part in the battle 
of Oriskany, Jeptha R. Simnis, in his Schoharie and Border Wars, 
says : " It has been said for many years that nine Snells went into the 
battle and that seven of that number remained there." 

Henry Staring was the ancestor of Commodore John H. Starin, whose 
magnificent summer residence and grand estate adorns the beautiful el- 
evation just outside the limits of Fultonville. Lieut.-Col. Adam Fonda 
was the ancestor of Henry A. Fonda, of Milton, Pa. 

By reference to the above roll it will be seen that Isaac Paris, of Pal- 
atine, and his son were killed in the battle. On the 14th day of Feb- 
ruary, 1793, Catharine Paris, widow of Isaac, was voted a pension by a 
special act of the state legislature. It is believed to have been the first 
pension ever granted, either by state or federal authority. Catharine 
Paris passed her last days in Johnstown, being cherished by her son, 
Daniel Paris, a prominent lawyer, who was at one time a member of the 
state senate. He married Catharine Irving, sister of the author, and 
among his descendants is Mrs. S. V. R. Cruger, of New York. Mrs. Paris 
was buried in the old Johnstown cemetery, where her grave is still to be 
seen. 

The pension act just mentioned is an interesting feature in Tryon 
county history, and may therefore be included in our record as follows: 
" Whereas it has been represented to the legislature that Isaac Paris, 
one of the militia of this state, was slain at the battle of Oriskany, by 
the enemy of the United States ; and that Catharine Paris, the widow 
of the said Isaac, hath not intermarried with any other person since the 
decease of her said husband, and is now in indigent circumstances; In 
consideration thereof, be it enacted by the people of the State of New 
York, represented in the Senate and Assembly, that the Treasurer of 
this State shall, on or before the first day of May next, pay to the said 
Catharine Paris, or her order, the sum of thirty pounds; and on the 
first Tuesday in May, in every year afterward during her widowhood, 
the like sum of thirty pounds." 

During the year 1778, although there were no historic battles in the 
Mohawk valley, the whole region was constantly alarmed by Indian- 



INDIAN AND TORY MA'RAUDINGS. 89- 

depredations. These petty invasions led Congress to hold a general 
conference with the Six Nations at Johnstown, for the purpose of bring- 
ing them to neutrality, and thus prevent further devastation. For this 
purpose a council was called at Johnstown between the 15th and 20th 
of February, but the Indians were so slow in attendance that it was not 
until March 9 that the proceedings began. General Schuyler and Vol- 
kert Douw, associated with James Duane (as special commissioner) 
conducted the council. The entire Six Nations, except the Senecas, 
were represented by chiefs and sachems, the Indian attendance being 
in all seven hundred. The commissioners opened the council, and one 
of the chiefs of each nation replied. The Oneidas and Tuscaroras ex- 
pressed friendship, but while some others assumed a similar position 
their words were deceitful, and, in fact, during the course of the coun- 
cil there was concealed within convenient distance a number of British 
spies. The results of the council quieted for a time the public fears, 
but it was thought wise to adopt the suggestion of General La Fayette 
(who also was present), and build forts at various places along the 
frontier. 

The Indians at this time were smarting under the chastisement they 
received at Oriskany and Fort Schuyler, hence cautious leaders of the 
Americans were not willing to trust them implicitly, notwithstanding 
their promises. It was well known that the Johnsons were desirous, 
and even determined to reoccupy the Mohawk valley and their deserted 
estates, and were only awaiting a favorable opportunity for an invasion. 
In the south part ofTryon county Brant was perpetrating his cruel and 
cowardly outrages, robbing, burning and slaughtering in the smaller 
frontier settlements. A much bolder movement, which occurred about 
the same time, was the reappearance of a body of tories, estimated at 
one hundred, who came into the Mohawk valley, took their movable 
property and families and escaped without molestation. They left 
Fort Hunter, proceeded to Fonda and thence journeyed northward to 
the Fish House. There they took eleven prisoners, among whom were 
Solomon Woodworth, Godfrey Shew and his three sons. They burned 
the buildings, among them the lodge built by Sir William Johnson in 
1760, and then took boats and rowed down the Sacandaga and up the 
Hudson, thence crossed to Lake George and returned to Canada by the 
Champlain valley. 
12 



90 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

On the 2d of July of the same year, a strong party of Indians made a 
descent upon the settlement at Cobleskill, and two days later occurred 
the terrible massacre at Ws'oming. In the same month also the settle- 
ment at Andrustown, six miles from German Flats, was plundered by 
Brant and his savage warriors. During the same fall, General Haldi- 
mand, governor- general of Canada, at the suggestion of Sir John John- 
son, sent a party of forty or fifty men to Johnstown to recover certain 
valuable papers which were concealed near the former residence. In 
this party was one Helmer, who was injured and obliged for a time to 
remain in his father's house. He was discovered and arrested, tried, 
convicted and sentenced to death at Johnstown. The others of the party, 
although they committed no depredations (at least there are none on 
record), escaped in safety to Canada, having come and returned by the 
short but unfrequented route of the Sacandaga, Lake George and Cham- 
plain Valley. Another fearful outrage occurred in November of the 
same year, when Brant and Butler, with 200 tories and 500 Indians, fell 
upon the little settlement at Cherry Valley and ruthlessly slaughtered 
its inhabitants and plundered their dwellings. 

The Indian depredations of 1778 were really the most important feat- 
ures in warfare during that year, but it was also noted for the alliance with 
France, which gave renewed confidence to the colonies and really in- 
sured the final victory. In November a large British force advanced 
from Canada to Ticonderoga and completed the devastation that had 
been begun on both sides of the lake ; a foray, which, if justified by the 
laws of war, wrought but little benefit to the British, while it caused 
much unnecessary suffering. 

The early part of 1779 brought to the inhabitants of Tryon county 
a repetition of the events of the preceding year. The Mohawk valley 
once more became the scene of scalping and plundering, and among 
the settlements first to suffer from Indian savages and cruelty were 
Stone Arabia and a small hamlet south of the Mohawk. In both 
instances men were either killed or carried into captivity. At the 
same time a band of Senecas made an attack upon Schoharie, with the 
scalping knife and torch, and compelled the settlers to fiee for their lives. 
The Palatine committee of safety at last was compelled to ask protection 
from General Clinton, and the latter responded with a detachment of 



JOHNSON'S RAID. 9T 

troops which swept the savages from the valley and inflicted severe 
piinisliment wherever they were found. The Onondagas were among- 
those upon whom Clinton's force had visited summary justice, and in 
revenge, they attacked Cobleskill, killed a number of its people and 
plundered the settlement. In the meantime Brant extended his preda- 
tory warfare into the Hudson river country, and massacred, plundered 
and burned wherever an opportunity offered. 

These atrocities at last became so numerous that the authorities were 
thoroughly aroused and determined to draw upon the troops in service 
for a general expedition against the Indians. The plan of the campaign 
called for two forces, one under General Sullivan to march through the 
Susquehanna and Chemung valleys ; and thence down Seneca Lake to 
destroy the Seneca villages, while the other force, under General Clinton, 
was to sweep through the Mohawk Valley and thence westward and 
punish all the hostile tribes. Both of these movements were entirely 
successful, and the result was that the Indians, especially the fierce 
Senecas, were driven to the protection of the British post at Fort 
Niagara. Their villages and growing crops were destroyed, and there- 
after they were obliged to rely on the generosity of the British for their 
support. 

We now approach that most horrible episode in Tryon county history 
known as " Sir John Johnson's raid." In the spring of 1780 (May 21) 
Sir John came from Canada by Lake Champlain to Crown Point, at the 
head of a force of five hundred British troops, a detachment of his own 
Royal Greens, and about 200 Indians and tories. From Crown Point 
he made his way through the forest to the Sacandaga river, and at mid- 
night entered the north part of Johnstown so stealthily as to take the 
slumbering inhabitants unawares. He divided his force into two bodies 
in order that they might cover more territory, and then he enacted a 
series of atrocities from whose record history almost recoils. Families 
were aroused from slumber by the terrific war whoop, and men, women 
and children were brutally slaughtered, their dwellings burned and their 
property destroyed. Even the lapse of a century has hardly abated the 
horror which accompanied the memories of Sir John's infernal purpose 
and the Mohawk valley was fearfully ravaged by his barbarous horde. 
An important object in the cowardly invasion was the recovery of some 



92 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

valuable plate which had been buried at the time of Sir John's flight in 
1776. Since that time it had been faithfully guarded by one of his 
former slaves, who, with the aid of the soldiers, disinterred the silver and 
laid it at his master's feet, and it was divided among forty soldiers for 
transportation to Montreal. Such we say was the leading object in Sir 
John's invasion, but only a man of his malignity could have added the 
horrors which he wrought merely to gratify brutal revenge. 

Having secured the plate they passed on through the village unob- 
served by the garrison that occupied •the stockade around the jail and 
resumed their hellish task. The first family to feel their malice was 
that of Sampson Sammons, who with his three sons, Jacob, Frederick 
and Thomas, were made prisoners. No doubt they were worth more 
alive than dead The dwelling was plundered, after which the invaders 
joined the eastern division at the north of the Cayadutta. 

The other force, led, as it was believed, by two notorious tory broth- 
ers named Brown, passed at once through Johnstown to the vicinity of 
Tribes Hill, and thence all through the river country, both east and 
west of Caughnawaga, the\- wreaked vengeance on the unprotected 
inhabitants. Ludowick Putnam and his son were first butchered, their 
property stolen or destroyed, but the females of tlie family escaped. 
Amasa Stevens, son-in-law of Putnam, was also killed, but his wife also 
escaped. Garrett Putnam was an intended victim, but had recently 
moved away after renting his house to two tories. The house of Henry 
Hanson was likewise plundered and its owner murdered. In fact the 
property of every patriot in the locality ivas robbed or destroyed, 
and only that belonging to the tories was spared. The church and 
parsonage at Caughnawaga M-ere also unmolested, being prominent fea- 
tures in the estate of Sir William Johnson. At the latter place Douw 
Fonda was killed and scalped ; and it was said that he was one of the 
nine aged men, four of whom were more than eighty years old, who 
were slain during Sir John's raid. His descendants are still prominent 
citizens of the valley and tradition preserves the spot where he was so 
cruelh- massacred. 

Returning from the Mohawk vailej- the raiders again visited the Sam- 
mons place and took away seven horses. The Hall was also revisited. 
Sir John remaining there several hours and regaining possession of 



CARLETON'S RAID. 93 

about twenty of his former slaves who had remained behind at the time 
of his flight, and who now accompanied him to Canada. Among these 
was the trusted and faithful William, who had concealed the plate. He 
had previously been in the service of Jacob Sammons (who had rented 
the estate and Hall from the commissioners) but he would never dis- 
close the place of concealment. 

At the time of this bloody invasion Governor Clinton was at Kings- 
ton. He hastened to Albany, collected such militia as were in his com- 
mand and marched to Lake George to intercept Sir John. Colonel 
Van Schaick also, with 700 men (part being of the Mohawk valley 
militia) followed the invaders by the way of Johnstown to cut off their 
retreat by the Oswego route. The governor descended Lake George to 
Ticonderoga, where he was joined by a body of militia, but all these 
efforts to cut off Sir John's retreat were ineffectual and the monster es- 
caped with his horde, taking their boats, probably at Crown Point, 
whence they proceeded down the lake to St. John. Their captives (in- 
cluding the brothers Jacob and Frederick Sammon.s) were thence trans- 
ferred to the fort at Chambly. 



CHAPTER XL 



Additional Depredations in the Mohawk Valley — Sir John Johnson again Invades 
the Region — The Battle at Stone Arabia — Van Rensselaer's Cowardly Conduct — Con- 
dition of the Inhabitants after the Raid — Governor Clinton sends Colonel Willett to 
Protect the Valley — Invasion by Brant and Butler — Defeat of the latter by Willett's 
Troops — Battle at Johnstovi'n — The Enemy Routed — Death of Walter Butler — End 
of Hostilities in the Mohawk Valley. 

THE devastation and bloodshed that had thus far marked the track of 
war throughout the states was now approaching an end, but in the 
autumn of 1780, and simultaneous with the movement of Sir John 
Johnson in the Mohawk country, the enemy actively engaged against 
the settlements north of Albany, and also upon the upper Connecticut 
river. In order to create a diversion in favor of Sir John, Major Carle- 
ton came up the lake with a large fleet, and more than l,000 men. 



94 TIISTOKY OF MOMTGOMRRY (X)UNTY. 

This invasion was secretly conducted and readied Fort Anne and Fort 
George undiscovered, both posts being captured, with 120 prisoners. 
Stories of cruelty were told about Carleton's troops, but were positively 
denied by that officer. It is certain, however, that destruction and 
outrage followed the invaders as far as the country offered anything 
that could gratify this purpose, except on the eastern shores of 
the lake. There the inhabitants were fortunately exempted from at- 
tack through the remarkable statesmanship of Generals Ethan and Ira 
Allen and Governor Chittenden. More than that, by their efforts there 
was kept inactive in Canada a British army of nearly 10,000 effective 
men. The inter-communications which occurred were called the Hald- 
iman correspondence, or negotiations with Canada, and although 
conducted in entire good faith on the part of the astute Vermonters, the 
latter were nevertheless charged by the authorities of New York with 
treasonable intent; but without regard to public opinion on that jioint, 
the patriotism of the men connected with it can never be doubted nor 
the value of their services be diminished. 

Returning to the history of old Tryon, it may be said that while 
other portions of the country were now comparatively free from the 
horrors of war, the Mohawk valley was destined to be the scene of 
British outrages for many months to come. In the latter part of 1780 
Sir John Johnson made a second invasion of the valley, with the evi- 
dent determination to destroy every vestige of property, and even the 
lives of the inhabitants. After his first raid Governor Clinton ordered 
Colonel Ganesvoort to Fort Plain with the militia of the county in 
order to protect the locality, and also guard the supplies in store at 
Fort Schuyler. At the same time Brant, with his blood-thirsty sav- 
ages, was hovering in the region, ready to fall upon any unprotected 
settlement and thus increase that long record of murder which bore 
testimony in the highest of tribunals against him and his instigators. 
Being informed by the tories of the valley that a patriot force was about 
to defend Fort Plain, Brant made a sudden descent upon Canajoharie 
and the fort itself, burning buildings and destroying property without 
the restraint of mercy, and Ganesvoort was so sluggish in his move- 
ments that no hand was raised to defend either life or property from the 
Indian invader. 



VAN RENSSELAER'S COWARDICE. 95 

Soon after this Sir John Johnson again repeated his vengeance upon 
the already distressed people of the country. In his command were 
the now notorious Greens, the German Yagers, Butler's two hundred 
rangers, a company of British regulars and a body of Indians under 
Brant and tlie still more dreaded Seneca chief, Cornplanter. During 
the early part of this foray Sir John was nowliere opposed by any con- 
siderable force, and was thus at full liberty to pillage, burn and destroy 
everything except the property of the tories. This naturally led to 
retaliation, and after he had passed up the Mohawk the ruined patriots 
revenged themselves by destroying in turn the buildings and harvested 
crops of the British sympathizers. On the i8th of October Sir John 
camped at the " Nose," but the next morning sent a detachment against 
Stone Arabia (then called Fort Paris), following soon afterward with 
his main force. General Van Rensselaer was sent to oppose the inva- 
ders, having in his command the Albany militia, and reached Caugh- 
nawaga on the i8th. Learning that Fort Plain was to be attacked. 
Colonel Brown was sent to engage the enemy in front, while Van Rens- 
selaer himself was to make a diversion and attack them from another 
quarter ; but whether from cowardice or sympathy for the British, he 
changed his course and left Brown without support; the result was the 
defeat and death of the gallant colonel, while the enemy were still 
further allowed to ravage the country. , Van Rensselaer displayed even 
greater cowardice, for later on, having been reinforced by Captain Mc- 
Kean's company and about eighty Oneida braves, so that his troops 
outnumbered the enemy, he again refrained from attack. At last he 
was openly charged with toryism by an Oneida chief, which, with the 
importunities of his subordinate officers, forced him to prepare for bat- 
tle, and after a severe engagement the British were routed, but the 
cowardly American commander refused to follow up his victory, not- 
withstanding the entreaties of his men. He fell back and encamped, 
while some of the volunteers and Oneidas pursued the British and cap- 
tured a cannon and a number of prisoners, but by the next morning the 
enemy had retreated beyond successful pursuit. 

The outrages committed by the British and their savage allies in the 
Mohawk valley during the several years ending with the close of 1780, 
had left the inhabitants in a most deplorable condition. Their houses 



96 HISTORY OF MONTaOMERY COUNTY. 

and other buildings were now burned to the ground, their crops had 
been completely destroyed, and they were obliged to look for shelter 
and support to the people more fortunate than themselves, who occupied 
the larger and more protected settlements in the eastern part of the 
valle}-. On the 20th of December, 1 780, the supervisors of Tryon 
county reported to the legislature the condition in which their people 
were left at that time, and from this sad report it appeared that seven 
hundred buildings had been burned ; six hundred and thirteen persons 
had gone over to the enemy ; three hundred and forty-four families 
had abandoned their homes and property ; one hundred and seventy- 
seven lives had been lost ; one hundred and twenty-one persons had 
been carried into captivity, while one thousand farms in the country 
were without care or cultivation. 

Such a lamentable state of affairs could not but move the authorities 
to some action in behalf of the distressed people, but even then Brant 
was skulking in the vicinity, only awaiting an opportunity to attack 
some defenceless settlement, and the only remedy lay in levying a suffi- 
cient armed force to guarantee safety to the people so that they might 
return to their homes. The militia was greatly reduced in numbers and 
efficiency, and the partial destruction of Fort Schuyler by fire and flood 
left the whole valley open to the enemy. In this extremity Governor 
Clinton determined to detach a part of his own army for the defence of 
the western frontier, and accordingly Colonel Willett was sent with a 
body of troops to protect the region from an invasion. Willett col- 
lected together about one hundred militia men, added to these his state 
troops, and stationed his force at Fort Plain, but was soon called into 
action, being on July 9 summoned to repel an invasion atCurrytown, 
about three miles from Sprakers. The marauders were tories and In- 
dians led by one Doxtader, who attacked the settlement, destroyed 
much property, and made off with nine prisoners. Willett at once 
marched to the scene of danger, but unlike his timid predecessor, de- 
ployed his men so as to draw the British into an ambuscade, and as a 
result the latter were terribly beaten and routed. In this sharp fight 
the efforts of Colonel Willett were materially aided by the zeal and 
bravery of Lieut. Jacob Sammons and Captain McKean. 

The vigilance of Willett and his men put a check upon the ravages of 
the tories and the Indians, but did not entirely end them, as marauding 



WILLETT'S LAST BATTLE. 9T 

parties still continued petty depredations. The tories were, as Willett 
found, more dreaded than the Indians, for they moved so covertly and 
with such well laid plans and united action as to render them danger- 
ous in the extreme. During the latter part of October, a party of these 
tories, together with a few Indians under Ross and Butler, again entered 
the valley and ravaged the country from Currytown to Warrensbush and 
Fort Hunter. They then changed their course towards Johnstown, 
having increased their force to about one thousand, composed of British 
regulars as well as tories and Indians. Willett pursued with only about 
four hundred and sixteen men, but he determined to give them a battle 
regardless of the disparity of numbers. To do this successfully, the in- 
trepid commander divided his force into two parts, and with his main 
body under his own command he attacked the enemy in front, while 
about sixty men under Colonel Rowley (a Massachusetts officer) made 
a detour in order to attack them in the rear. On the level land oppo- 
site Johnson Hall, where the orchard now stands, the contending forces 
first met. Willett's men fought with determination, but being over- 
powered by the superior number of the enemy, he was compelled to 
fall back to the village. This was a dangerous movement but he was 
saved from what might have been a rout by Rowley's little troop which 
fell unexpectedly upon the Brirish rear with such valor as to create a 
diversion. The British were obliged to turn and act on the defensive, 
upon which Willett rallied his men and renewed the battle. Although 
assailed both in front and rear the invaders kept up their fight until 
night, when weary and suffering severely in losses, they wavered and 
broke into precipitate flight to the woods. This was the last battle 
fought in Tryon county, and really was the last in the entire record of 
the Revolution, and in this final conflict the faithful Tryon county mili- 
tia had the satisfaction of inflicting satisfactory chastisement on their tory 
enemies. In the battle of Johnstown the loss in killed was about forty 
on each side, but the Americans made prisoners of fifty of the enemy 
and those who escaped did not halt until they had put a long distance 
between themselves and their conquerers. 

Early on the morning of the 26th (the day following the Johnstown 
battle) Colonel Willett started in pursuit of the foe. He marched as 
rapidly as possible to Stone Arabia, and believirjg the fugitives had 



S8 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

gone toward Oneida lake, sent thither a detachment to destroy their 
boats, while he halted expecting a possible attack, but as it did not take 
place he resumed his march. But his men instead of taking the lake 
route turned northward to Canada Creek, where Willett overtook them. 
He fell on their rear and punished them severely, taking many prison- 
ers and killing others. Butler crossed the creek and made an attempt 
to rally his men, but in doing so was discovered by an Oneida chief, 
who shot him. The fall of their leader so dismayed the British and 
Indians that they fled in confusion and sought shelter wherever it offered. 
The Oneidas now crossed the creek and dispatched the famous Butler 
as he lay prostrate on the ground. Colonel Willett having now deliv- 
ered the valley from terror returned in triumph to Fort Dayton, having 
lost only one of his men since the Johnstown battle. 

Although the close of the year 1781, found the heavy operations of 
war practically at an end, the peace of the people living in the Mohawk 
valley was not fully assured. An occasional band of marauding Indians 
would unexpectedly appear, commit some outrage and then quickly 
depart to safe refuge. One of these invasions took place during the 
summer of 1782, when a body of seven savages appeared near Johns- 
town and killed Henry Stoner, a noted settler, and also made prisoners 
of his nephew, Michael Reid, and a man named Palmatier. The Indians 
also burned the Stoner buildings. This act of outrage was afterward 
fearfully avenged by the noted Nicholas Stoner, son of the murdered 
pioner. Andrew Bowman, a tory living near Johnstown, bore a part in 
the above mentioned outrage for which he was afterward made to suffer 
a suitable punishment from the indignant patriots of the town. 



AFTER THE RBVOLTJTIOM. 



CHAPTER XII. 

Condition of the Mohawlc Valley at the close of the Revolution — Mohawk Indians 
Forfeit their Lands to the State — Return of the Tories — Their Treatment by the Mo- 
hawk Committee — Settlement of the Region by New Englanders — Tryon County 
Changed to Montgomery — First County Officers — County Buildings — Counties 
Formed from Montgomery. 

THE close of the revolutionary war and the return of peace marked 
a new era in the history of the Mohawk valley. Returning to 
their deserted lands and property, the patriot settlers found little else 
than ruin and desolation ; their buildings had been burned and the 
harvested and growing crops almost wholly destroyed. Their cattle, 
too, had been driven off by the recent invaders, and they were obliged 
to begin life anew. They had, however, this consolation that they no 
longer feared the wily Indian, nor the malignant tory, for the fortunes 
of war had driven them from the country. 

The Mohawk Indians by their alliance to the British, shared the ill- 
fate of a fallen power, and forfeited whatever claim that they may have 
had to the lands which they formerly occupied, and while, as a rule, the 
Six Nations were kindly treated by both the general and state govern- 
ments, the hostility of the Mohawks had been such as to cancel their 
claims to the territory of the valley. There is not, indeed, any reliable 
proof that this tribe ever made a demand for their lands, and the shat- 
tered remnant of a once powerful nation accepted the offer made by 
Great Britain of a home in Canada. With the tories who had cast in 
their lot with the British, the case appears to have been quite different, 
for almost immediately after the restoration of peace they returned to 
their former homes and proclaimed ownership, insisting on legal title. 
Fortunately, however, and justly also, they were not successful for the 
property of the defeated foe by the rules of war became forfeited to the 
conquerors. 

We cannot but notice that the effrontery of the tory in peace was 
only equalled by his barbarity in war, and hence, as has been stated. 



100 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERY COUNTY. 

after tlie struggle was ended he loudly asserted his rights to his former 
estate. So annoying, indeed, did this false but persistent assertion of 
right become that the people of the Mohawk district were under the 
necessity of taking public action in the matter, and therefore held a 
meeting on May 9, 1793, on which occasion they expressed themselves 
in this manner : " Resolved, unanimously, that all those who have gone 
off to the enemy or have been banished by any law of this state, or 
those who we shall find tarried as spies or tools of the enemy, and en- 
couraged or harbored those who vi'ent away, shall not live in this dis- 
trict or any pretense whatever ; and as for those who have washed their 
faces from Indian paint and their hands from the innocent blood of our 
dear ones, and have returned, either openlj^ or covertly, we hereby 
warn them to leave this district before the 20th of June next, or they 
may expect to feel the first resentment of an injured and determined 
people. 

" We likewise unanimously desire our brethren in the other districts 
in this county to join with us to instruct our representatives not to con- 
sent to the repealing of any law made for the safety of the state against 
treason, or confiscation of traitors' estates or to passing any new acts 
for the return or restitution of tories. By order of the meeting. 
Josiah Throop, chairman." 

In and about the county seat of Tryon county was perhaps a greater 
number of tories than in any other locality in the entire region. Johns- 
town was founded, and virtually owned by Sir William Johnson and 
through his efforts the local population was mainly acquired. Upon 
his death, the property and estate descended to his son (Sir John), whose 
conduct during the war was of so base a character as to justify a far more 
detestable expression than merely " tory." He was a blood-thirsty and 
a relentless enemy, combining the worst elements of toryism with the 
inhuman methods of war only resorted to by savages. He never came 
back to Johnstown to claim his vast and valuable estate, which was 
confiscated and sold by the state. Sir John himself remained in Cana- 
da and received from the crown an appointment as superintendent and 
inspector of Indian affairs in British North America. He died in Mon- 
treal Januarj' 4, 1830. 

Among Sir John's dependents were the tenants settled on his lands 
in and about Johnstown, and the Scotch Highlanders who dwelt upon 





^^.2^^^ 



INFLUX OF NEW ENGLANDERS. 101 

the Kingsboro tract (then a part of the Mohawk district), also a part of 
Caughnavvaga. The tenantry and Scotchmen were provided with fire- 
arms by the proprietor, and of course departed with him to Canada, 
thenceforth forming a part of the "Royal Greens" regiment. What- 
ever claim to the lands of the Mohawk region they may have acquired 
was likewise forfeited, and they never returned. 

Of the German settlers in the valley, however, it must in justice be 
said that they were generally loyal to the colonies, and although a few 
— and only a few — may have been misled by the influence of the arbi- 
trary baronet and his associates, this was the exception, not the rule. 

During the course of the war, this portion of the state became known 
to a class of people who had no former means of judging of its beauty 
and fertility. The continual passage of New England troops through 
the valley of the Mohawk made them acquainted with its desirability 
as a place of abode, and, when peace was restored, they were not slow 
to avail themselves of the opportunity of possessing the lands. They 
came and made miscellaneous settlements as the tracts were offered for 
sale, and thus the territory came under the control of Yankees, deter- 
mined, energetic and upright men with wives and mothers of corres- 
ponding character, and it was to this class of people that Montgomery 
and Fulton counties chiefly owed much of their later development and 
improvement. 

There was one name, however, in this beautiful region that was the 
occasion of much annoyance to the progressive inhabitants, being in- 
deed in the highest degree offensive, and that was the name by which 
this county was then called. Governor William Tryon first became 
executive of the province of New York by appointment, July 9, 1771, 
and was reappointed June 28, 177S, and it was in his honor that the 
newly formed county received its name. Tryon's toryism was as pro- 
nounced and offensive as that of any British subject in the land. His 
official power was wholly devoted to the crown, and he was even im- 
plicated in a plot to seize General Washington and deliver him to the 
British. It was not, therefore, in the least surprising' that tlie settlers 
of the Mohawk valley should object to so odious a name. 

Tryon county was created from the original county of Albany by act 
of the Provincial Assembly, March 12, 1772, and Johnstown was desig- 



102 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

nated as its capital. The officers were as follows: Guy Johnson, first 
judge; John Butler and Peter Conyne, judges ; Sir John Johnson, Dan- 
iel Claus, Jelles Fonda and John Wells, assistant judges. The first 
county court was organized Septeniber 8, 1772. The court-house and 
jail of Trj'on county were erected in 1772 by Sir William Johnson, and 
on his own land. Both of these buildings are still in use, and having 
been occasionally repaired, are still in good condition and may last an- 
other century. The former, which fully retains its original appearance, 
stands on the northwest corner of William and Main streets. The jail, 
a spacious stone edifice, stands in the southeast corner of the village on 
the highest part of South Perry street. 

At the outbreak of the war these buildings were claimed by Sir John 
Johnson as a part of his estate ; and he therefore refused the county 
Committee of Safety permission to use them for the confinement of 
those who were considered inimical to the American cause. This claim, 
however, was denied by the provisional congress, which held that Sir 
William Johnson had, some time before his death, conveyed them " to 
two gentlemen, in trust " for the use of the county. The committee 
did not at that time press its demand, but after the departure of Sir 
John and his retainers, the local authorities seized all the property and 
used it according to their needs. The jail was fortified and thus be- 
came a place of defence in addition to the purpose for which it was 
originally intended. 

On the 2d of April, 1784, the legislature passed an act changing the 
narne from Tryon to Montgomery county, adopting the latter in honor 
of Gen. Richard Montgomery, who was killed at the storming of Que- 
bec, December 31, 1776. The statement has been made in one of our 
earlier chapters (and its accuracy has never been doubted) that Tryon 
county comprised all that part of the province of New York west of the 
Delaware river, and also west of aline extending north through Scho- 
harie (as well as all along the east lines of the present counties of Mont- 
gomery, Fulton, and Hamilton, and continuing in a straight line to 
Canada. On the 7th of March, 1788, the legislature passed an act by 
which the boundary lines of the several counties of the state were de- 
scribed more accurately and in detail; and this act declared Montgom- 
gomery county to contain all that part of the state west of the counties 



FORMATION OF COUNTIES. 103 

of Ulster, Albany, Washington and Clinton, as they were then consti- 
tuted. On the other hand, the " Civil List of the State of New York," 
published in 1866, says: " Tryon county was erected in 1772, and 
comprised the country west of a north and south line extending from 
St. Regis to the west bounds of the township of Schenectady; thence 
running irregulary southwest to the head of the Mohawk branch of the 
Delaware, and along the same to the southeast bounds of the present 
county of Broome ; thence in a northwesterly direction to Fort Bull, on 
Wood creek, near the present city of Rome ; all west of the last men- 
tioned line being Indian territory." This statement, if correct, limits 
Tryon county to a comparatively small area ; but the question, which 
statement is correct, is not one for the writer to decide. The weight 
of authority, however, strongly inclines us to the conviction that Try- 
on (succeeded by Montgomery) included all that part of the state west 
of the east line above mentioned ; while all authorities substantially 
agree upon its east boundary. 

It is interesting in the present connection to note the several counties 
of the state which have been in whole or in part formed from the terri- 
tory originally of old Tryon or Montgomery county; the list, with date 
of erection, being as follows : Ontario, January 27, 1789; Herkimer, 
February 16, 1791 ; Otsego, February 16, 1791 ; Tioga, February 16, 
1791 ; Onondaga, March 5, 1794; Schoharie (one-half), April 6, 1795; 
Steuben, March 18, 1796; Delaware (part only), March i, 1797; Che- 
nango, March 15, 1798; Oneida, March 15, 1798; Cayuga, March 8, 
1799; St. Lawrence (part only), March 3, 1802; Genesee, March 30, 
1802; Seneca, March 24, 1804; Jefferson, March 28, 1805; Lewis, 
March 28, 1805 ; Madison, March 21, 1806; Broome, March 28, 1806; 
Alleghany, April 7, 1806; Cattaraugus, March 11, 1808; Chautauqua, 
March 11, 1808; Niagara, March 11, 1808; Cortland, April 8, 1808; 
Oswego, March i, 18 16; Hamilton, April 12, 18 16; Tompkins, April 
7, 1817 ; Livingston, February 23, 1821 ; Monroe, February 23, 1821; 
Erie, April 2, 1821; Yates, February 5, 1823; Wayne, April 11, 1823; 
Orleans, November 12, 1824; Chemung, March 29, 1836; F"ulton, 
April 18, 1838; Wyoming, May 14, 1841 ; Schuyler, April 17, 1854. 



104 HISTORY OP MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

Situation in the Moliawk Valley Prior to the War — Its Peace and Prosperity — 
Events Preceding the War — Causes Leading; to it — British Aggressions — American 
Retaliations — Declaration of War — Militia Called into Service — Regiments Formed 
in the Valley — Their Services — The Return of Peace. 

rOR more than a quarter of a century following the close of the 
revolution, nothing occurred to interrupt or retard the progress of 
settlement and development in the Mohawk valley. During this period 
indeed the latter was favored in an unusual degree. The New 
England pioneers were a hardy and patriotic class, and under their 
energetic efforts lands were cleared and the forests gave place to farms 
of rare fertility, thus developing the agricultural resources, at least to 
an extent which supplied domestic requirements. 

While speaking of the New Englanders, hovvever,we are not to be mis- 
understood as giving this class undue prominence. They bore their 
share in general improvement, but only extended the settlement of the 
original pioneers. The sturdy Dutch and equally sturdy Germans were 
here long in advance of the Yankees, but they found homes near the 
Mohawk, while in the territory now included in Montgomery county the 
New England colonies made their successful efforts. Here, too, how- 
ever, soon appeared the German element, the descendants of the Pala- 
tines, and others of the same nation imbued with the same spirit of en- 
terprise and progress. During the period referred to, this region 
acquired its greatest comparative growth in population, and with this 
came power to sustain the nation during peril. Hence when the first 
murmurings of another war with Great Britain were heard, this part of 
the state were well prepared to endure its hardships and its taxation and 
the part that it bore in the great conflict must be made the subject of 
special mention. In one respect at least the people of this locality were 
favored during the course of the war of l8 12-15. I* was that they had 
not to defend their home against hostile Indians, and in the war-like 
preparations which were made in Montgomery county no force was re- 



CAUSES FOR THE WAR OF 1812. 105- 

quired to protect the rapidly increasing settlement. Let us now, how- 
ever, briefly refer to the causes which led to the war, after which we 
shall mention the service which the soldiers of this county endured. 

During the five years immediately preceding the war of 1812, the 
whole country was in a state of nominal peace, but still there was 
gathering in the political horizon a dark cloud which increased until it 
boded another foreign war. During the revolution, America contended 
for independence and won that precious boom; in 18 12 she fought to 
maintain that independence on which British aggression had insolently 
trespassed. 

The United States had always honorably observed the provisions of 
the treaty made with Great Britain at the close of the Revolution. 
There had been maintained, too, a strict neutrality during the progress 
of the Napoleonic war when, perhaps, every consideration of gratitude 
should have induced an alliance against the mother country. For 
several years the aggressive acts of the British had been a subject of 
anxiety and regret to all Americans and indeed had created bitter 
indignation. The embargo laid by congress upon our shipping (as a 
means of safety) was found so injurious to commercial interests that it 
was repealed, and the non-intercourse act was passed in its stead. In 
April, 1809, the British embassador in Washington opened negotia- 
tions for the adjustment of existing difficulties, and consented to a with- 
drawal of the obnoxious British " orders in council," so far as they 
affected the United States, on condition that the non- intercourse act 
be repealed ; this was agreed upon and the president issued a proclama- 
tion announcing that on the loth of June, trade with Great Britain 
might be resumed. The British government, however, refused to ratify 
the proceedings and the minister was recalled, whereupon the president 
revoked his proclamation, and the non- intercourse act went into opera- 
tion. The most odious of all British aggressions was the claim made 
of " right to search," in pursuance of which British cruisers stopped 
American vessels on the ocean and seized such of their crews as they 
suspected to be subjects of the king, forcing them into their own service. 
This claim led to outrages to which no American could submit, and the 
only choice left to the nation was war or disgraceful humiliation. 

On the I2th of June, 1812, President Madison sent a confidential 
message to congress, in which he recapitulated the long list of British 



106 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

aggressions and declared it the duty of congress to consider whether 
the American people should longer passively submit; but at the same 
time he cautioned the house to avoid entanglements with other powers 
that then were hostile to Britain. 

The result of the message and the deliberation of congress was a 
formal declaration of war on the 19th of June, 1812, but the measure 
was not unanimously sustained or even approved in all parts of the 
Middle and New England States. The opponents held that the country 
was not prepared for war and asked for further negotiations. They 
also met the denunciations of the ruling party against the British with 
bitter attacks upon Napoleon, and accused Madison with favoring this 
bloody tyrant. The war party was led by Henry Clay and the oppo- 
sition by John Randolph, both men of ability and, in fact, the two giants 
of congress. 

A detail of the events of the war is not needed in these pages. The 
results of the struggle against renewed oppression are written in the 
conflicts of Lake Erie, the repulse of the invaders on the Delaware,the 
painful and humiliating scenes of the Chesapeake, the invasion of New 
York and the attempt to control the Hudson river and Lake Champlain. 
The story is further told in the brilliant victory at Plattsburg, the cap- 
ture of Niagara and Oswego, the battles at Black Rock, Lundy's Lane, 
Sacketts Harbor, closing with the glorious defence of New Orleans. 
Above all, however, were the masterly exploits of our navy whose 
victories over the British cruisers gave the enemy the most serious view 
of American prowess. Peace, however, came at last and the treaty was 
ratified February 15, 1815. 

The outbreak of the war of 18 12 awoke a tremendous impulse 
throughout this region of the country, for many of the settlers had seen 
service in the Revolution, and their sons were now enrolled in the militia. 
The same martial spirit which came with the pioneers was manifested 
in later years on the old fashioned " general training " when the farmer, 
the mechanic and the professional man hied to the annual " muster " 
for a season of jollification as well as for military discipline. 

In February, 1812, in view of approaching war, congress passed a 
law to organize an army of twenty-five thousand men, and shortly after- 
wards Daniel D. Tompkins, governor of the state, addressed the legis- 



COUMTY ORGANIZATIONS. lOr 

lature advising full preparation for the contest. In April following, 
100,000 of the nation's enrolled militia were called upon to organize 
for service, the quota of New York being 13,500 men, which were 
organized in two divisions and eight brigades. The fourth brigade 
comprised the loth, iith, I2th and 13th regiments, the members of 
which were from the Mohawk valley. This brigade was under com- 
mand of General Richard Dodge, then a resident of Johnstown. 

The services of the militia from this locality were important in 
character, though not specially severe. One of the brigades was 
stationed at Sacketts Harbor where its duty was to guard the supplies 
stored there, and as well defend that post. General Dodge made this 
his headquarters September 21, 1812. The post was afterwards, May 
24, 1813, attacked by the British, but they were repulsed. Neverthe- 
less, in the fear that the supplies might fall into the hands of the enemy, 
they were destroyed before the repulse was effected. The thirteenth 
regiment was in the battle at Queenstown Heights, but the principal 
service performed by it was guarding the frontier, and not only against 
the possibilities of invasion, but as well to prevent smuggling, which so 
often impaired our national revenue. 



CHAPTER XIV. 



County Organizations — Tryon and Montgomery Counties Briefly Reviewed — Tlie 
County Seat Moved to Fonda — Dissatisfaction in the Northern Towns — Fuhon 
County Created — Montgomery County Civil List. 

AS has been stated in our preceding chapters, Tryon county was 
created from the original county of Albany in 1772, and the seat 
of justice was immediately located at Johnstown. The public buildings, 
as has been previously mentioned, were erected by Sir William John- 
son, the founder of the village that still bears his name, and in fact the 
founder of Tryon county. After his death and during the earl_\- jears 
of the revolution. Sir John Johnson, as has also been mentioned, claimed 
ownership, as heir of his father, and denied the use of the court-house 



108 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and jail for the confinement of tories, this use being demanded by the 
patriotic committees. The government, on the other hand, claimed that 
Sir William had conveyed the property to two persons in trust for the 
people of Tryon county. This question, however, was finally settled 
by the flight of Sir John, and his entire estate was then confiscated and 
sold, the county buildings being thenceforth public property. Tryon 
county, as has been mentioned, received its name in honor of William 
Tryon, the governor of the province and a base tool in the royal service. 
He was wholly devoted to the British interests, and did everything in 
his power to defeat the cause of liberty. Hence it was only natural 
that his name should be offensive to the victorious Americans, and 
when, in 1784, the affairs of the state of New York were rearranged, no 
voice was raised against the proposal to change Tryon to Montgomery, 
thus substituting in place of a detested tory the name of a patriotic 
martyr. 

Montgomery county included the territorj- of Fulton county from 
1784 to 1838, a period of fifty-four years. During that time the pop- 
ulation of its towns increased in a manifold degree, and in no region 
was that increase more rapid than in the Mohawk valley. Amsterdam, 
Fultonville, Canajoharie, Fort Plain and other former hamlets had, by 
1836, become villages of importance, and their inhabitants (particularly 
the legal profession) were desirous for a change of the county seat from 
old historic Johnstown to some place more convenient of access. 

The arguments for the change, indeed, were well founded, Johnstown 
being several miles distant from the Mohawk river and separated by a 
hilly and ill-kept road, whose only public conveyance was the stage. 
Hence, when a strong petition of the river residents was presented to 
the legislature at the session of 1836, that body could not justly refuse 
the prayer, and Fonda was designated the county seat, the name being 
derived from that old and historic family whose descendants still dwell 
in the same vicinity. 

The conditions of the removal were that a subscription of $4,500 
should be raised, and that a free gift of not less than three acres be 
inade to the county upon which to erect the buildings. The court- 
house is of brick, and cost $30,500, which amount, however, included 
the cost of the first jail. 




61/^^^^^^)^ 7h 



^/ 



77-^ 



CIVIL LIST. 109 

The removal of the public buildings from Johnstown to Fonda, while 
it wrought a great benefit to the majority, naturally created deep indig- 
nation in the northern towns, whose inhabitants resisted it in the most 
intense manner, and only submitted with the hope of relief in the form- 
ation of a new county. The removal indeed led them to petition for a 
division of old Montgomery, and a new county became a necessity to 
the northern inhabitants. The legislature, in harmony with this move- 
ment, passed an act on April i8, 1838, creating Fulton county, Johns- 
town being naturally designated as the capital, and the old public build- 
ings were again brought into service. 

Montgomery county jail originally stood south of the court-house on 
the same lot, but in 1881 it was destroyed by fire. The new jail (and 
sheriff's residence) was built immediately, and cost the county $40,000. 
In this connection it may be well to insert the following inscription in 
the marble tablet over the main entrance to the court-house: "This 
building was erected in the year 1836 by Lawrence Marcellus, carpen- 
ter, and Henry Holmes, mason, under the charge of Aaron C. Whee- 
lock, Henry Adams and Hcwland Fish, commissioners charged with 
the erection." 

We now add the Montgomery county civil list : Presidential electors, 
Volkert Veeder, 1792; Charles Newkirk, 1796; Matthias B. Hildreth, 
1804; Henry Yates, jr., 1808; Henry Frey Yates, 1812; Aaron Har- 
ing, 1816; Seth Wetmore, 1820 ;i Alexander Coffin, 1824; Rufus 
Crane, 1828; John S. Veeder, 1832; Frederick Sammons, 1836; 
Henry P. Voorhees, 1 840; Stephen Sanford, 1872. 

Representatives in Congress. — Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, 1789-91 ; 
James Gordon, 1791-93 ; Silas Talbot, 1793-95 ; William Cooper, 1795- 
97; James Cochran, 1797-99; Jonas Piatt, 1799-1801 ; Benjamin 
Walker, 1 801-03 ; Thomas Sammons, 1803-05, 1805-07, 1809-11, 
1811-13; Peter Swart, 1807-09; Jacob Markell, 18 1 3-1 5 ; Daniel 
Cady, 1815-17; John Herkimer, 1817-19; John Fay, 1819-21 ; Al- 
fred Conkling, 1821-23; John W. Cady, 1823-25; Henry Markell, 
1825-27; 1827-29; Benedict Arnold, 1829-31; Nathan Soule, 1831- 
33; Charles McVean, 1833-35; Matthias J. Bovee, 1835-37; John 
Edwards, 1837-39; Peter J. Wagner, 1839-41 ; John Sanford, 1841- 

' Did not attend ; William I. Dodge appointed to fill vacancy. 



110 HISTOUY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

43; Charles Renton, 1843-45-47; George Petrie, 1847-49; Henry P. 
Alexander, 1849-51 ; Alexander H. Bull, 1851-53; Peter Rowe, 1853- 
55; Thomas R. Horton, 1855-57 ; Clarke B. Cochran, 1857-59-61 j 
Chauncey Vibbard, 1861-63 ; James M. Marvin, 1863-65-67-69; 
Stephen Sanford, 1869-71; John M. Carroll, 1871-73; Henry W. 
Harthorn, 1873-75-77; John H. Starin, 1877-79-81; George West, 
1881-83, Edward Wemple, 1883-85 ; George West, 1885-87 ; John 
Sanford, 1887-89-91. 

Justices of the Supreme Court. — Frothingham Fish, 18S3 ; Martin L. 
Stover, 1 89 1. 

Delegates to Constitutional Convention of 1788. — John Frey, Will- 
iam Harper, Henry Staring, Volkert Veeder, John Winn, Christopher 
P. Yates. Convention of 1801. — Nathaniel Campbell, Jonathan Hal- 
iett, John Herkimer, Thomas Sammons, Peter Waggoner, jr., Caleb 
Woodworth. Convention of 1821. — William I. -Dodge, Howland Fish, 
Jacob Hess, Philip Rhinelander, jr., Alexander Sheldon. Convention 
of 1846. — John Bowdish, John Nellis. Convention of 1867. — Alonzo 
C. Paige (at large), Hezekiah Baker, Judson S. Landon, Albert Pond, 
and Horace E. Smith, representing the fifteenth district. 

State Comptroller. — Edward Wemple, 1888-90; 1890-92. 

State Senators. — Previous to the constitutional convention of 182 1, 
Montgomery county formed a part of the western district, which sent 
in 1777 six representatives to the state senatorial body; they were 
Isaac Paris, Abraham Yates, jr., Dirck W. Ten Broek, Anthony Van 
Schaick, Jelles Fonda, and Rinier Mynderse Jelles Fonda was in the 
same body in 1779-80-81-88-89-90-91 ; Abraham Yates, jr., in 1778- 
80-81-82-83-84-85-86-87-88-89-90 ; Jacob G. Klock in 1778-79- 
80-81-82-83-84-85. The senators representing the county since the 
convention of 1 82 1 have been as follows : Archibald Mclntyre, 1823- 
26; Duncan McMartin, 1827-30; William I. Dodge, 1831-34; Jacob 
Willes, 1835; David Spraker, 1836-39; Bethuel Peck, 1840-42; 
Thomas B. Mitchell, 1843-46; Thomas Burtch, 1848-49; George H. 
Fox, 1850-51 ; (Fox resigned April 17, John Sanford elected to va- 
cancy); Simeon Snow, 1852-53; George Yost, 1854-55; Frederick P. 
Bellinger, 1856-57 ; George G. Scott, 1858-59 ; Isaiah Blood, 1860- 
61 ; John Willard,! 1862-63 ; William Clark, 1863 ; James M. Cook, 

> Died In ofiSce. 



CIVIL LIST. Ill 

1864-65 ; Adam W. Kline, 1866-67 ; Charles Sanford, 1868-69; Isa- 
iah Blood, 1870-71 ; Webster Wagner,i 1872-81 ; Alexander B. Bau- 
cus, 1882-83 ; James Arkell, 1884-85; John Foley, 1886-87 ; Charles 
Donaldson, 1888-89, 1890-91. 

Members of Assembly 2 — Samuel Clyde, Zephaniah Batcheller, 
Michael Edic, Jacob Snell, 1777; George H.Bell, Samuel Clyde, Mi- 
chael Edic, Jacob Snell, Peter Wagoner, jr., 1778; G. H. Bell, Abraham 
Copeland, Peter S. Dygert, Frederick Fox, Jacob Gardner, Peter Wag- 
oner, jr., 1779; Z. Batcheller, A. Copeman, P. S. Dygert, F. Fox, J. 
Gardineer, P. Wagoner, 1780 ; J. Gardineer, Abraham Garrison, Will- 
iam Harper, P. Wagoner, jr., Z. Batcheller, 1781 ; Z. Batcheller, Fred- ,, 
erick Fisher, John Frey, Andrew Frick, jr., A. Garrison, William Har- ^ 
per, 1782; Z. Batcheller, F. Fisher, John Frey, Andrew Frick, jr., "^ ^ 
1783; A. Copeman, F. Fox, William Harper, James Livingston, Vol- 
kert Veeder, Chris. P. Yates, Isaac Paris, 1784; Fox, Harper, Living- 
ston, Paris, Veeder, Yates, 1785 ; Abraham Arndt, John Frey, Will- 
iam Harper, James Livingston, V. Veeder, Abraham Van Home, 1786; 
James Cannon, J. Frey, William Harper, J Livingston, 1787; Arndt, 
Frey, Harper, John Livingston, Paris, Henry Staring, Veeder, John 
Winn, C. P. Yates, 17S8 ; Arndt, Frey, Harper, Livingston, David 
McMasters, Staling, Veeder, Winn, Yates, 1789; Arndt, Livingston, 
McMasters, Veeder, 1790; Arndt, Frey, Livingston, John P. Vischer 
(Fisher), 1791 ; Jacob Eacker, Douw Fonda, Frey, McMasters, Silas 
Talbot, Simeon Veeder, 1792; Eacker, McMasters, Talbot, Veeder, 
1793 ; Eacker, Frederick Getman, John McArthur, McMasters, Veeder, 
1794; Fonda, Getman, McMasters, Veeder, 1795 ; David Cady, Eack- 
er, Getman, John C. Van Epps, Peter Veeder, Simeon Veeder, 1796; 
Eacker, Getman, Van Epps, Peter and Simon Veeder, 1797 ; Getman, 
James Hildreth, Robert McFarlan, Archibald Mclntyre, Henry Pawl- 
ing, Stephen Reynolds, Jacob Snell, Phillip Van Alstyne, Simeon 
Veeder, Peter Voorhees, 1798; Cornelius Humphrey, Mclntyre, Snell, 
Veeder, Frederick Sammons, John Herkimer, 1799; Humphrey, Mcln- 
tyre, Snell, Veeder, Yates, Alex. Sheldon, 1800; Mclntyre, Sammons, 
Snell, Charles Ward, Yates, Sheldon, 1801 ; Sheldon, Daniel Walker, 

1 Died January 13, 1882. 

2 Date of election given. Session begins January ist thereafter. 



112 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Ward, Henry Kennedy, John Roof, i802; Sheldon, Herkhner, David 
I. Ziely, Kennedy, Mclntyre, 1803 ; John Seeber, Sheldon, Zieley, 
Mclntyre, Jonathan Hallet, 1804; Joseph Wagoner, Sheldon, Herki- 
mer, Mclntyre, Samuel Jackson, 1805 ; Sheldon, James Lancing, Har- 
manus Vedder, Lawrence Gross, William Van O'Linda, 1806; Sheldon, 
Gross, Henry Fonda, Peter C. Fox, Vedder, 1 807 ; John Fay, Daniel 
Cady, John Green, Richard Van Home, David L Zieley, 1888 ; Cady, 
Van Home, Green, James Allen, Zieley, 1809; Nathan Christie, Van 
Home, William Woodward, Nathan Kimball, Edmond G. Ravvson, 
1810; Cady, Jacob Eacker,_Daniel Hurlbut, James Mclntyre, Christie, 
181 1 ; Josiah Bartlett, Cady, John Fay, Hurlbut, Arch. Mclntyre, 
Daniel McVean, Alexander Sheldon, Richard Van Home, 1812; Bart- 
lett, Cady, McVean, Van Home, 1813 ; Solomon Dievendorff, John 
Eisenlord, Samuel A. Gilbert, Alexander St. John, John Shuler, Syl- 
vanus Wilcox, Andrew Zabriskie, Alvah South wick, 1814 ; Dievendorff, 
Eisenlord, St. John, Shuler, Southwick, 181 5; Henry Gross, Henry 
Fonda, Samuel Jackson, Benedict Arnold, Isaac Sears, 1816; Barent K. 
Vrooman, S. Jackson, Ezekiel Belding, Henry Lyker, Jacob Shaw, 18 17; 
Jacob Hess, Aaron Haring, Duncan McMartin, jr., Robert Hall, Samuel 
Jackson, 18 18; Lawrence Gross, Henry J. Dievendorff, Jacob Hess, 
Henry Fonda, John L. Francisco, 1819; Howland Fish, Gross, Henry 
Failing, jr., David W. Candee, Arch. Mclntyre, 1820; John W. Cady, 
James Mclntyre, Joshua Webster, Henry Valentine, Nicholas Gross, 
1821 ; George D. Ferguson, Christian Klock, Alvin Harris, Joseph Spier, 
1822; Henry Cunningham, Francis H. Van Buren, Peter Smith, Peter 
C. Fox, 1823; Smith, Cunningham, Alexander St. John, Samuel Jack- 
son, 1824; Abraham A. Vanhorne, Augustus Dievendorff, John French, 
Alexander Sheldon, 1825 ; Lawrence Gross, Nathaniel Westcott, How- 
land Fish, 1826; David F. Sacia, Nathaniel Westcott, John Veeder, 
1827; Phineas Randall, Joseph Spinnard, Peter Young, 1828; Henry 
J. Dievendorff, Daniel Stewart, Thomas R.Benedict, 1829; William 
Robb, Piatt Potter, Josiah C. Brown, 1830; Peter Wood, Silas Phillips, 
Jacob Van Arnam, 1831 ; Douw A. Fonda, William Carlisle, Cornelius 
Mabee, 1832; David Morrell, Charles S. Grinnell, Asel Hough, 1833; 
Henry Adams, Ashbel Loomis, Collins Odell, 1834; Joseph Blair, 
Henry V. Berry, Joseph Johnson, 1835 ; Joseph Blair, Jacob Hess, 



CIVIL LIST. 113 

Richard Peek, 1836; Marcellus Weston, Abraham V. Putnam, Jere- 
miah NelUs, 1837; Isaac Jackson, Isaac Frost, 1838; Peter Wood, 
John S. Veeder, 1839; Reuben Howe, Daniel F. Nfellis, 1840; Law- 
rence Marcellus, James Dievendorff, 1841 ; John Bowdish, John I. 
ZoUer, 1842; Clark B. Cochrane, Morgan L. Harris, 1843 ; Peter H. 
Fonda, John L. Bevins, 1844; Theodoric R. Liddle, Benjamin Baird, 
1845 ; Gamaliel Bowdish, Andrew S. Grey, 1846; Asa Bowman, Will- 
iam A. Haslett, 1847; Frothingham Fish, Lewis Arville, 1848; Sam- 
uel H. Green, Charles Hubbs, 1849; Solomon Heath, Conrad P. Snell, 
1850; John I. Davis, William Clarke, 1851 ; William McClellan, Abra- 
ham N. Van Alst3/ne, 1852 ; Aaron W. Hull, Hezikiah Baker, 1853-54 i 
John Van Derveer, Joseph Spraker, 1855 ; Mathew O. Davis, Hezekiah 
Baker, 1856; Hezekiah Baker, 1857; Jeremiah Snell, 1858; Jay D. 
Bowman, 1859; Frothingham Fish, i860; Nicholas Newkirk, 1861 ; 
Freeman P. Moulton, 1862; John Kellogg, 1863 ; Simeon Samnions, 
1864; Isaac S. Frost, 1865; Abraham Hoffman, 1866; Angell Mat- 
thewson, 1867; Darius B. Berry, 1868; James Shanahan, 1869; Web- 
ster Wagner, 1870 ; William J. Van Dusen, 1871-72 ; Martin L. Storer, 
1873; Martin Schenck, 1874; George M. Voorhees, 1875; Edward 
Wemple, 1876-77; John Warner, 1878-79; Cornelius Van Buren, 
1880-81; James R. Snell, 1882; Martin Walrath, jr., 1883; Thomas 
Liddle, 1884-85 ; Robert Wemple, 1886-87; W. Barlow Dunlap, 1888- 
90; John K. Stewart, 1889; George L. Grove, 1891. 

County Judges. — Guy Johnson, 1772; Jacob Klock, 1778; Jelles 
Fonda, 1784; P^ederick Fisher, 1787 ; Abraham Arndt, 1801 ; Simeon 
Vedder, 1802; John McCarthy, 1809; Alexander Sheldon, 1815; 
Aaron Haring, 1819; Abraham Morrill, 1833 ; Phineas Randall, 1841 ; 
John Darrow, 1846; Samuel Belding, jr., 1847; Richard H. Cushney, 
1859; George Yost, 1863 ; James H. Cook, 1867; Solomon P. Heath, 
1871 ; Zerah S. Westbrook, 1877-83 ; Henry V. Borst, (by appointment) 
John D.Wendell, 1889. 

Surrogates. — Christopher P.Yates, 1778; Isaac Paris, 1787; Josiah 
Crane, 1790; Charles Walton, 1800; James Lansing, 1801 ; Tobias A. 
Stoutenburgh, 1821; Richard H. Cushney, 1838; Giles F. Van Vech- 
ten, 1843. Since 1846 the county judge has performed the duties of 
surrogate. 
15 



114 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

District Attorneys.^ — Daniel Cady, appointed February 28, 1813; 
Samuel S. Lush, April 6, 1813; Richard M. Livingston, February 16, 
1815; Alfred Conkling, 1818; William 1. Dodge, 1821; Charles Mc- 
Vean, 1836; Garret L. Roof, 1841; -Rowland Fish, 1843; Henry 
Adams, 1846; John A. Mitchell, 1847; Stephen Sammons, 1850 
Peter G. Webster, 1853; Abraham Hees, 1856; James H. Cook, 1859 
Henry Sacia, 1862; Daniel S. Morrell, 1865; Hezekiah Baker, 1868 
John D. Wendell, 1871; Henry Dunkel, 1874; Robert B. Fish, 1880 
Henry V. Borts, 1883; Charles S. Nesbitt, 1885-89. 

Sherififs. — Alexander White, 1772; John Frey, 1775; Anthony Van 
Veghten, 1777; Abraham Van Home, 1781; Samuel Clyde, 1785; 
John Winn, 1789; John Little, 1793; Josiah Crane, 1795; James Hil- 
dreth, 1798; Benjamin Van Vleck, 1799; James Hildreth, 1801; James 
Mclntyre, 1806; Jacob Snell, 1810; John Eisenlord, 1811; Jacob 
Snell, 1813; John Eisenlord, 1815; Jo'^" Holland, 1817; Seth Wet- 
more, 1821; Charles Easton, 1825; John French, 1828; Isaac Jack- 
son, 1 831; Malachi Kittle, 1834; William T. Sammons, 1837; Thomas 
Burns, 1840; Lyndes Jones, 1843; Edwin W. Irvin, 1846; Barney 
Becker, 1849; Livingston Spraker, 1852; Abraham Hoffman, 1855; 
Lorenzo B. Clarke, 1868; Alexander Snell, 1861; James W. Kline, 
1864; David B. Hegeman, 1867; Alfred J. Wagner, 1870; James W. 
Kline, 1873 ; Stephen Fonda, 1876; William J. Scharff, 1879 ; Isaac A. 
Rosa, 1882; Jacob Snell, 1885; John D. Schuyler, 1888; Thomas 
Liddle, 1891. 

County Clerks. — Christopher P. Yates, 1777; Daniel Paris, 1800; 
Henry Frey Yates, 1802; John McCarthy, 1815; Peter H. Bostwick, 
1821 ; Henry Frey Yates, 1822 ; George D. Ferguson, 1825 ; Alexan- 
der J. Conirie, 1828; George B. Ferguson, 1831; Alexander J. 
Comrie, 1837; Henry Cook, 1 840; Chester S. Brumley, 1843; John 
W. Van Deveer, 1859; Darius V. Berry, 1855; James I. Brookman, 
1864; Abner H. Burtch, 1870; William N. Johnston, 1876; Alonzo E. 
Hall, 1882; George L. Davis, 1888; R. Simon Blood, 1891. 

County Treasurers.- — John M. Caldwell, 1848; Daniel Conyne, 1851; 

' Previous to the act of 1818 the office was called a,ssistant attorney-general. Montgomery county 
was part of the 5th district. 

2 Previous to the constitution of 1846, county treasurers were appointed by the board of super- 
visors. 



^ C:^ 








THE REBELLION. 115 

Douw A. Fonda, 1857; Adam W. Kline, i860; John C. Smith, 1863 ; 
James Frost, 1869; Alonzo A. De Forest, 1872; Norman S. Brumley, 
1875 ; James K. Edward, 1878 ; John Finehout, 1887 ; Daniel I. Devoe, 
1890. 

School Commissioners. — Originally this ofifice was county superin- 
tendent of common schools, under an act passed April 17, 1S43, but 
was abolished in 1847. During the life of the office, Walter Hough, 
Freeman P. Moulton and Walter Cross were superintendents. School 
commissioners were appointed prior to 1857, and elected afterward. 
They have been as follows : A. W. Cox, Walter Cross, John L. Brook- 
man, Morris Klock, Thomas S. Ireland, Abram B. Miller, Charles 
Buckingham, George F. Cox, Seeley Conover, Alonzo Gewey, Henry 
K. Salisbury, John H. Wienmann. 



CHAPTER XV. 
MONTGOMERY COUNTY DURING THE REBELLION. 

AT half past four o'clock on the morning of April 12, 1861, a shot 
was fired from a Confederate battery in Charleston harbor, and 
struck Fort Sumter, which was held by a Federal garrison. Three 
days after this outburst of treason President Lincoln issued a proclama- 
tion calling upon the Union states to send to the national capital seven- 
ty-five thousand militia for its defence. On the i6th the State Military 
Board of New York held a meeting, and Governor Morgan at once sent 
a message to the secretary of war assuring him that the quota required 
of this state would be immediately mustered into service. The govern- 
or also at once issued orders, acting in concert with the military board, 
and called upon the militia for seventeen regiments of 7S0 men each. 
The result was that in a very few days the state of New York sent 
13,906 effective men to Washington ; and it is an historical fact that 
the opportune arrival of these troops saved the government buildings 
from attack and possible destruction. 



lie HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Under the several calls, general, special and by draft, botli in army 
and navy, the state of New York furnished an aggregate of 502,765 
men, and of these Montgomery county provided its full quota. It is to 
be regretted, however, that the precise number cannot be given, as the 
state authorities were so remiss that no roster has ever been published 
or even compiled. 

The outbreak of the war found the political situation in Montgomery 
to be much the same as in other counties of similar condition, and while 
at times there were murmurings and dissatisfaction, they were not of 
such a character as to cause general alarm. 

During the course of the war, Montgomery county furnished men for 
twenty different regiments, although in several of them the representa- 
tion was quite small. The first of these of which any mention is made, 
was the Thirty-second Volunteer Infantry, to Companies B and D to 
which the towns of Canajoharie and Amsterdam, respectively, contrib- 
uted. The principal regiments containing any considerable number of 
local recruits, however, were the One Hundred and Fifteenth and the 
One Hundred and Fifty- third, although in this connection- should be 
mentioned the Forty- third and the First and Thirteenth regiments of 
artillery. As each of these is detailed at some length in this chapter, it 
is not necessary at present to make any further reference. 

THE THIRTY-SECOND REGIMENT. 

The Thirty-second was recruited under one of the first calls for 
troops, and was accepted by the state on May 22, 1861. It was organ- 
ized in New York city, and on May 31st it was mustered into service 
for two years. On the expiration of this term the three years' men 
were transferred to the One Hundred and Twenty- first regiment. Com- 
pany B was recruited at Canajoharie, and Company D at Amsterdam ; 
but, unfortunately, there does not appear to be any roll of names, for 
which reason we are unable to furnish them to the reader. The Thirty- 
second marched June 29, 1861, and served for several weeks at Wash- 
ington and Alexandria, but was afterwards attached to the Army of the 
Potomac, and shared its reverses and victories until the term of enlist- 
ment ended. The regiment was mustered out of service June 9, 1863. 



FORTY-THIRD REGIMENT. 117 

Battles of the Thirty-second. — Fairfax Court House, July 17, 1861 ; 
Blackburn's Ford, July 20, 1861 ; Bull Run, July 21, 1861 ; Munson's 
Hill, August 25 and September 28, 1861 ; Anandale, December 2, 

1861 ; West Point, Va., May 7, 1862 ; Seven Days' battles, June 25- 
July 2, 1862; Gaines' Mill, June 27, 1862; Garnett's and Golding's 
farms, June 28, 1862 ; Glendale, June 30, 1862; Malvern Hill, July i, 

1862 ; Crampton Pass, September 14, 1862 ; Antietam, September, 17, 
1862; Fredericksburg, December 11-15, 1862; Franklin's Crossing, 
April 29 and May 2, 1863 ; Marye's Heights and Salem Church, May 
3-4. 1863. 

THE FORTY-THIRD REGIMENT. 

This regiment, which was known as the " Albany and Yates Rifles," 
and also as the " Vinton Rifles," received its designation September 18, 

1 861. It was recruited during the late summer and early fall of that 
year, the town of Canajoharie furnishing the greater part of Company 
E. The Forty-third was organized and mustered into service at Al- 
bany in September, 186 1, for three years. On the 21st of the month 
last mentioned the regiment marched and served at and near Washing- 
ton until the isth of the following October, when it became a part of 
Hancock's brigade, Smith's division, Army of the Potomac. In May, 

1862, it was attached to the first brigade in the second division of the 
sixth corps, and later on formed a part of the famous " Light Brigade," 
during the Chancellorsville campaign. We next find this regiment in 
the third brigade, second division, sixth corps, with which it continued 
until June 27, 1865, under command of Col. Charles A. Millikin, when 
at Washington, it was honorably discharged and mustered out of serv- 
ice. It may be stated in connection with the history of the Forty- 
third, that on July 18, 1862, it was consolidated into five companies — 
A, B, C, D and K — but in October following five new companies joined 
the regiment, thus completing its organization. Then on September 22, 
1864, by reason of the expiration of terms of enlistment, it became nec- 
essary to renew the consolidation, and it was again formed into five 
companies. 

The Forty-third was one of the hardest fighting regiments in the 
Army of the Potomac, and during its service bore an honorable part in 



118 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

a number of the most severe and sanguinary actions of the war. The 
story of its vicissitudes and triumphs, however, is best told by referring 
to the battles in which it participated, which were as follows: Vienna 
and Flint Hill, February 22, 1862; Siege of Yorktown, April 5 and 
May 4, 1862; Lee's Mills, April 16, and 28, 1862; Williamsburg, May 
5, 1862 ; Seven days' battle, June 25, to July 2, 1862 ; Garnett's Farm, 
June 27, 1862 ; Garnett's and Golding's Farms, June 28, 1862; Savage 
Station, June 29, 1862; White Oak Swamp Bridge, June 30, 1862; 
Malvern Hill, July i, 1862 ; Sugar Loaf Mountain, September 10-11, 
1862; Crampton Pass, September 14, 1862 ; Anietam, September 17, 
1862; Fredericksburg, December 11-15, 1862; Marye's Heights and 
Salem church. May 3-4, 1863; Deep Run Crossing, June 5, 1863; 
Gettysburg, July 1-3, 1863 ; Fairfield, Pa., Julys, 1S63 ; Antietam and 
Marsh Run, July 7, 1863; near Lietersburg, July 10, 1863; Funks- 
town, July 11-13, 1863; Williamsport, July 14, 1863 ; Auburn, Octo- 
ber 13, 1863 ; Rappahannock Station, November 7, 1863; Mine Run 
Campaign, November 26 and December 2, 1863; Wilderness, May 5- 
7, 1864; Spottsylvania Court House, May 8-21, 1864; Piney Branch 
Church, May 8, 1864; Landron's Farm, May lO, 1864; the Salient, 
May 12, 1864; North Anna, May 22-26, 1864; Tolopotomy, May 
27-31, 1864; Cold Harbor, June 1-12, 1864; before Petersburg, June 
18, July 9 and December, 1864, and April 2, 1865 ; Assault of Peters- 
burg, June 18-19, 1864; Weldon railroad, June 21-23, 1864; Fort 
Stevens, July 12-13, 1864; Charlestown, August 21, 1864; Opequan 
Creek, September 13, 1864; Opequan, September 19, 1864; Fisher's 
Hill, September 22, 1864; Cedar Creek, October 19, 1864 ; Petersburg 
Works, March 22, 1865 ; Appomattox campaign, March 28 and April 
9, 1865 ; Fall of Petersburg, April 2, 1865; Sailor's Creek, April 6, 
1865; Appomattox Court House, April 9, 1865. 

Officers of Company E. — Captain, Jacob Wilson ; first lieutenant, 
Hiram A. Winslow ; sergeants, Thomas Avery, Frank Shurburt, J. W. 
Hagadorn, Jackson Davis ; corporals, John W. Dain, William F. Ward, 
Cornelius Van Alstyne, Christopher Richards, Martin O'Brien ; musi- 
cians, Charles Marcy, Wm. Flint; privates, George M. Algier, Samuel 
Allen, Isaac Bauder, James Barry, John Conrad, James Gary, James 
Connor, James Dwyer, Wm. Drake, Charles Drake, George Eicher, 



ONE HUNDRED FIFTEENTH REGIMENT. 119 

John Farrell, John Frahck, James Parian, Henry Fero, Lewis Hartley, 
Henry Henneman, Jerome Hill, Richard Hardin, Richard Handy, Wm. 
Hillebrandt, J. Hammersmith, John Jolly, Frank Jolly, George Jackson, 
John Karg, John Kiernan, Thomas Lynch, Peter Lynch, Charles Luckin, 
John McBahan, Theodore Martin, Charles Miller, Peter McNinny, John 
McCabe, Daniel McMann, William Meagher, John Murphy, Ellis Moyer, 
Orvillar Mann, John Neil, Harrison Plank, Peter H. Reynolds, David 
Race, Jonas Race, Henry Showdy, Charles Shultz, Thomas Smith, 
Charles Smith, Stephen Socks, Albert Taylor, M. Van Brocklin, A. A. 
Van Valkenburg, Frederick Willick, Abel Weaver, James Young. 

THE ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTEENTH REGIMENT. 

This regiment contained more Montgomery county recruits than any 
to which the county contributed, and was raised at a time when the 
government was in great need of volunteers, during the trying summer 
of 1862. Companies A, B, D, G, H, I and K contained men from this 
county, forming indeed almost half of the entire regiment, but the full 
enlistment is credited to Fulton, Hamilton, Saratoga and Montgomery 
counties The One Hundred and Fifteenth regiment was completed 
and organized about the middle of August, 1862, and mustered into 
service at Fonda, the place of rendezvous, on the 26th, by Captain 
Edgerton, of the regular army. The field and stafil" officers chosen upon 
the organization of the regiment were as follows : Simeon Sammons, 
of Mohawk, colonel ; George S. Bacheller, of Saratoga, lieutenant- 
colonel ; Patrick H. Cowan, of Saratoga, major; Thomas R. Horton, of 
Fultonville, adjutant; Martin McMartin, of Johnstown, quartermaster; 
Richard H. Sutton, of Saratoga, surgeon ; Wm. H. Ingersoll, assistant 
surgeon, Sylvester W. Clemens, chaplain. 

On the 29th of August, 1862, the regiment broke camp at Fonda 
and proceeded under orders to Charlestown, Va., where its first service 
was to guard the Shenandoah railroad, but soon afterwards it marched 
to Harper's Ferry and camped on Bolivar Heights. On the 13th of 
September it went into its first battle at Maryland Heights, and two 
days later witnessed General Miles's cowardly surrender at Bolivar 
Heights. The One Hundred and Fifteenth was next ordered to Ann- 



120 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

apolis, but almost immediately was sent to Chicago on guard and pro- 
vost duty, where it remained until the 20th of November and then 
returned to Washington. Instead, however, of encamping for the win- 
ter at the national capital, as was expected, the men were kept under 
constant motion, and suddenly, in January, 1863, the command was 
transferred to the department of the south with headquarters at Hilton 
Head, where it arrived on January 26. Here the regiment was divided 
into detachments and kept on guard duty until the latter part of May, 
and then reunited. While 1863 was uneventful so far as the One Hun- 
dred and Fifteenth was concerned, the succeeding year brought the 
regiment intense excitement, for it was ordered into perilous service and 
bore part in some of the most sanguinary battles of the war. Begin- 
ning with the engagement at Jacksonville, Fla., on February 7, and 
ending with Fort Fisher on December 25, the One Hundred and Fif- 
teenth fought in twenty-two battles, but nowhere were its losses so se- 
vere as at Olustee on the 20th of February, where it lost more than 
one-half of its members engaged. Even a casual glance at the roll of 
Montgomery county companies will show how terribly the One Hun- 
dred and Fifteenth Regiment sufi'ered in this battle. Although neither 
of the opposing armies could claim a victory, the One Hundred and 
Fifteenth won marked distinction, and was publicly complimented by 
General Seymour, who named it the " Iron-hearted Regiment," in 
honor of its bravery in that bloody action. After remaining some time 
in the south the One Hundred and Fifteenth, on April 18, was ordered 
to Gloucester Point, Va., and was there incorporated into the Tenth 
Corps, under command of General Butler. The official record shows 
what a prominent part it bore while it was attached to Butler's com- 
mand. That its service must have been severe is evident from the fact 
that in the latter part of August its effective strength was reduced to 
less than 120 men. On the 15th of January, 1865, the One Hundred 
and Fifteenth took part in the second battle at Fort Fisher, followed by 
three other engagements in February, after which its service consisted 
mainly of guard duty. On the 17th of June it was mustered out, and 
on the 1 8th left Raleigh for Albany, where the men were paid off and 
finally discharged. The One Hundred and Fifteenth regiment left its 
old barracks at Fonda in the fall of 1862 with a full complement of 



ONE HUNDRED FIFTEENTH REGIMENT. 121 

1,040 officers and men; in June, 1865, at the final muster-out its nu- 
merical strength was less than 200 of its original members. 

Official battles of the One Hundred and Fifteenth: Maryland Heights, 
September 13, 1862; Bolivar Heights, September 15, 1862; West 
Point, Va , January 8, 1863; Jacksonville, Fla., February 7, 1864; 
Camp Finnegan, Fla., February 8, 1864; Baldwin, Fla., February 9, 
1864; Sanderson, Fla., February 11, 1864; Callahan Station, Fla., 
February 14, 1864; Olustee, Fla., February 20, 1864; Palatka, Fla., 
March 10, 1864; Bermuda Hundred, Va., May 5, 1864; Chesterfield 
Heights, Va., May 7, 1864; Old Church, Va., May 9, 1864 ; Weir Bot- 
tom Church, Va., May 12, 1864; Drury's Bluff, May 14, 1S64; Proc- 
tor's Creek and Port Walthall, May 16, 1864; Cold Harbor, June 1, 
1864; Chickahominy, June, 1864; Petersburg, June 23, 1864; Burn- 
side Mine, July 30, 1864; Deep Bottom, August 16-18, 1864; Fort 
Gilmer, September 29, 1864; Darbytown, October 27, 1864; Fort 
Fisher, December 25, 1864; Fort Fisher, January 15, 1865 ; Fort An- 
derson, February 19, 1865 ; Sugar Loaf, February 20, 1865 ; Wilming- 
ton, February 22, 1865. 

Officers of Co. A. — Captain, Garrett Van Deveer, Fonda, mortally 
wounded at Olustee, died February 24, 1864; first lieutenant, Willet 
Ferguson, Fonda, promoted to captain, February 24, 1864; second 
lieutenant, John W. Davis, Fonda, promoted to first lieutenant, severely 
wounded at Olustee. Sergeants, C. N. Ballou, Fonda, promoted to sec- 
ond lieutenant, to captain in 1864; Stephen Morris, jr., Glen, mortally 
wounded at Olustee; C. C. Cole, Glen, wounded at Drury's Bluff; 
James W. Van Arnum, P'onda, promoted to second lieutenant, June, 
1865 ; Charles Gross, Glen, died at Washington. Corporals, Thomas 
Smeaton, Root; John A. Hubbard, Fonda, lost leg at Harper's Ferry ; 
Simeon J. Aumack, Glen, killed at Deep Bottom ; Nicholas Shultz, 
Palatine ; Silas W. Horning, Glen, lost arm at Deep Bottom ; Stephen 
B. Nellis, Palatine ; Rodolphus H. Tipple, Glen. Musicians, Joseph 
Allen, Alvergone Ackert, Fonda, killed at Fort Fisher. Wagoner, 
George H. Bellows, Glen, mortally wounded at Olustee. 

Privates, Glen. — Joseph Bese, John D. Bond (died of disease. May 
20, 1865), Charles Clapson (mortally wounded by accident at Hilton 
Head), Ezra Coleman (died at Fort Monroe), Elisha Carson (died in 
16 



l22 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Andersonville, February 20, 1864), Alfred J. Castler (promoted to cor- 
poral, wounded at Olustee), Joseph Carpenter, Charles Dinegar (killed 
at Fort Fisher, January 15, 1865), Oswald Glen, William Hilton (pro- 
moted to sergeant), John Holsner (died in Virginia), George Hart 
(wounded at Olustee, died in Andersonville), John Keyderling, H. A. 
Keyderling, A. W. Kirkham (wounded and prisoner at Olustee), Henry 
Keyderling, Alexander Lanegar, Jacob M. Lanegar, Solomon Lanegar, 
Peter Lanegar (killed at Fort Fisher, January 15, 1865), A. H. M. Lan- 
egar, John A. Lanegar, Ira A. Lanegar, Mortimer D. Lowell, Edward 
McCann, Bernard McGuire, Thomas R. Nealey, Samuel D. Osterhout 
(died at Hilton Head, May 6, 1863), Daniel Peeler (died in Anderson- 
ville), Joshua W. Ripley, George L. Rice, Levi Smith, W. N. Sandt 
(died in hospital), John Sherlock (prisoner at Deep Bottom), John J. 
Van Brocklin (died of wounds at Harper's Ferry, September 15, 1862), 
William Van Alstyne (wounded at Olustee), Charles Weeper (wounded 
at Olustee, died in rebel prison, August, 1864), William Weeper. 

Fonda. — George W- Blowers, Michael Byers (killed at Chesterfield 
Heights, May 7, 1864), John Brower, Reuben Blowers, Daniel Burk, 
James P. Caldwell, William Crowden, John Dutcher, James M. Dean, 
(died at Hilton Head), George Enney, Thomas J. Henry, Henry Heaser, 
(killed at Petersburg, June 30, 1864), John Horning, John Hogan (killed 
at Petersburg, July 13, 1864), Hiram Lusk (died in hospital February, 
1864), Whiting A. Lee, William Reynolds, Niles Reynolds, George 
Smith, William Strait, Frederick Seller, Nathan Terrell, Martin Tim- 
mins (wounded at Deep Bottom, died September 14, 1864.) 

Canajoharie. — Nelson Ambridge, Charles De Van (killed at Deep 
Bottom August 16, 1864), Charles Ergabroadt, Daniel T. Goodbread, 
James Gardner (wounded at Olustee and died March 19, 1864), William 
Gardner, Patrick Jay, Samuel H. Lusk, John Lewis, John Lasher, Menzo 

Lasher, Lewis Martin, jr., McDowell (killed at Olustee), John H. 

Peeler (wounded at Drury's Bluff), Jacob Sabinhart, Leander Snell, 
Conradt Smith (wounded and missing at Fort Fisher), Joseph Shannon, 
John Van Dusen, Lafayette Waterman (died in rebel prison November 
1 1 , 1 864), all of Palatine. Oliver Lighthall (wounded at Chester Heights), 
Michael McMahon, Henry O'Neil, of Root. John Gow (died at Beau- 
fort), Daniel T. Steele, of Mohawk. John Petit. 



ONE HUNDRED FIFTEENTH REGIMENT. 123 

Privates, residence unknown. — G. H. Bellows (died at Hilton Head), 
Robert Baker (died at Salisbury), Rosdell Corlcw (died in North Caro- 
lina), F. Cromwell (died at Olustee), John Faus (died at Andersonville), 
John Kaiser (killed in Virginia), Wm. A. Pratt (died in Virginia), John 
Robinson (died at Andersonville), John Snyder (died at Hilton Head). 

Officers of Company B — Captain, John P. Kneeskern, Minden ; first 
lieutenant, H. X. Dievendorfif, Canajoharie, resigned ; second lieutenant, 
John Van de Saude, Fort Plain, wounded at Deep Bottom, died at 
Fortress Monroe, October 3, 1864. Sergeants, Wm. J. Lasher, St. 
Johnsville ; Isaac E. Smith, St. Johnsville, promoted second lieutenant 
and to first lieutenant. Company C, and to captain ; Daniel K. Peacock, 
Fonda; Jacob H. Snyder, Fonda; Joseph L. Mosher, Canajoharie. 
Corporals, August Collier, St. Johnsville, promoted second lieutenant 
November, 1864, to first lieutenant June, 1865 ; Job J. Harlow, Minden ; 
Edward C. Buddie, Canajoharie; Countryman Jadua, St. Johnsville, 
(killed at Fort Fisher) ; John Reardon, St. Johnsville, promoted second 
lieutenant June, 1865; Washington Vosburgh, Canajoharie ; Charles 
Tucker, Fonda; John F. Moyer, Fonda. Musicians, Darwin R. Hicks, 
St. Johnsville ; Marcus Powell, St. Johnsville. Wagoner, Alonzo Van 
Evera, Fonda. 

Privates — Canajoharie, Wilbur Alpaugh, Wm. L. Alger, Henry T. 
Becker, Wm. H. Burden, James S. Brown, John Becker (wounded and 
prisoner), Seeley Conover, Livingston Derrick, Wm. E. Flint (killed at 
Olustee, February 20, 1864), Wm. H.Flint, Lewis H. Goodrich, Henry 
Goodrich (killed at Cold Harbor June 3, 1864), George Hoyt, George 
J. Hickey, Wm. W. Lake, Lucus Mount (wounded, prisoner and died), 
Anthony Otto, Charles Schuyler, Lucius A. Smith, (wounded and pris- 
oner at Olustee, died at Andersonville September, 1864), George S. 
Smith. 

St. Johnsville. — Jacob B. Brown (killed near Petersburg June 24, 
1864), Robert E. Burk, Orrin H. Brown, George W. Burk, James 
Bellis, John Burns, David L. Collins, Leonard J. Crouse, John Denmark 
(died at Hilton Head May, 1863), Abram Failing, jr., John W. Higgins, 
William Hompkey, David Handy, William S. Hess, Peter V. Lampman, 
William H. Lampman, Lewis Magadien, John H. Miller, Norman Mil- 
ler, Peter Nellis, John C. Nellis, Abner Snell, OrviUe Snell, E. W. 



124 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Southerland, Dan. K. Schram, James Sneck, Daniel Starin, Alonzo 
Smith (killed at Olustee February 20, 1864), D. C. Tompkins, James 
H. Veeder, Nicholas Winne, Reuben Walrath (wounded at Darbytown 
road October 27, 1864). 

Minden. — Norman Cook, Aaron Garlock, James Green, Daniel Gil- 
day (killed at Olustee), Abram Hanson, Samuel L. Hungerford, John 
A. Keeler, Charles C. Lappee, John P. Lintner (wounded at Peters- 
burg, died September 1864), William J. Miller, Patrick McMahon, 
Morgan W. Moyer, Thomas McGreevy, John W. Moak, George Miller, 
Frank Niederlander (killed at Olustee), Nicholas Rupert (killed at Deep 
Bottom August 16. 1864), John Smith, Charles Tring, Fisher F. Van 
Epps, Frank Washburn, Daniel J. Whiting. 

Fonda. — Henry Albright, David Bowes (died of typhoid fever 
August 14, 1864), Henry Byer, Robert Gray, Robert Kitts, Michael 
Maloney, Richard Maxfield (wounded and prisoner at Olustee, died No- 
vember, 1864). 

Amsterdam. — William Welch, John J. Williams, George Weaver. 

Florida. — James J. West. 

Residence Unknown. — B. Moyer (died at Savannah), R. Maxfield 
(died near home). 

Officers of Company D. — Captain, Sidney D. Lingenfelter, Amster- 
dam ; first lieutenant, Thomas Wayne, Florida, discharged for disability 
February 22, 1865 ; second lieutenant, Hugh S. Sanford, Amsterdam, 
promoted captain. Sergeants, Nicholas De Graff, Amsterdam, promoted 
second lieutenant June, 1863, first lieutenant February, 1865; William 
W. McKay, Amsterdam ; Charles Kline, Amsterdam, promoted second 
lieutenant November, 1864, first lieutenant May, 1865 ; John C. Brand, 
Charleston ; Elbert Slingerland, Amsterdam. Corporals, William H. 
Baker, Florida; Frank Moon, Amsterdam ; William McColton, Amster- 
dam, wounded at Olustee ; Levi Lingenfelter, Amsterdam, killed at 
Olustee February 20, 1864; Henry Hilton, Charleston; Edward S. 
Montayne, Charleston ; Daniel Grant, Amsterdam, wounded at Olustee; 
Schuyler Gordon, Charleston. Musicians, Chauncy Snyder, Amster- 
dam ; Francis Snyder, Amsterdam. Wagoner, Clark Vedder, Amster- 
dam. 

Privates from Amsterdam. — Willard E. Bemis, William Boyd, Abra- 
ham Brower, Myron L. Bemis (wounded at Fort Gilmer, died October 



ONE HUNDRED FIFTEENTH REGIMENT. 1'25 

II, 1864), Andrew Clark (died at Beaufort June 28, 1863), Williamson 
Cunning, Andrew M. Claflin, Sylvester N. Dodd (killed on railroad at 
Chicago), Peter A. Folmsby (killed at Olustee), Daniel Goodemote, 
John Gillims (wounded at Olustee), William E. Glover (wounded at 
Olustee, killed at Petersburg), Thomas Heavy (died in New York hos- 
pital August 4, 1865), Abner Hall, John Hansaw, Henry C. Hart, John 
B. narrower, Isaac Harrower (died August 7, 1864), Fred. Hutchkins, 
Albert Inman, George Kline, Thomas Lepper, Oscar Lockwood, James 
Little, William Little, Samuel Marshall, Aaron Mcintosh, James Mc- 
Collum (died at Deep Bottom), James McKercher, James McNully 
(wounded at Olustee), Walter McCowlett, Daniel Mosher, William H. 
Nutt, Henry Rust, William Robinson, Chauncey Snyder, jr. (died of 
fever November 15, 1862), Alfred Saltsman (died November 15, 1862), 
Michael E. Soules, Alfred C. Shepard, Charles E. Thayer, John Turner 
(wounded at Olustee, died September 15, 1864), Cornelius Tyneson, 
Elbert Tyneson, John H. Wendell, John W. Wilmot. 

Florida — Leonard Burns, David R. Brower, George Cassiday (died 
at Beaufort), James English, John French (died May 12, 1864), James 
Fredendall, George Fredendall, Philip McCarthy, John S. McMasters 
(died at Fort Monroe), Lewis Rosa, John H. Simpson (died at Ander- 
sonville), Alex. B. Shute, Daniel Tullock (wounded at Olustee), Kelley 
S. Tullock, James A. Tripp, William Thayer (died in rebel prison Sep- 
tember 21, 1864), James W. Templer. 

Charleston. — Jacob Albright, Harvey Bunzey, Winslow Burton (died 
October 24, 1864), Roderick F. Barlow (killed at Olustee), James Bret- 
ton, William E. Colgrove (died in rebel prison December 3, 1863), 
Philip V. Colgrove, Frank M. Conover (killed at Deep Bottom), Alfred 
G. Eaton, Nathan F. Folmsby, Miner B. Humphrey, Charles E. Kel- 
logg (died of fever December 16, 1862), William H. H. Martin, John 
A. Ostrander, Samuel T. Rider, Asa B. Rider (died of fever November 
23, 1862). 

Mohawk. — Frank Crow (died in rebel prison October 21, 1864), 
Charles Dunbar, Robert Welch (wounded at Olustee). 

Residence Unknown. — J. N. Countryman (wounded at Olustee), W. 
Clark (wounded at Olustee), Nicholas H. Eaton (wounded at Olustee), 
Charles Friny (died at Beaufort), J. Johns (wounded at Olustee), Will- 



126 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

iam H. Kellogg (wounded at Olustee), Henry Newman (wounded at 
Olustee), B. Owens (wounded at Olustee), Charles Ormand (wounded 
at Olustee), Edward Smith (killed at Olustee), Henry Wood (wounded 
at Olustee). 

Company G. — Amsterdam, privates, Michael Maloney (wounded at 
Olustee), R. S. Quillett, William Van Slyke, William H. Wiley 
(wounded, died in rebel prison.) 

Compan}' H. — Privates, Minden, Lyman Brown, Michael Dean, Pat- 
rick Egan, Michael Flanigan, John Hart, Dennis Ray, Jacob Smith. 

Amsterdam — Jacob Ouderkirk, George Thorne, J. J. Vosburgh, 
Francis Williamson. 

Florida — William H. Kellogg. 

Fonda — James Richards. 

Company I. — Captain, Ezra E. Walrath, Syracuse ; first lieutenant, 
David M. Kittle, Canajoharie, promoted captain May, 1864; sergeants, 
Jeremiah Bovee, Canajoharie ; George O. Smith, Canajoharie, promoted 
second lieutenant, January 27, 1864 ; James M. Young, F'onda, died at 
home; George Maxon, Canajoharie; corporal, Frederick C. Winsman, 
Canajoharie, died at Chicago. 

Privates from Canajoharie. — Henry Billington (wounded at Deep 
Bottom), Henry W. Babcock, B. C. Cristansen (died in New Jersey), 
Martin Carver, R. Crandall (died in Andersonville), Livingston Dev- 
rick, Morgan M. Flint (killed at Drury's Bluff), Simeon Faulkner, 
James Gardner, Alex. Kershuckey (died in New York city), John Kel- 
ley, Nickolas B Lewis, Sylvanus Moyer (killed at Chesterfield Heights), 
John McLoy, Patrick North, Martin Price, Augustus Price, George 
Rolf, Charles W. Sharff (wounded at Olustee), Thomas J. Stephens, 
Lucas Van Evera (died at Norfolk, Va , July, 1864), Theodore Whit- 
ford. 

Palatine — Chauncey Goodbread, Frederick W. Keaner, Daniel Peeler 
(died in rebel prison, June 22, 1864), Jeremiah Rightmyer, Peter N. 
Rightmyer, Noah Suits. 

Glen — William Disbrow (died at Portsmouth, Va), Michael Miller, 
(died at Beaufort), Barney McGuire (died at Annapolis.) 

Fonda— John W. Crosby, R. B Kelly, Aaron B. Snell, Abijah Smith, 
Horatio Smith (died at Chicago.) 



ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-THIRD REGIMENT. 12? 

St. Johnsville — Ezra Coleman (died of wounds at Fortress Monroe, 
November ii, 1864), Clark Southwick (died in hospital at Beaufort of 
wound January 26, 1864), James E. Wahath. 

Amsterdam — A. G. Snyder (died at Petersburg), Francis Wilmerson. 

Minden — Patrick Harvey, Thomas Clark. 

Mohawk — John Pettit. 

Root — Frank E. Rich. 

Residence unknown — Benjamin Truman, P. Sullivan (killed at Peters- 
burgh.) 

Officers Company K. — Captain, William Smith, Amsterdam, wounded 
at Maryland Heights. Hospital steward, J. Countryman, St Johns- 
ville, killed at Fort Fisher. 

Privates. — Mohawk — Millig Bump, William L. Frederick, George S. 
Jones. 

Palatine — Abram Backmyer (died at Fortress Monroe), Edward 
Bradt, James De Graff, Nathan Layton, Abram Rockmyer. 

Glen — Francis Kersh (died at Hilton Head, June 21, 1863), Michael 
Miller (died at Beaufort, January 15, 1864.) 

Amsterdam — John D. More, William S. Young (wounded at Olustee), 
Joseph Younger. 

Residence unknown — J. M. Amsted (died at Deep Bottom), William 
Bailey (wounded at Olustee), A. Hardell (died at Raleigh, N. C), James 
Hunter (wounded at Olustee), Charles W. Johnson (wounded at Olus- 
tee), Joseph Wistar (died at Staten Island.) 

THE ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-THIRD REGIMENT. 

This regiment was raised in the northern counties of the state, seven 
of its companies being from Montgomery and Fulton counties, and 
three from Essex, Warren and Clinton. The Montgomery county men 
were chiefly in Companies B, C and E, while a smaller number was in 
F and G. Company B drew almost its entire strength from tlie towns 
of Mohawk and Palatine ; C was made principally with recruits from 
Florida and Glen ; E was the Minden and St. Johnsville company, its 
captain and first lieutenant, however, being Fonda men. The chief offi- 
cers and a few men of Company F were from Fonda and other Mont- 



128 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

gomery county towns, but its greater strength came from Fulton county. 
The local contribution to Company G was small, consisting mainly of 
officers. 

The One Hundred and Fifty-third, like its companion regiment, the 
One Hundred and Fifteenth, was organized and mustered into service 
at Fonda, but this did not take place until October 14, 1862. Imme- 
diately after its organization it was ordered to Alexandria, but soon did 
provost service at Washington, which continued for more than a year. 
In February, 1864, it was transferred to Louisiana, and attached to the 
Nineteenth corps, being assigned to the First brigade. First division, 
commanded by Genera! Franklin. The corps sailed from New Orleans 
on the 3d of July, under sealed orders ; but its destination proved to be 
the Chesapeake. The One Hundred and Fifty-third, together with four 
companies belonging to other regiments, being the advance of the corps, 
were, on their arrival at Fortress Monroe, instantly ordered without dis- 
embarking, to the defense of Washington, then menaced by General 
Early's invasion. The troops were hurried through the city amid deep 
public excitement and general alarm, to a position at Fort Stevens, 
where they went into immediate action. After the repulse of the enemy 
the regiment joined in the pursuit across the Potomac, penetrating into 
the Shenandoah valley, but was suddenly recalled to the vicinity of the 
capital to oppose another threatened hostile advance. 

The One Hundred and Fifty-third soon afterward engaged in the 
battle of Winchester, in which the Montgomery county companies 
again did good service. It also participated in the engagement at 
Fisher's Hill and in pursuit of the defeated confederates. The Nine- 
teenth corps, to which the One Hundred and Fifty-third still belonged, 
was also engaged in the battle of Cedar Creek, and suffered heavy losses 
incident to the surprise and ear^y catastrophes of that bloody field. 
The regiment also formed a part of the picket line which surrounded 
Washington after the assassination of President Lincoln, and performed 
guard duty at the military court which tried the assassins. In June, 
1865, it was ordered to Savannah, where it did provost duty until its 
discharge from service, October 2, 1865. 

Official list of battles of the iS3d. — Red River campaign. La., March 
10 and May 22, 1864; Pleasant Hill, April 9, 1864; Mansura, May 



ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-THIRD REGIMENT. 123 

i6, 1864; Washington, D. C, July 12. 13, 1864; Opequaii, September 
19, 1864; Fisher's Hill, September 22, 1864; near Strasburg, October 
14, 1864; Cedar Creek, October 19, 1864. 

Field and Staff Officer-s. — Colonels, Duncan McMartin, resigned April 
25, 1862; Edivin P. Divis, mustered out with regiment. 

Lieutenant Colonels — Thomas A. Armstrong, resigned February 
18, 1863; William H. Printup, resigned November 17, 1863; Alex- 
ander Strain, discharged January 4, 1865; George H. McLaughlin, 
mustered out with regiment. 

Majors. — Edwin P. Davis, promoted colonel March 26, 1863 ! Alex- 
ander Strain, promoted lieutenant- colonel December i, 1863 ; Stephen 
Sammons, resigned August 27, 1864; Jacob C. Klock, not mustered; 
George H. McLaughlin, promoted lieutenant-colonel January 26, 1865; 
Charles V. Putnam, died September 9, 1865; Abram V. Davis, not 
mustered. 

Adjutants — Stephen Sammons, promoted major December 2, 1863; 
Abram V. Davis, mustered out October 2, 1S65 ; Frederick A. Harmon, 
not mustered. 

Quartermasters — Daniel C. Livingston, resigned August 22, 1863 » 
John D. Blanchard, mustered out October 2, 1865. 

Surgeons — Horatio S. Hendee, resigned February 18, 1864 ; Norman 
L. Snow, mustered out October 2, 1865. 

Assistant Surgeons. — James L Alexander, resigned August 9, 1863; 
Frederick D. Vanderhoof, failed to muster ; Norman L. Snow, promoted 
surgeon April 14, 1864; James Sweeney, mustered out October 2, 
1865. 

Chaplain. — J. Henry Enders, mustered out October 2, 1865. 

Officers Company B. — Captain, Robert R. Meredith, Mohawk ; first 
lieutenant, John A. Wandelaer, Palatine ; second lieutenant, Mason H. 
Stewart, Mohawk ; sergeants, Richard Loucks, Palatine ; Herman A. 
Foster, Palatine ; Martin Cooley, Mohawk ; Edward Doherty, Mohawk ; 
(Charles S. Woodward, Mohawk ; corporals, Oscar Lasher, Palatine ; 
Hamilton D. Seaman, Mohawk ; David H. Quackenbush, Palatine ; Ezra 
Van Slyck, Palatine ; Abram Van Husen, Mohawk ; Andrew Cluplif, 
Palatine ; James Fancher, Mohawk ; Henry P. Searlcs, Mohawk ; 
musician, John W. Bauder, Mohawk. 

17 



130 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Privates, Mohawk. — James Ash, Jolin H. Austin, Jolin Barringer, 
Reqa Carajja, Nicholas Coons, Charles Cromwell, John H. Doxtader, 
Thomas Donnelly, Amaziah Eacker, Smith Galloway, Edward Gates, 
E. Adam Glenar, Gabriel Henry, Richard Hart, David Haverly, Herman 
Hime, John Hoffman, James Hopkins, Andrew Lantman, Cornelius P. 
Lansing, Henry L. Leitt, Byron Lefler, Wm. R. McGee, Martin Nealon, 
Georam Piatti, Michael Regali, Joseph Reistle, Peter Reijja, Anthony 
Sheridan, Samuel Tomlinson, James H. Van Dusen, James S. Veeder, 
John D. Vrooman, Joseph Van Ness, James Welch, John White, George 
Wilder, David Wilder, Garrett Youngjohn. 

Palatine. — Jerome B. Austin, Phineas Brigham, Shadrack Brower, 
John CoppernoU, John Colson, Wm. Cuplif , David Dornberg, John 
Eacker, Isaac Graff, Lewis Grape, Conrad Hinkle, Maus Haverly, 
Frederick Linde, Frederick Luck, Joseph Peiler, Henry Smith, Lewis 
Thompson, John P. Volmer, Hiram Vandewarker, Jacob Van Allen, 
Bower Van Wie, Wm. S. Waffle, George Wakeman, Simeon Waterman, 
Abraham Wich, James J. Williams. 

Root — Peter Barringer, Harmon Haverly. 

Florida — Simeon Phillips. 

Amsterdam — Henry Young. 

Officers Company C. — Captain, Wm. H. Printup ; first lieutenant, 
Peter E. Houck; second lieutenant, Charles F. Putnam; sergeants, 
James B. Neill,^ Glen, promoted to captain ; Wm. J. Munsell, Florida; 
Cornelius T. Burns, Glen ; John Conway, Root ; Martin Wood, Glen ; 
corporals, Wm. H. Wiers, Glen ; Hiram B. Kent, Florida ; Patrick H. 
Minch, Glen; John W. Scoop, Florida; Jay L. Huganin, Glen; Lo- 
renzo Lisdell, Florida ; Milan Pierce, Glen ; George G. Grimshaw, 
Florida ; musicians, Alfred S. Davis, Glen ; James Davis, Glen ; wag- 
oner, Daniel J. McLaughlin, Mohawk. 

Privates, Glen. — Ezra T. Austin, Charles F. Bowman, Christopher 
B. Clute, Alex. Cornell, Jacob P. Cogshall, John B. Cogshall, Peter 
Carson, Wm. Foody, Wade Getman, John Hunt, Amst Hugo, Henry 
Hawkins, Arthur O. Jones, Peter Leighton, P. P. Lynch, Patrick Mc- 
Garvin, John McGuire, John Murray, Samuel M. Murdock, Timothy 
Morris, George Miller, Andrew Newkirk, James Newkirk, John S. Put- 
nam, Valentine Polhammer, Wm. Quinn, W. E. Quackenbush (trans- 



ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-THIRD REGIMENT. IST 

ferred to navy), Jacob Stewart, Henry J. Soules, John Sharon, Abraham 

B. Swart, John H. Stillwell, Carroll Smith, Lewis D. Van Alstyne, 
Peter Vischer, Martin Wagner, Christian Wessels, Lewis Wessels. 

Florida — James L. Callen, John Cronan, Walter Cleaver, John Carr, 
Abram Dinehart, James Davis, John C. Davis, Daniel Fisher, John 
Graff, John Guile, Andrew J. Hare, David Huganin, John Hills, George 
Kyle, Benjamin F. Lisdell, Lorenzo Lisdell, Abram F. Lewis, Wm. 
Lawyer, John M. Mitchell, Wm. A. Miller, Melvin Peck, James W. 
Peck, Benjamin Pangburn, John H. Reese, Daniel P. Reese, Cornelius 
H. Van Sickler, James H. Wilson. 

Root — John Carson, Wm. Hazard, Michael Hynds, Peter J. Kellar, 
Martin Minch, George Minch, Myndert Quackenbush, Frederick Quack- 
enbush, Webber W. Rowe, Daniel Smith, Moses J. Tompkins, John J. 
Vanderveer. 

Charleston — Samuel Brum, Charles H. Hammon, Wm. H. Starin, 
Solomon H. Sharp. 

Residence unknown — John Chambers, S. M. Carle, Delos Clark, A. 
P. Duell, James Fancher, F. Holden, E. Holden, A. F. Johnson, Walter 
Lasher, R. A. McClain, A. H. Mott, J. C. Quackenbush, Jacob Smith. 

C. P. Van Antwerp, W. H. Wires. 

Officers Company E. — Captain, Jacob C Klock, Fonda; first lieu- 
tenant, Harvey C. Ward, Fonda ; second lieutenant, Ansel W. Porter, 
Fonda; sergeants, George H. Hagadorn, Minden ; John H. Howard, 
Minden ; Henry A Nellis, Minden ; James C. Bullock, Minden ; Ben- 
oni R. Dolan, Minden; corporals, Adam Getman, James Walrath, An- 
drew Gordon, George Swarts, Arnold V. Lasher, David Rose, Martin 
V. B. Ashley, Jacob Casler, all of Minden; musician, George Morey, 
St. Johnsville. 

Privates from Minden — George Armstrong, Martin Bopple, Joseph 
Bopple, Henr\ Bigelow, Charles Brammer, Byron Cole, Alonzo Cop- 
pernoll, Joseph Dunn, John H. Empie, Earle Farrell , James Graham, 
Paul Gaul, Jacob Geesler, Wm. B. Holkirk, Charles B. Hubbell, Chris- 
tian Hutritz, Wm. Knowles, Henry C. Keesler, Peter Kirsch, Adam 
Keesler, Enoch H. Lashley, James Lynch, John P. Miller, George 
Magadue, Charles Martin, Mulford March, Leonard Miller, Wm. H. 
North, Marvin Planck, John Phenas, Wm. Sheffield, Fred Sanger, 



132 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Charles P. Saulisbury, Charles Slae, Stephen Stehle, Ferdinand Smith, 
Henry H. Sanders, James Smith, Thomas W. Tweedle, Charles Wendt, 
Frederick Walster, Levi Winne, Albert Waufle, Christian Walster, 
John C. Waterman, Edward Wagener, Conrad C. Winne, John H. Gor- 
don, Lyman Zimmerman. 

St. Johnsville — Joseph Cook, John Dj-sling, jr., Nicholas Ecker, John 
C. Grabenstine, John E. Hellegass, Patrick H. Howard, John Klinkhart, 
Wm. Miller, John Moore, Sylvester Ritter, Jacob H. Walrath, Marvin 
F. Wilsey. 

Root — John Donnelly, Warren Headley, Enoch Perriiie, Wesley 
Spore, Henry Smith, Levi Sillenback, Christian Swartz, Matthew Smith, 
David Smith. 

Canajoharie — Charles Sharp. 

Officers Company F. — Captain, Isaac S Van Woerts, Fonda ; first 
lieutenant, Frank W. C. Fox, Fonda; second lieutenant, John H. Las- 
sel, Fonda ; sergeants, John G. Porter, Canajoharie; Elnathan McPhee, 
Canajoharie ; corporals, Robert R. Abling, Joseph Stone, Canajoharie; 
musicians, Andrew F. Johnson, Mohawk; Wm. H. Roberts, Canjo- 
harie. 

Privates, Canajoharie. — Harrison Abeling, John Abeling, Henry 
Bohne, Robert Boyd, Richard Bierman, William Dingman, John Fitz 
Simmons, Augustus Hilkey, Anton Keeler, Frederick Lutter, Henry 
Muerz, John Stehle, Harvey Shoudy, George W. Turner, John Ward. 

Root. — George W. Bundy (died in Virginia), Thomas Casey, John 
Lee. 

Florida. — Andrew Ryne. 

Officers of Company G. — Captain, George H. McLaughlin, Fonda J 
first lieutenant, Edward Parkinson, Fonda ; second lieutenant, George 
W. Hazard, Fonda; musician, Joseph L. Ritchie, Root. 

Privates. — Peter McRea, Fonda ; James McNiel, Canajoharie ; Ste- 
phen Wiley, Root ; Lyons Wakeman, Root. 

FIRST REGIMENT LIGHT ARTILLERY. 

The Montgomery county contribution to the First regiment of Ar- 
tillery was embraced in Company K, otherwise known as the "Fort 
Plain Battery," which, as its name indicates, was chiefly recruited at Fort 



FIRST REGIMENT LIGHT ARTILLERY. 133 

Plain, but some of its men were from the towns of Stockbridge, Jas- 
per, Elmira and Canandaigua. Battery K was mustered into service 
for three years at Albany on November 20, 1861. On the 15th of 
December its surplus men were transferred to other batteries of the 
regiment. 

The Fort Plain Battery served at Washington and in the same mili- 
tary district until May 27, 1862, and then (at Harper's Ferry), joined 
the Second brigade, Siegel's division, being a branch of the great Army 
of the Potomac, where it remained until June 26, 1862. It was with the 
Twelfth corps from that time until May 12, 1863, and was then 
transferred to the Reserve artillery, and remained in that connection 
until March, 1864. The additional service of the battery was with the 
Twenty-second corps in the defense of Washington. On the 20th day 
of June, 1865, at Elmira, being then commanded by Captain Stocking, 
Battery K was honorably discharged and mustered out. 

The service of the First was light artillery and by batteries in the 
Army of the Potomac, also in the Armj' of Virginia, of the Cumber- 
land, and of Georgia, and was of such a detached character that the 
ofificial record of battles of the local battery cannot be separated from 
those of other batteries of the regiment, for which reason we are unable 
to furnish them to our readers. 

Officers of Battery K. — Captain, Lorenzo Crounse ; first lieutenant, 
S. Walter Stocking ; second lieutenant, Angell Matthewson ; first ser- 
geant, George W. Fox ; quartermaster sergeant, William J. Canfield ; 
sergeants, Mosher Marion, Charles Keller; corporals, Phelps Conover, 
Aden G. Voorhees, Gottleib Liidwig, William E. Smith, Horatio Fox, 
Henry Tabor ; bugler, George W. Beardsley ; artificer, Clark Burtiss ; 
wagoner, Martin Sitts. 

Privates. — Peter Bennett, Jesse Bennett, Elisha D. Bennett, George H. 
Billington, Peter Baziel, Albert Burtiss, Hiram Brown, William Brown- 
rigg, George W. Christman, Myron Carter, James Coine, Ambrose 
Dyslin, Azariah Dyslin, William H. Drum, John H. Dievendorfif, John 
B. Ellsworth, George Edick, Edward Enghamer, Henry Fricke, George 
W. Fort, Solomon Goodbread, Loren A. Green. Rufus Gallup, John 
Henniger, James Hanley, Jeremiah Holmes, Francis H. Johnson, Deles 
M. Johnson, Lyman P. Kneiskern, Jacob Kaufman, Francis Kelsey, 



134 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

John Kelly, John Litner, Philo Monk, John Mattice, William H. Nes- 
tell, Azariah Nellis, William Nestell, Robert Parr, Russell W. Rogers, 
William J. Reynolds, Josiah Rockafellow, John Stevens, George Smith, 
Richard Shannon, John Trickey, George Walrath, Alexander Water- 
man, Matthew White. 

THIRTEENTH REGIMENT HE.'WY ARTILLERY. 

The Montgomery county enlistment in this regiment was quite small, 
its total being only thirty-four men, who were scattered through Com- 
panies E, F, and G. On May ii, 1863, the War Department author- 
ized Col. William A. Howard to organize the regiment in New York. 
The men who had already been recruited by Maj. H. B. Williams for 
the Eleventh New York Volunteer artillery, but not assigned to com- 
panies, were transferred to this command, which was strengthened by 
also receiving the men enlisted for the proposed Twenty-ninth New 
York Volunteer Infantry, and for the Thirty-sixth Independent Battery 
of New York Heavy Artillery. The new levies were mustered into 
service for thi^ee years, but the regiment also contained some one year 
enlistments. The command in fact included men from all parts of the 
state. The regiment was mustered in by companies as soon as recruited 
during the latter part of 1863 and the early part of 1864, and its serv- 
ice in the field was of such a detached character that no regular narra- 
tive of its history can be given, except that found in its list of engage- 
ments. When the short term men were mustered out the remainder 
were consolidated, so that some of the companies lost their identity. 

Official record of the battles of the Thirteenth. — Operations against 
Petersburg and Richmond, May 5 and 31, 1864; before Petersburg, 
June 15, 1864, and April 2, 1865 ; assault on Petersburg, June 15 and 
17, 1864; Swift Creek, October 7, 1864; Day's Point, November 14 
and 19, 1864; Fort Fisher, December 25, 1864 and January 15, 1865 ; 
fall of Petersburg, April 2, 1865. 

Roll of Montgomery County. — Company E. — Christopher L. Conrad, 
F. Hout, J. Lousbarge, of Amsterdam; H. Cole, J. H. Ellis, D. H. 
Nothaway, of Florida ; H. C. Topping, B. W. Watson, of Palatine. 

Company F. — Nicholas Bernard, J. Coniton, of Amsterdam ; P. H. 
Becker, B. W. Gilbourne, W. H. Russell, of Root ; G. Buchanan, T. 



SCATTERED COMMANDS. 135 

Sterling, George Stewart, F. Styles, of Florida ; J. Brady, S. Blyth, C. 
Forbes, of Palatine : W. B. Bowdish, James J. Bassett, M. C. Barlow, 
W. H. Colgrove, Delos B. Denise, J. E. Hemstreet, P. McGuire, David 
Pier, A. M. Scott, A. W Vanderwarker, of Charleston ; Z. Smith, of 
Glen; S. Orton,of St. Johnsville. 

Company G. — J. E. Wiggins, of Amsterdam. 

FOURTEENTH REGIMENT, HEAVY ARTILLERY. 

In this regiment were three men in Company C from Amsterdam, 
viz. : H. C. Ferguson, W. Hayes and W. Keep. In Company M was 
F. Hausman, of Amsterdam. The Montgomery county enlistment was 
so small that we are hardly required to give any history of the regi- 
ment, and therefore only mention the names of the men as above 
found. 

SIXTEENTH REGIMENT, HEAVY ARTILLERY. 

On the 19th of June, 1863, Col. Joseph J. Morrison was authorized by 
the war department to recruit an artillery regiment, which, when organ- 
ized in the city of New York, was given the above designation. Com- 
panies F and H, to which the towns of Canajoharie, Minden and St. 
Johnsville contributed about thirty- five men, were mustered into serv- 
ice at Elmira. The Sixteenth left the state by detachments, the local 
companies in January, 1864. The regiment served as heavy artilUerj' 
and infantry at Fortress Monroe, Yorktown and Gloucester Point, but 
was divided and sent on detached service during the greater part of 
1864 and 1865. Company F, in which were several recruits from Can- 
ajoharie and St. Johnsville, was one of six companies that volunteered 
to General Butler to build the Dutch Gap canal, which work was be- 
gun August 9, 1864. The local troops, however, were withdrawn from 
this work after ten days. In July, 1865, the Sixteenth was united and 
commanded by Colonel Morrison. It was honorably discharged and 
mustered out of service August 31, 1865, at Washington. 

Company F. — From Canajoharie — Abraham J. Allen, Julius Barlow, 
John D. Barlow, Samuel F. Bennett, Erastus W. Bowman, Cornelius E. 
Campbell, Charles H. Fuller, Thomas Nolan, Peter H. Riderick. 



136 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

St. Johnsville. — Allen T. Dyslin, Daniel W. Hibbard, Daniel Hess, 
Lorenzo B. Hall, Samuel Knick-erbocker, James L. Rodgers, William 
H. Smith, Clark E. Southerland, John W. Sheffer. 

Company H. — From Canajoharie — George W. Hall, John Moyer, 
Jacob Real, Michael B. Ryan, Andrew Seevy, Michael Seevy. 

Minden. — Dennis P. Canan, Charles C. Hagadorn, William Haga- 
dorn, Henry H. Keller, Peter F. Lyke. 

St. Johnsville. — John B. Churchill, John FuUen, John A. Kelley, 
De Witt Klock, Stephen Lousby. 

IN OTHER COMMANDS. 

It cannot be safely asserted that the foregoing rolls include the 
names of all the Montgomery county volunteers in service during the 
vk'ar of 1861-65. There were many men who left the county and en- 
listed in companies formed in other parts of the state, and were not, 
therefore, credited to their own town. The names of some of these 
have been obtained, but they are classified under the heading adopted 
above. 

Independent Artillery, Battery Two. — From Amsterdam — J. Bleeck, 
J. A. Dawson, J. Davis, R. Dixon, G. Fmn, George R. Lewis. 

Battery Twenty-four. — J. Bartley, H. Plain, J. Billingham. 

Second Veteran Cavalry, Company B. — H Broadstreet, W. McCow- 
art, C. Marsh, W. C. Putnam, D. Sykes, F. H. Styles, all of Amster- 
dam. 

Twentieth Cavalry. — P. Winn, Minden, Company M ; J. Shiel, Pal- 
atine, Company A ; J. Benning, Root, Company B ; C. Neall, Palatine, 
Company B; J. Constant, Root, Company D; S. McNeil, Root, Com- 
pany D. 

One Hundred and Twenty-fourth Regiment. — L. P. Ballard, A. J. 
Messenger, W. Storms, of Florida, all in Company B. 

One Hundred and Twenty -first Regiment. — E. Burlingame, St. Johns- 
ville, Company C. 

Seventy-sixth Regiment. — John Dunn, John Maicos, both of Canajo- 
harie, in Company K. 

Miscellaneous. — N. Wormouth, Fort Plain, Company E, Sixth cav- 
alry ; W. Stanton, Fultonville, Company L, Fifteenth cavalry ; G. J. 
Van Schaick, Amsterdam, Company E, First Mounted Rifles. 



INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 



CHAPTER XVI. 



Internal Iniprovements -- Early Navigation of the Mohawk — The Inland Lock and' 
Navigation Company — The Erie Canal — Railroad Biiildins — The Montgomery 
County Agricnltn;'al Society. 

rOR nearly two centuries, .says a contemporary writer, the Mohawk 
river above Sciienectady has been navigable for small craft ; first 
by the Indians with canoes, followed by the merchants of the east and 
the traders of the frontier in the transportation of wares into the Gen- 
esee country. The navigation of the river, however, was impeded by 
the falls (Little Falls so-called), to overcome which both goods and 
boats were required to be carried a distance of about one mile By the 
establishment also of a carrying place, superseded by a canal, between 
the Mohawk and Wood creek, and by utilizing the waters of Oneida 
lake, the pioneer bateaux carried merchandise from Albany to Oswego. 
For many years this was the chief means of travel from the east to the 
west, families, household goods and supplies being carried by water, 
while horses and cattle were driven along the state road passing through 
the Mohawk valley. The first transportation boats were called bateaux, 
having a carrying capacity of from one to three tons, and were super- 
seded by the Durham boats, capable of carrying ten or fifteen tons. 

In 1782 the Inland Lock and Navigation Company was incorporated, 
the design being to remove river obstructions and build locks at Little 
Falls, at German Flats and also at Rome. To this was to be added 
a canal between the Mohawk and Wood creek, thus furnishing an un- 
impeded water route between the east and west part of the state. 
General Philip Schuyler was the principal promoter of this enterprise 
and associated with him were several Mohawk and Hudson valley cap- 
italists. During the operations of the company, the old bateaux were 
replaced by the more modern Durham boats, but however beneficial 
this method of transportation may have been, it was soon superseded 
by a still more important enterprise, and one which has continued in 
uninterrupted use to the present time — the Erie canal. It is uncertain 

IS 



138 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

who originated the idea of constructing this grand water communication 
through the state, as all previous efforts had been directed to the main- 
tenance of the method attempted by the navigation company. 

It may be said, however, that in 1800 Governeur Morris suggested 
the idea of a direct canal from Lake Erie to the Hudson, his plan being 
to tap the lake and thence have a continuous slope to the high lands 
bordering on the Hudson, with a series of locks thence to' the river. He 
unfolded his plan to the surveyor-general (Simeon De Witt), but the 
latter considered it impracticable. Soon afterward DeWitt in a conver- 
sation with James Geddes (then a land surveyor of Onondaga county), 
mentioned the Morris plan as one of the new schemes which had been 
advanced. M--. Geddes, however, looked at the matter in a different 
light and after reflection concluded that with some modifications, it was 
by far the best plan that had been suggested. He consulted Jesse 
Hawley, and the latter published a series of articles signed " Hercules," 
which were the first ever printed in favor of the Erie Canal. In 1808 
Joshua Forman, member of assembly, introduced a resolution for the 
survey of a canal route, to the end that congress might be induced to 
grant money for the construction of a canal; and the legislature at the 
same time appropriated $600 for surveys, which service was entrusted 
to Mr. Geddes, w ho was directed to level down from Oneida lake to the 
mouth of Salmon creek, to ascertain whether a canal could be opened 
from Oswego falls to lake Ontario, and also to survey the best route 
for a canal around Niagara falls. He was also directed to survey a 
route eastward from lake Ontario to Genesee river and thence to the 
waters following east to Seneca lake. Mr. Geddes' report showed the 
practicability of the last named route, and the project at once excited 
general attention, and secured the influence of De Witt Clinton (then 
senator), and of many other prominent men. In 1810 commissioners, 
with Clinton at their head, were appointed to explore a canal route 
through the centre of the state, and on April 8, 181 1, an act was passed 
to provide for the improvement of internal navigation, to aid which ap- 
plication was made to the general government, but without success. 
The report of the commissioners stated the importance of the measure 
with such eloquence that a law was passed the next year continuing the 
commission and also authorizing it to borrow money and take cessions 



RAILROAD UNDERTAKIISGS. 13J^ 

of land, but the war temporarily caused a suspension of active work un- 
til 1816. when another act authorized a more definite survej-. The 
canal was begun at Rome July 4, 1817, and on October 22, 1819, the 
first boat passed from that village to Utica. The entire work was 
finished October 26, 1825, at a total cost of $7,143,789.86. As first 
constructed the canal was 363 miles long, twenty-eight feet wide at the 
bottom and forty feet at the top, and four feet deep. Its enlargement 
was ordered May 11, 1835. 

As the first boat, with Governor Clinton on board, entered the canal 
at Buffalo on October 26, 1825, a line of cannon, previously arranged 
a few miles apart, fired signals to Albany and down the Hudson to 
Sandy Hook, whence they were returned in the same manner. The 
commissioners under whom the Erie canal was constructed were Ste- 
phen Van Rensselaer, De Witt Clinton, Joseph Ellicott, Samuel Young, 
and Myron Holley, William C. Bouck being added to this number in 
1821. The chief engineers were James Geddes and Benjamin Wright, 
neither of whom had ever before seen a canal, or even had the means 
of acquiring any other knowledge of engineering except that obtained 
from surveying land. The precision with which their surveys were ex- 
ecuted, under such circumstances, has been regarded as truly wonder- 
ful. The canal was great for its day, but progress demanded a still 
greater advance, which was soon developed by the use of the iron 
horse. 

The Mohawk and Hudson railroad, connecting Albany and Schenec- 
tady, led to the Utica and Schenectady railroad, organized April 29, 
1833, with a capital of $2,000,000, its object being to build and operate 
a line of railroad between the two last mentioned cities. The incorpora- 
tion of the Utica and Schenectady company was the first step toward 
the construction of a railroad through Montgomery county, and hence 
was an event of unusual importance in local history. The first board 
of directors, among whom were names familiar in Montgomery county, 
was as follows: Erastus Corning, John Tovvnsend, Lewis Benedict, 
James Porter, Alonzo C. Paige, Tobias A. Stoutenburgh, Nathaniel S. 
Benton, Nicholas Devereaux, Henry Seymour, Alfred Munson, James 
Hooker, John Mason and Churchill C. Cambreling. The work of con- 
structing the road was begun soon after the organization and completed, 
and it was opened for transportation on August i, 1836. 



"140 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

In 1853 there were in operation several railroads owned by various 
stock companies, forming a continuous line of travel from New York to 
Buffalo through the Hudson and Mohawk river valleys and the Genesee 
country. In the year 1853, by virtue of an act of the legislature, these 
companies were consolidated under the name of the New York Central 
Railroad Company, which became owners and lessees of the entire line. 
The latter, by various changes, modifications and processes of law, is 
now known as the New York Central and Hudson River Railroad 
Company. The advantages derived by the people of this country from 
the construction and operation of this road are so well understood that 
comment is unnecessary. The same company is also the lessee of the 
West Shore road, built during 1882 and 1883, and- then known as the 
New York, West Shore and Buffalo railroad. It was intended to com- 
pete with the Central Hudson, and was operated in this manner for sev- 
eral years, but was finally absorbed by the latter. 

The early success of the Utica and Schenectady railroad led the 
people of Johnstown and Gloversville to also organize a similar enter- 
prise, it being highly important for these places to have rapid and easy 
access to the Mohawk valley road. To this end the Johnstown Rail- 
road Company was incorporated, May 13, 1836, with a capital of $75,- 
000, but it proved unsuccessful and many a year elapsed before the 
scheme was in operation. It was not, indeed, until 1S70 that a railroad 
connected Gloversville and the Mohawk valley. 

The Fonda, Johnstown and Gloversville Railroad Company, to which 
reference is now made, was organized June 16, 1867, and after over- 
coming many obstacles succeeded in completing their track at the lapse 
of three years. It connects with the Central- Hudson at Fonda, the 
same depot being used by both companies. It may here be added that 
the Gloversville and Northville Railroad Company (whose line is a con- 
tinuation of the F., J. and G. road) was organized in 1872, and com- 
pleted road in 1875. 

In the present connection we ma\- properly recall some of the rail- 
roads which have been laid out through Montgomery county, but 
which never got beyond the mere project. One was the Fish House 
and Amsterdam Railroad Company, organized April 26, 1832, the ob- 
ject being to build a track between the two places above mentioned ; its 



AGRICULTURE. 141 

capital was $250,000, but after the plan had been drawn no work was 
ever done. 

Another was the Catskill and Canajoharie Railroad Company which 
was organized April 19, 1830, with a capital of $600,000, the object 
being to build a track from Catskill to Canajoharie. It was built from 
Catskill to Cooksburg at a cost of $400,000, but in 1842 it was aban- 
donedand the road bed was sold. 

The Mohawk Valley Railroad Company was organized January 11, 
185 1, having a capital of $2,000,000. It proposed to build a road 
between Utica and Schenectady, but nothing was done beyond making 
surveys. 

To return to agriculture, it may be said that the earliest efforts of 
nearly all of the pioneers of the Mohawk valley were directed to agri- 
cultural pursuits, for like all first settlers, they were poor in purse and 
dependent almost wholly upon the products of the soil. As farmers, 
their ideas were primitive, and the suggestion of improvement, either 
in implements or in the grade of stock, found little encouragement. 
They were, however, a sturdy, industrious people, living entirely with- 
in their means and controlled by their inherited customs. Hence they 
were not easily led by the notions of new comers, however beneficial 
the latter really may have been. Even Sir William found much diffi- 
culty in superseding old customs, and on one occasion, in 1765, 
expressed himself thus in a letter to the English Society for the Pro- 
motion of Arts : " The state of agriculture in the country is very low, and 
in short likely to remain so, to the great detriment of the province, 
which otherwise might draw many resources from so extensive and val- 
uable a country ; but the turn of the old settlers here is not much 
calculated for improvement ; content with the mere necessaries of life, 
they don't choose to purchase its superfluities at the expense of labor, 
neither will they hazard the smallest matter for the most reasonable 
prospect of gain, and this principle will probably subsist as long as that 
of their equalit}', which is at present at such a pitch that the conduct of 
one neighbor can but little influence that of another." 

It may be said, however, that whatever doubt the baronet may have 
entertained concerning improvement among the original settlers, a sub- 
stantial progress was made in agriculture by their thrifty descendants 



142 HISTOliY OF MONTTGOMERT COUNTY. 

and by the enterprising New Englanders who occupied the region soon 
after the revolution. During the closing years of the last century, the 
state made some provision for improvement in agriculture, but it yielded 
no profitable results until 1801, when the territory of the state was- 
divided into agricultural districts (each county comprising one) and a 
secretary appointed for each, whose duty was to inquire into the con- 
dition of the farmers and report to the central head of the society. 
Premiums were awarded for superiority in certain products, but the 
crops were apparently of secondary importance, in 1819, however, an 
appropriation was made b\' the state, for distribution among the counties, 
to promote both agriculture and domestic manufactures, but how the 
funds were divided and what awards were made cannot be ascertained. 
In the same year also, an agricultural society was formed at Johnstown 
of which Henry F. Cox was president, and James Mclntyre secretary. 
The first annual fair was held October 12, and each year afterward until 
the division of the county, when the society became a Fulton county 
institution, while that formed a few years later at Fonda was virtually 
a new organization. 

In 1 841 the state appropriated $40,000, part of which was used to 
reorganize the state agricultural society, and the other part for division 
among the societies for the promotion of agricultural pursuits. Under 
the provisions of the act of 1841, the Montgomery County Agricultural 
Society was organized, but this did not take place until September 20, 
1844. At a meeting then held at the court-house in Fonda the first 
officers and directors were elected as follows : President, Tunis I. Van- 
derveer; vice-president, Joshua Reed, Peter H. Fonda ; secretary, John 
Frey ; treasurer, John Nellis ; directors, Benedict Arnold, Amsterdam ; 
Robert Baird, Charlestown ; Jeremiah W. Gardner, Canajoharie ; Law- 
rence Servoss, Florida ; Richard Hudson, Glen ; Barney Becker, Minden ; 
Lyndes Jones, Mohawk; Wm. Snell, Palatine; George Spraker, Root; 
John Y. Edwards, St. Johnsville. The first fair was held on the court- 
house grounds on the ilth and 12th of November, 1 844, and for the 
next three years at the same place. The fifth and twelfth fairs were 
held at Canajoharie ; the tenth at Fort Plain ; the eleventh at St. Johns- 
ville. In 1856 Fonda was designated as a permanent location for the 
annual meetings, and in 1863 part of the old Van Home estate was 



BENCH AND BAR. 143 

purchased, upon which was erected suitable buildings, while a half mile 
racing and exhibiting track was added to complete the grounds. Since 
then the fairs have been considered successful, the attendance being 
usually large and the receipts sufficient not only to enable the society 
the meet all obligations but to enlarge its grounds and erect thereon 
more spacious exhibiting halls. Present officers : Stephen Sanford, 
president; T. B. Vanderveer, Wm. Clark, vice-presidents ; Wm. Wiles, 
treasurer ; George L. Davis, secretary ; L. A. Starin, J. B. Snow, G. 
M. Vorhees, executive committee ; directors, John T. De Graff, Stephen 
Collins, John V. Sweet, Amsterdam; A. C. PhiHips, 1st Ward; Edward 
McDonald, 2d Ward; Dr. Wm. H. Robb, 3d Ward ; David Mathias, 
4th Ward ; George Vanderveer, 5th Ward of Amsterdam city ; A. B. 
Miller, Ephraim Lipe, Lewis Bierbauer, Canajoharie ; P. A. Dingman, 
M. S. Holmes, J. N. Morford, Charleston; James Herrick, Hiram 
Schuyler, Frank McClumpha, Florida ; Ira Vanderveer, John Edwards, 
J. H. Faulkner, Glen ; F. L. Bauder, Abram Dievendorf, David G. 
Hackney, Minden ; George Ingersoll, John W. Wilson, Robert L. 
Bearcroft, Mohawk ; John P. Snell, John W. Nellis, Jacob Saltsman, 
Palatine ; Jacob Dievendorf, George Dillenbeck, Charles Dievendorf, 
Root ; Peter F. Nellis, Abram I. Klock, Alfred Niles, St. Johnsville. 



CHAPTER XVn. 
THE LEGAL PROFESSION IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

I~'HE sentiment is commonly expressed that the judicial system of 
the state of New York is largely copied from the common law of 
England. This is true in many respects, and such resemblances are 
frequent, but a close study of the history af the laws and judicial prac- 
tice of this state will reveal the fact that they are in many respects an 
original growth. This is strikingly manifested in the simple matter of 
entitling a criminal process. In this state it is the people versus the 
criminal ; in England it is rex versus the criminal. In the one the re- 
quirement is an independent judiciary responsible to the people only; 
in the other it is a court subservient to a king. 



144 HISTORY OF MON^TGOMERY COUNTY. 

This great idea of the sovereignty of the people, even over our laws, 
has had a slow, conservative, yet progressive and systematic unfolding 
of the germ into organism. In the early history of the state the gov- 
ernor was in effect the maker, interpreter, as well as executor of the 
laws. He was the chief judge of the court of final resort, while his 
councillors were generally his subservient followers. The e.vecution of 
English and colonial statutes rested with him, as did also the exercise of 
royal authority in the province ; and it was not until the adoption of 
the first constitution in 1777, that he ceased to contend for these pre- 
rogatives and to act as though the only functions of the court and coun- 
cillors were to do his bidding as servants, while the legislature should 
adopt only such laws as the executive should suggest and approve. By 
the first constitution the governor was entirely stripped of the judicial 
power which he possessed under the colonial rule, and this power was 
vested in the lieutenant-governor and the senate, also in the chancellor 
and justices of the Supreme Court; the former to be elected by the 
people, and the latter to be appointed by the council. Under this con- 
stitution there was the first radical separation of the judicial and legis- 
lative powers and the advancement of the judiciary to a position of a 
CO ordinate department of the government, and subject only to the lim- 
itation consequent upon the appointment of its members by the coun- 
cil. This restriction, however, was soon felt to be incompatible, though 
it was not until the adoption of the constitution of 1846 that the last 
connection between the purely political and judicial parts of state gov- 
ernment was abolished, and with it disappeared the last remaining relic 
of the colonial period. From this time the judiciary became more di- 
rectly representative, of the people. The development of the idea of 
the responsibility of the courts to the people, from the time when all its 
members were at the beck of an irresponsible master, to the time when 
all judges (even of the court of last resort), are voted for directly by the 
people, has been indeed remarkable. 

Let us now look briefly at the present arrangement and powers of the 
courts of the state, and then at the elements from which they have 
grown. The whole scheme is involved in the idea of first a trial before 
a magistrate and jury — arbiters, respectively, of law and fact — and then 
a review by a higher tribunal of the facts and law, and ultimately of the 



TPIB SUPREME COURT. 14S 

law, by a court of last resort. To accomplish the purposes of this 
scheme there has been devi-^ed and established, first, the present Court 
of Appeals, the ii'.'iir.ate tribunal of the state, perfected in its present 
form by tii" ..unvention of 1867 and '68, and ratified by a vote of the 
r^eopie in 1869; and taking the place of the old court for the trial of 
impeachments and correction of errors. The Court of Appeals as first 
organized under the constitution of 1 846, was composed of eight judges, 
four of whom were elected by the people and the remainder chosen 
from the justices of the Supreme Court having the shortest time to serve. 
As reorganized in 1869 and now existing, the court consists of a chief 
judge and six associate judges, who hold office for the term of fourteen 
years. 

This court is continually in session at the capital in Albany, e.xcept 
as it takes a recess on its own motion. It has full power to correct or 
reverse the decisions of all inferior courts when brought before it for re- 
view. Five judges constitute a quorum, and four must concur to render 
judgment. If four do not agree the case must be reargued; but no 
more than two rehearings can be had, and if then four judges do not 
concur, the judgment of the court below stands affirmed. The legisla- 
ture has provided how and when proceedings and decisions of inferior 
tribunals may be reviewed, and may in its discretion alter or amend the 
same. Upon the reorganization of the court in 1869, its work was far 
in arrears, and the law commonly known as the "judiciary act " pro- 
vided for a commission of appeals to aid the Court of Appeals ; and still 
more recently there has been organized a second division to assist in 
the distribution of the business of the general court caused by an 
overcrowded calendar. 

Second to the Court of Appeals in rank and jurisdiction stands the 
Supreme Court, which is made up of many and widely different ele- 
ments. It was originally created by act of the colonial legislature. May 
6, 1691, and finally by order of the governor and council May 15, 1699, 
and was empowered to try all issues to the same extent as the English 
courts of King's Bench, Common Pleas and Exchequer, except in the 
exercise of equity powers. It had jurisdiction inactions involving one 
hundred dollars and over, and to revise and correct the decisions of in- 
ferior courts. An appeal lay from it to the governor and council. The 
19 



146 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

judges, of whom at first there were five, made an annual circuit of the 
county, undec a commission issued by the governor, and giving them 
nisi prills, oyer and terminer, and jail delivery powers. Under the first 
constitution the court was reorganized, the judges being then named by 
the council of appointment, and all proceedings were directed to be en- 
titled in the name of the people. 

By the constitution of 1821, many and important changes were made 
in the character and methods of the court. The judges were reduced 
to three, and appointed bj' the governor with the consent of the senate, 
to hold office during good behavior, or until sixty years of age. They 
were removable by the legislature on the vote of two-thirds of the 
assembly and a majority of the senate. Four times a year the full 
court sat in review of their decisions upon questions of law. By the 
constitution of 1846 the Supreme Court was abolished, and a new court 
of the same name and having general jurisdiction in law and equity was 
established in its place. This court was divided into General Term, 
Circuits, Special Terms and Oyer and Terminer. Its members were 
composed of thirty-three justices to be elected by the people, and to 
reside five in the first and four in each of the seven other judicial dis- 
tricts into which the state was divided. By the judiciary act of 1847, 
general terms were to be held at least once in each year in counties 
having more than 40,000 inhabitants, and in other counties once in two 
years ; and at least two special terms and two circuits were to be held 
yearly in each county except Hamilton. By this act the court was 
authorized to name the times and places of holding its terms, and those 
of the Oyer and Terminer, the latter being a part of the Circuit Court, 
and held by the justice, the county judge and two justices of sessions. 
Since 1882 the Oyer and Terminer consists of a single justice of the 
Supreme Court. 

The Court of Chancery of the State of New York was an heir- 
loom of the colonial period, and it had its origin in the Court of 
Assizes, the latter being invested with equity powers under the duke's 
laws. The court was established in 1683, and the governor (or such 
person as he should appoint), assisted by the council, was designated as 
its chancellor. In 1698 the court went out of existence bj' limitation ; 
was revived by ordinance in 1701 ; suspended in 1703 and re-estab- 



THE SUPREME COURT. 14T 

lished the next year. At first the Court of Chancery was unpopular in 
the province, the assembly and the colonists opposing it with the argu- 
ment that the crown had no authority to establish an equity court in 
the colony. 

Under the constitution of 1777 the court was recognized, but its 
chancellor was prohibited from holding any other office except delegate 
to congress upon special occasions. Upon the reorganization of the 
court in 1778, masters and examiners in chancery were provided to be 
appointed by the council of appointment ; while registers and clerks 
were appointed by the chancellor, and the latter licensed all solicitors 
and counselors of the court. Under the constitution of 1821 the chan- 
cellor was appointed by the governor and held office during good be- 
havior or until sixty years of age. Appeals lay from the Chancery 
Court to the Court for the Correction of Errors. 

Under the second constitution equity powers were vested in the cir- 
cuit judges, and their decisions were reviewable on appeal to the chan- 
cellor. This equity character, however, was soon taken from the cir- 
cuit judges, and the duties devolved upon the chancellor, while the 
judges referred to acted as vice-chancellors in their respective circuits. 
The constitution of 1846 abolished the Court of Chancery, and its pow- 
ers and duties were vested in the Supreme Court, 

By an act of the legislature passed in 1848 and entitled the " Code of 
Procedure," all distinctions between actionsat law and suits inequity were 
abolished, so far as the manner of commencing and conducting the same 
was concerned, and one uniform method of practice in all actions was 
provided. Under this act appeals lay to the general term of the Su- 
preme Court from judgments rendered in justice's, mayor's or record- 
er's and county courts, and from all orders and decisions of a justice at 
special term or circuit, and from judgments rendered at any trial term 
of the Supreme Court. 

The judiciary article of the constitution of 1 846 was amended in 1 869, 
the legislature being authorized to provide (not more often than once in 
five years) for the organization of general terms consisting of a presid- 
ing justice and not more than three associates, but by Chapter 408 of 
the laws of 1770, the then organization of the general terms was abro- 
gated, and the state was divided into four departments, and provision 



148 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

made for holding general terms in each. By the same act the governor 
was directed to designate from the justices of the Supreme Court, a 
presiding justice and two associates to constitute a general term in each 
department. Under the authority of the constitutional amendment 
adopted in 1882, the legislature, in 1883, divided the state into five 
judicial departments, and provided for the election of twelve additional 
justices to hold oflfice from the first Monday in June, 1884. 

In June, 1877, the legislature enacted the code of civil procedure to 
take the place of the code of 1848. By this many minor changes in the 
practice of the court were made, among them a provision that every two 
years the justices of the general terms and the chief judges of the su- 
perior city courts should meet and revise and establish general rules of 
practice for all the courts of record in the state, except the Court of 
Appeals. 

These are, in brief, the changes through which the Supreme Court 
has passed in its growth from the prerogative of an irresponsible gov- 
ernor to one of the most independent and enlightened instrumentalities 
for the protection and attainment of the rights of citizens of which any 
nation, ancient or modern, can boast. So well is this fact understood 
by the people that by far the greater amount of business which might 
be done in inferior courts at less expense, is actually taken to this court 
for settlement. 

Next in inferiority to the Supreme Court is the County Court, held 
in and for each county in the state at such times and places as its judges 
may direct. This court had its origin in the English Court of Sessions, 
and like it had at first only criminal jurisdiction. By an act passed in 
1683 a Court of Sessions, having power to try both civil and criminal 
causes by jury, was directed to be held by three justices of the peace in 
each of the counties of the province twice a year, with an additional 
term in Albany and two in New York. By the act of 1691. and the 
decree of 1669, all civil jurisdiction was taken from this court and con- 
ferred on the Common Pleas. By the sweeping changes made by the 
constitution of 1846, provision was made for a County Court in each 
county of the state, except New York, to be held by an officer to be 
designated " the County Judge," and to have such jurisdiction as the 
legislature might prescribe. 



0' 



/.*#^-: 



^--^% 







<^ 



THE COUNTY COURT — SURROGATE'S COURT. 149 

Under the authority of this constitution county courts have, from 
time to time, been given jurisdiction in various classes of actions, and 
and have also been invested with certain equity powers in the foreclo- 
sure of mortgages and the sale of infants' real estate, and also to parti- 
tion lands and to admeasure dower and care for the persons and estates 
of lunatics and habitual drunkards. The judiciary act of 1869 contin- 
ued the existing jurisdiction in all actions in which the defendant lived 
within the county and the damages claimed did not exceed one thou- 
sand dollars. 

Like the Supreme Court, the County Court now has its civil and 
criminal sides. In criminal matters the county judge is assisted by two 
justices of sessions, elected by the people from among the justices of the 
peace in the county. It is in the criminal branch of this court, known 
as the " Sessions," that the minor criminal offenses are now disposed of. 
All indictments, except for murder or some very serious felony, are 
sent to it for trial from the Oyer and Terminer. By the codes of 1848 
and 1877 the methods and procedure and practice are made to conform 
as nearly as possible to the practice of the Supreme Court. This was 
done with the evident design of attracting litigation into these minor 
courts, and thus relieving the Supreme Court. In this purpose, how- 
ever, there has been an evident failure, as litigants much prefer 
the broader powers of the Supreme Court. By the judiciary act the 
term of office of county judges was extended from four to six years. 
Under the code the judges can perform some of the duties of a justice 
of the Supreme Court at chambers. The County Court has appellate 
jurisdiction over actions arising in Justice's Courts and Courts of Special 
Sessions. Appeals lay from the County Court direct to the General 
Term. 

Surrogate's Courts, one of which exists in each county of the state, 
are now courts of record, having a seal, and their especial jurisdiction 
is the settlement and care of estates, both of infants and also of the dead. 
The derivation of the powers and practice of these courts is from the 
Ecclesiastical Court of England, also through a part of the Colonial 
Council which existed during the rule of the Dutch, and exercised its 
authority in accordance with the Dutch Roman law, the custom of Am- 
sterdam and the law of Aasdom, the Court of Burgomasters and Schep- 



150 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ens, the Court of Orphan Masters, tlie Mayor's Court, the Prerogative 
Court and the Court of Probates. 

The settlement of estates and the guardianship of orphans, which was 
at first vested in the director general and Council of New Netherland, 
was transferred to the burgomasters in 1653, and soon after to the 
orphans' masters. Under the colony the Prerogative Court controlled 
all matters in relation to the probate of wills and settlement of estates. 
This power continued until 1692, when, by act of legislation, all pro- 
bates and granting of letters of administration were to be under the 
hand of the governor or his delegates, and two freeholders were ap- 
pointed in each town to take charge of the estates of persons dying 
intestate. Under the duke's laws this duty had been performed by the 
constables, overseers, and justices of each town. In 1778 the governor 
was divested of all this power, except the appointment of surrogate, and 
it was conferred upon the judges of the Court of Probates. 

Under the first constitution surrogates were appointed bj' the Coun- 
cil of Appointment, but under the second constitution by the governor 
with the approval of the senate. The constitution of 1846 abolished 
the office of surrogate in all counties having less than forty thousand 
population, and conferred its powers and duties upon the county judge. 
By the Code of Civil Procedure surrogates were invested with all the 
necessary powers to carry out the equitable and incidental requirements 
of their office. In its present form, with weekly sessions, this court af- 
fords a cheap and expeditious medium for the care and settlement of 
estates and the guardianship of infants. 

The only remaining courts which are common to the whole state are 
the Special Sessions, held by a justice of the peace for the trial of minor 
criminal offenses, and also Justice's Courts with a limited civil jurisdic- 
tion. Previous to the constitution of 1821 (modified in 1826), justices 
of the peace were appointed, but since that time they have been elected. 
The office and its duties are descended from the English office of the 
same name, but are much less important, and under the laws of this 
state it is purely the creature of the statute. 

This brief survey of the courts of New York, which omits only those 
that are local in character, gives the reader some idea of the machinery 
provided for the use of the members of the Bench and Bar at the time 



THE COURT-HOUSE. 151 

of the creation of Tryon county in 1772, and Montgomery county in 
1784. 

The organization of the courts in old Tryon county was an event of 
great importance in local history. The creation of the county itself 
was, as has been mentioned, due to the influence of Sir William John- 
son, and he likewise named the officers first appointed to administer its 
affairs. The first members of the court were as follows : Guy Johnson, 
Judge ; John Butler and Peter Conyne, judges ; Sir John Johnson, Dan- 
iel Claus, John Wells and Jelles Fonda, assistant judges; John Collins, 
Joseph Chew, Adam Loucks, John Frey Young and Peter Ten Broeck, 
justices. 

On the formation of Tryon county Johnstown was naturally desfg- 
nated its seat of justice, and during the same year (1772) the court- 
house and jail were erected. The removal of the county seat from 
Johnstown, in 1836, became a public necessity, and a general demand 
led to the selection of Fonda as the new capital of Montgomery. 

Fonda Court-House. — This building, which will soon be abandoned 
because of the noise occasioned by the cars, has some very interesting 
associations. It was erected in 1836, and a tablet in the wall mentions 
Rowland Fish, Aaron C. Whitlock and Henry Adams as commissioners 
who superintended the work. The entire expense of the court-house and 
jail was if 15,000, which then was a large sum. This court-house has 
witnessed some very important trials, among which was the Putman 
ejectment case in which both Nicholas Hill and John Van Buren dis- 
played their forensic abilities. One of the most interesting scenes how- 
ever, was a trial in which a man, who, though not a professional lawyer, 
plead his own case in the most masterly manner, and to heighten the 
importance of the occasion it may be added that the person referred to 
was the novelist, J. Fenimore Cooper. He had prosecuted a Coopers- 
town editor for libel, and the venue had been changed to Montgomery 
county because of the bitter prejudice against the author at home. 
Cooper presented a grand appearance as he stood before the court, six 
feet high and finely proportioned, with a massive head and a cultivated 
face, and his address to the jury showed that he had fine power of ora- 
tory. The defence was conducted by Joshua Spencer of Utica, who was 
very eloquent, but the unfortunate editor had no chance of escape under 



152 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

the unjust interpretation of the law which then prevailed. Cooper was 
triumphant, but his victory cost him more in loss of popularity than the 
amount of his petty verdict. 

The court house, as has been said, will be abandoned, but may be 
turned to other uses and is too fine a building to be destroyed. It is 
really the best specimen of Ionic architecture in the state, next to the 
custom-house in New York. 

Previous to the removal from Johnstown to P'onda the greater part 
of the lawyers of Montgomery county were residents of the first men- 
tioned place. Hence we shall now briefly refer to some of those whose 
professional and public life rendered them prominent. 

Recollections of the Old Bar. — The bar of Montgomery count)- has 
ever been noted for its strength. On the bench, as well as pleading in 
the courts have been men of the highest professional character and of 
great moral worth. Among the leading legal minds of this state Mont- 
gomery county has furnished a liberal proportion, many of whom have 
attained distinction and some eminence. They were indeed character- 
ized by strict integrity as well as rare ability — qualities which have given 
them a high standard, not only in our courts, but also in the legislative 
halls both of the state and the nation. 

Foremost among the leading lawyers of the county, and one of the 
most noted in the state during the early years of the present century 
was Daniel Cady, a native of Columbia county, born in April, 1773. 
He read law with John Wentworth, at Albany and was admitted to the 
state courts in 1795, after which he found Johnstown a suitable field for 
his profession, and became at once the acknowledged leader of the bar, 
a position he justly maintained throughout the long period of his prac- 
tice. Tn 1808 he was elected to the assembly and re- elected in 1809— 
Ii_i2-i3. In 1814 he was elected to congress, and in 1847 ^t^ i849 
to the Supreme Court. The rival candidate for judicial honors was 
Judge Fine, a lawyer of ability and popularity, but Judge Cady's great 
strength gave but little chance to any opposition. Judge Cady had two 
sons who died early in life, and six daughters, all of whom were charac- 
terized by more than usual intellectual endowment, and one of whom — 
Elizabeth Cady Stanton — has reached prominence in discussing some 
of the leading questions of the day. When first elected to the bench 







^ 




FORMER MEMBERS OF THE BAR. 153; 

Judge Cady had passed his seventieth year, but at his second election 
he was seventy seven. He resigned his office in 1855 and died five 
years later, on October 30, 1859. 

Henry Cunningham was one of the most brilliant }oung advocates at 
the bar of the county, but his life was too short for the full develop- 
ments of his mental resources. His greatest prominence was attained 
during his term in the a?sembly (session of 1824), in his bold and mas- 
terly defence of De Witt Clinton, who was removed by a political cabal 
from the board of canal commissioners. 

Benjamin Chamberlain was prominent among the Johnstown law- 
yers for many years. He erected in 1816 the finest brick house in 
the county, which is still standing, and though no longer used as a 
dwelling still retains its ancient dignity. Donald Mclntyre who be- 
came the first judge of Fulton county, was a student in Mr. Cham- 
berlain's office. Later on Mr. Mclntyre moved to Ann Arbor, but 
afterward returned to Johnstown and engaged in banking. His last 
days, however, were passed in Ann Arbor. 

William I. Dodge, who was for many years noted both in the legal 
and political world, was a native of Johnstown. He was member of the 
state convention in 1821, and was also elected to the state senate. 
Later on he removed to Syracuse, where he died. 

Charles McVean, who was born and bred in Johnstown, studied law 
with William L Dodge, and succeeded him in the district attorneyship. 
He was elected to congress in 1832, serving during the session of 
1833-35. He removed to New York, where he became surrogate, but 
he died before the expiration of his office. 

Edward Bayard, a member of the historic family of that name, married 
a daughter of Daniel Cady, and became a member of the Montgomery 
county bar. Later on, however, he e.xchanged law for medicine and 
having removed to New York attained high rank in his profession. He 
died September 28, 1869. 

Daniel Paris and Mathias B Hildreth were prominent Montgomrry 
county lawyers during the early part of the present century. The 
former was son of Isaac Paris who was slain at Oriskany. He served 
a term in the state senate and wielded great influence while member of 
the council of appointments. Later on he removed to Troy but he died 
20 



154 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

in New York. Mathias B. Hildieth became attorney-general, and his 
business led him to the state capital, but he died in Johnstown, and his 
grave may be seen in the old cemetery. 

Aaron Haring came from New Jersey and was for many years a 
prominent member of the bar, being at one time chief judge of the 
Common Pleas. His office stood for half a century on the court-house 
lot and as he reached an advanced age, he is remembered by many of 
the older citizens. 

Abraham Morrell was also a noted lawyer and he held the office of 
judge of the Common Pleas for many years. He was a zealous politi- 
cian, and was the first to raise a hickory pole in Johnstown, which took 
place on Jackson's second presidential canvass in 1832. 

Peter Brooks came from Herkimer and was brother-in-law of Cap- 
tain George I. Eacker who killed Philip Hamilton in a duel. Mr. 
Brooks passed a large part of his life in Johnstown, where lie built an 
elegant house. 

James L. Veeder was born at Fonda, where his parents lived for 
many years and reared a large and respectable family. He was educa- 
ted at Union college, and after graduating pursued legal study with 
Austin Yates. He was admitted and began the practice of his profes- 
sion at Fonda, but removed to Johnstown where his prospects were 
highly favorable. His career, however, was brought to an untimely 
close by typhoid fever. 

Hezkiah Baker was an old attorney at St. Johnsville and in 1853-54 
and again in 1857 was in the assembly, being then a leader of the Whig 
party. He was a self made man, a good lawyer and fearlessly honest 
in the performance of duty. In 1868 he was elected district attorney. 
He died in St. Johnsville quite recently. 

John Darrow, of Fort Plain, was one of the leading lawyers of the 
county during his time and was appointed judge of the Common Pleas 
February 15, 1846. He died many years ago. 

Peter J. Wagner was born in Palatine in 1795, and was the son of 
Joseph Wagner who settled in Minden in 1805. He became one of the 
leading lawyers of the county and represented this district in congress 
in the sessions of 1839-41. He died at Fort Plain at an advanced 
ape. 



FORMER MEMBERS OF THE BAR. 155 

Henry Adams was originally a merchant, but preferred the law in 
which he won an enviable position. He practiced for many years at 
Fort Plain and then moved to New Jersey, where he died. 

Peter J. Webster, of Fort Plain, more commonly known as Colonel 
Webster, a militia title, was the son of Dr. Joshua Webster, and a native 
of Minden. He was a bright lawyer and was elected district attorney 
in 1853. He is remembered as a kind-hearted man as well as a popu- 
lar advocate. 

James Genter, also of Fort Plain, is remembered as a careful, plod- 
ding attorney of early days, when the profession was more laborious 
than profitable. 

George Yost was a native of Johnstown. He studied law with Dan- 
iel Cady who made him a business partner. Eventually Mr. Yost re- 
moved to Fort Plain where he attained wealth and professional distinc- 
tion and was elected county judge. He died in 1888. 

Lorenzo Crounse was the law parner of Peter J. Wagner. He was in 
practice in 1850, but afterwards left the county and became prominent 
in politics in the west, being in 1892 the Republican candidate for 
governor of Nebraska. 

David Eacker was a prominent lawyer and public man in Canajo- 
harie many years ago, being a strong Whig and of much influence in 
his party. He was commonly called "Judge" Eacker, probably as as- 
sociate judge in the Common Pleas. He had two sons, Josiah and 
Charles, both lawyers, the former removing to Wisconsin and the latter 
to New York. 

Thomas B. Mitchell, of Canajoharie, was a lawyer of ability. He 
gained much popularity in the county, and was four times elected 
senator, 1843—44—45-46. Later on he removed to Schenectady, continu- 
ing practice there, and it is said that whenever he was engaged in the 
trial of a cause the college students always came to the court-house to 
observe his peculiar manner. 

John Cummings was practicing law at Canajoharie when the county 
seat was removed to Fonda, and was among the older lawyers of the 
county at that time. 

In recalling the names of former legal practitioners of Canajoharie we 
should also mention James H. Cook and George Smith, the former of 



156 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

whom was elected county judge in 1867. Mr. Smith removed to Am- 
sterdam, where he died several years ago. 

Phineas Randall, who lived and practiced law at Ames, six miles 
south of Canajoharie, was one of the old lawyers of the county, and 
judge of the Common Pleas in 1841, his predecessor being Abraham 
Morrell, and his successor John Darrow. He was the father of Alex- 
ander W. Randall, at one time governor of Wisconsin, also postmaster- 
general under President Lincoln. Also he was the father of Edwin M. 
Randall, who was justice of the Supreme Court of Florida during the re- 
construction period. 

Among the old legal practioners at Palatine Bridge we can recall 
the names Henry Loucks and John Frey, both able law\ers, who did 
good service in their day. 

Isaac Tiffany was one of the old bar, and a resident of Fultonville. 
He studied law with Aaron Burr, and had many reminiscences of that 
famous character. 

Cornelius Putnam was a lawyer of Glen village, and had a large local 
influence. 

Giles F. Van Vechten also practiced in the same town, and was the 
last of the appointed surrogates of the county, his appointment dating 
April I, 1S43. In 1845 he was elected county clerk; later on he re- 
moved to New York, where he died in 1889. 

Howland F"ish was a native of Dutchess county, and descended from 
a family prominent in the revolution. He was educated at Yale and 
then studied law at Hudson. Later on he became law partner with 
Aaron Haring at Johnstown, where he was also appointed postmaster. 
He was a member of the constitutional convention in 1821, and repre- 
sented the county several times in the legislature. He was also one of 
the commissioners appointed to erect the court-house and jail after 
their removal from Johnstown. The largest part of his life was spent 
in Fultonville, where he was for many years the leading counsellor. 

Frothingham Fish, son of the above, pursued the same profession in 
which he attained great eminence. He has always been a Montgomery 
county man, and occupies the house and office erected by his father. 
The best proof of his abilities is found in the fact that he was elected 
justice of the Supreme Court and was an honor to the bench. Judge 



FORMER MEMBERS OF THE BAR. 157 

Fish also twice represented the county in the legislature. He has 
passed his entire professional life in Fultonville, where he has acquired 
wealth and public respect. 

Robert Bronk Fish, son of the above, was educated at Union college 
and studied law with his father. He has held the office of district at- 
torney and is still engaged in the practice of his profession. 

Leonard F. Fish, who is the youngest of the judge's sons, is also en- 
gaged in law practice and occupies the same office, which has thus 
served three generations of the same profession, 

Daniel G. Lobdell, a native of Johnstown, studied law with William 
I. Dodge and later on became a partner with Alonzo Adams, of Fort 
Plain, where he died in 1875. 

Nicholas Hill was born at the old Hill farm (as it is still called) near 
Minaville. He read law with Phineas Randall and was noted for ap- 
plication. His ambition, indeed, rendered legal service his pastime as 
well as study. Later on he studied with the once famous Judge Cowen, 
whose office he left to begin practice, first at Amsterdam, and afterwards 
at Albany. His progress at the bar was rapid and yet not more so than 
had been predicted by those who had marked his early promise. He 
reached the highest position in his profession, being at last the most 
powerful practitioner before the Court of Appeals. In the language of 
Charles O'Connor he " held the first place in the bar of the state." He 
died May 5, 1859, in his fifty-fourth year, and was buried in the Albany 
cemetery. 

Marcus T. Reynolds was also a noted member of the Montgomery 
county bar. He reached distinction while practicing in Amsterdam 
and afterward removed to Albanj', where he held pre-eminence until 
removed by death. 

Deodatus Wright was also a distinguished member of the Montgom- 
ery county bar. He lived in Amsterdam, but afterward followed the 
above mentioned example and removed to Albany where he was made 
judge of the Supreme Court. Piatt Potter, who also began his pro- 
fession in this county, removed to Schenectady where he, too, reached 
a position on the Supreme Court bench. Alfred Conkling, who lived 
at Canajoharie, was also a noted member of the Montgomery county 
bar. He was elected to congress, and later on was appointed judge of 
the United States Court. He was the father of Roscoe Conkling. 



158 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTV. 

Garrett L. Roof was also a prominent member of the Montgomery 
county bar, being at one time district attorney. He eventually ex- 
changed the legal for the clerical profession, in which he labored for 
many years with much success. He died at West Troy where he passed 
his last years in retirement. 

David Sacia was also numbered among the old members of the Mont- 
gomery county bar, and was a man of highly respectable ability. 

Samuel Belding, jr., was one of the earliest lawyers of Amsterdam, 
and was the first county judge under the constitution of 1846. He was 
partner with Clark B. Cochrane, and brother-in-law to Nicholas Hill. 

Solomon P. Heath was another prominent lawyer of the same place, 
and was elected member of the assembly in 1850, and also countyjudge 
in 1S71. 

Richard H. Cushney was born in the town of Johnstown (now Mo- 
hawk) in 1809, and was educated in the common schools, and the 
Cambridge and Johnstown Academies, after which he studied law with 
William I. Dodge, and was admitted to the bar in 1831. During his 
legal studies Mr. Cushney was deputy in the office of county clerk 
(George D. Ferguson) and remained in this service until 1837, when he 
removed to Fonda, holding the same office in the new county seat. 

Judge Cushney began law practice in 1831, and continues in profes- 
sional service, being the oldest lawyer in Montgomery county, and one 
of the oldest in the Mohawk valley. He has been a Democrat since 
attaining his majoritj', and held a number of public offices. He was 
appointed surrogate July 17, 1838, holding until April i, 1843, and in 
November, 1859, he was elected county judge, and served with 
acknowledged ability. He also assisted in founding the Mohawk River 
Bank, and has always been its legal adviser, and for a long time has 
held the office of vice-president. 

The Present Bar. — In both personal character and professional ability 
the bench and bar of Montgomery county always held distinction, and 
did our space permit the subject would be entitled to more extended 
notice. Under such a limitation, however, our record will only include 
personal mention of the members of the present bar of the county ; in 
which determination we are supported by the profession in general, and 
its younger representatives in particular, who have yet to make their 



PRESENT BAR. 159 

life records, and who feel that extended mention belongs more appro- 
priately to the close of labor than to its beginning. 

In Montgomery county there is a great variety of business interests, 
and hence there is a fair prospect of success on the part of any energetic 
lawyer ; and while the legal business of a county ordinarily centers at 
its county^seat, in this county the seat of justice happens to be located 
in a comparatively small village, which offers but little inducement to a 
lawyer. Amsterdam, Canajoharie and Fort Plain are the leading places 
in the county, and as a result the greatest number of practicing attor- 
neys are there, and yet Fonda, Fultonville and St. Johnsville have their 
fair proportion of lawyers. 

Lawyers of Amsterdam — Howard I'utman, John F. Collins, \V. B. 
Dunlap, George S. Dievendorff, A. B. Flansburg, VV. Davidson Jones, 
John G. Maxwell, E. J. Maxwell, Charles S. Nesbitt, Richard Peck, 
L. H. Reynolds, Robert J. Sanson, Martin L. Stover, Lawrence A. 
Serviss, Walter L. Van Denbergh, L. S. Westbrook, Henry V. Borst, 

E. J. Perkins, John K. Warnick, George B. White, E. P. White, C. P. 
Winegar, Hicks B. Waldron, Harry Sherburn, Henry V. Burke, Archie 
R. Conover, J. Howard Hanson, Homer J. Sullivan, John W. Eighmy, 
Thomas F". C. Clary. 

Canajoharie — J. F. Hazleton, Harvey Dunkel, Brownell C. F"ox, 
Hiram L. Huston, Newton J. Herrick, D. S. Morrell, B. F. Spraker, 
David Spraker, Frazer Spraker, W. H. Van Steenbergh, John C. 
Wheeler, Charles W. Wheeler, William A. Williams. 

Fort Plain — James E. Dewey, H. M. Eldredge, Irving Moyer, Aionzo 
Lewis, George E. Phillips, Dewitt C. Shults, E. S. Van Deusen, L. M. 
Weller, J. L. Moore, John D. Wendell, John S. Yost. 

Fonda — Richard H. Cushney, Henry B. Cushney, J. S. Sitterly, 
Daniel Yost, S. W Putman. 

Fultonville — G. M. Albot, Frothingham Fish, R. Bronk Fish, Leonard 

F. Fish, Thomas R. Horton. 

St. Johnsville. — Frank B. Towman. 



160 HISTORY OF .\rO>^T(50.\IERT COUNTY. 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

THE MEDICAL PROFESSION IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

THE medical profession of Montgomery county has preserved but 
little of its history, and while there are a few meagre records by 
which we may learn the proceedings and membership of the medical 
societies that have been formed (one of them dating back to the early 
years of this century), there are no data upon which can be based a his- 
tory of the development of the profession. The great advance in all 
branches of art and science during the last century has indeed been 
marvelous, but in none has there been greater progress than in medicine 
and in surgery. 

This science which now does so much to ameliorate suffering, began 
with Hippocrates nearly twenty-three hundred years ago, and he first 
treated of medicine with the simplest remedies, relying chiefly on the 
healing powers of nature. He wrote extensively, and some of his works 
have been a foundation for the succeeding literature of the profession. 
The greatest advance in medical science, however, has been made dur- 
ing the last one hundred years, and chiefly during the last half century. 
Physiologists no longer believe (as did the practitioners of the sixteenth 
century), that the planets have a direct and controlling action on the 
body, or that the sun operates on the heart and the moon upon the 
brain ; nor do they now believe that the vital spirits are prepared in the 
brain by distillation. On the contrary, modern physiology teaches that 
the phenomena of the living body are the results of physical and chem- 
ical changes ; the temperature of the blood is now ascertained by the 
thermometer, and the different fluids and gases of the body are an- 
alyzed by the chemist, giving to each its own properties and functions. 

Botanists are now acquainted with 150,000 plants, of which a large 
proportion are constantly being added to the already appalling list oi 
new remedies. Many of the latter possess little if any virtue, yet by 
liberal advertising they hold a place in nearly everj' drug store. The 





f-^. 



DEVELOPMENT OF MEDICAL SCIENCE. 161 

ancients were not so well supplied with drugs, and hence they resorted 
to other methods. For instance, it is said that the Babylonians exposed 
their sick to the view of passers-by in order to learn of them whether 
they had been afflicted with a lil<e distemper, and by what remedies 
they had been cured. It was also a custom of those days for all per- 
sons who had been sick to put up (on their recovery) a tablet in the 
temple of Esculapius, whereon they gave an account of the remedies by 
which they had been restored. Prior to Hippocrates all medicines were 
administered by priests and were associated with numerous superstitions, 
such as charms, amulets and incantations; sympathetic ointments 
were applied to the weapon with which a wound had been made ; hu- 
man or horse flesh was used for the cure of epilepsy, and convulsions 
were treated with human brains. It may be added that the credulous 
superstition of early ages has not been fully eradicated, even by the ad- 
vanced education of the present day. One of the latest appeals to the 
credulity of the masses is the so-called " Christian Science," and also 
" Faith Cure," but so long as filth brings fever, prayer will be of no 
avail, and those who advocate such a method of cure are either self- 
deceived or are basely deceiving others. 

It is not our purpose, however, to treat of ancient or even modern 
medical history, and though a review of the progress in thissciencefrom 
the time of the Egyptian medical deities, or the Greek or Roman med- 
ical mythology, would be very interesting as well as instructive, it is 
not pertinent to the medical history of Montgomery county, and our 
introductory observations indeed are merely to suggest to the reader 
the difference between the ancient and modern means of healing. 

The settlement of the region now included in Montgomery county 
began soon after the year 1700, but progressed slowly during the first 
half century. The country was then an almost unbroken wilderness, 
except as occasional improvements had been made by the Germans in 
the Mohawk valley. At that time, and indeed at any time for a cen- 
tury afterward, the facilities for obtaining a medical education were very 
limited. The state of New York, unlike New England and Pennsylva- 
nia, had done very little to encourage science, and there were no schools 
of medicine worthy of the name nearer than Boston or Philadelphia. 
Few young men could then afford to go so far to qualify themselves for 
21 



162 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

a profession which ofi'ered but httle pecuniary inducement, hence the 
prevaihng custom was for the medical aspirant to enter the office of 
some neighboring physician and read for two or three years, at the 
same time accompanying his tutor in his professional visits and learn 
his methods of practice. At the end of the term the young doctor 
would seek some promising vacancy and begin practice. 

The legislation which then regulated the admission and practice of 
physicians was so defective as to be really worthless. In 1806, however, 
an act was passed repealing all former laws in reference to the profession 
and at the same time authorizing a general State Medical Society and 
also county societies. 

The Montgomery County Medical society, — In 1806 the legislature of 
New York passed an act for the incorporation of medical societies in 
each county of the state, in pursuance of which the Montgomery County 
Medical Society was organized on the first Tuesday in July of the same 
year. The meeting was held at the court house in Johnstown, at which 
time there were present Alexander Sheldon, Oliver Lathrop, Stephen 
Reynolds, Wm. H. Devoe, Wm. Reid, Benjamin Tucker, Horace Bar- 
num and Abraham Sternbergh. The officers then chosen were Alex- 
ander Sheldon, president ; Wm. Reid, vice-president ; Stephen Reynolds, 
secretary; Oliver Lathrop, treasurer; Alexander Sheldon, Stephen 
Reynolds, and Benjamin Tucker were appointed a committee to prepare 
by-laws for the government of the societ)', and their report was made 
on October 15 following. 

The first page of the records of the society contains a roll of its mem- 
bers under the caption of "Catalogue of Members of the Montgomery 
Medical Society," but as no date is given it is difficult to decide whether 
the names thus recorded were those of original members. They were 
as follows : Alexander Sheldon, Stephen Reynolds, Edmund G. Rawson, 
Elijah Cheadle, Daniel Curk, Wm. A. Reid, Oliver Lathrop, Jonathan 
Eights, Joshua Webster, Benjamin Tucker, Wm H. Devoe, Abraham 
Sternbergh, Horace Barnum, Jonas Farr, Thomas Conklin, Christian 
Stisser, Simeon Massey, Daniel Ayers, Benjamin Lyon, John Esmond, 
Ichabod Thompson, Richard Davis, jr., Thomas C. Kenton, Orvis John- 
son, Asa Rice, Frederick Garrett, John Atwater, Josiah T. Betts, Sam- 
uel Voorhees, Wm. Brown, John Holmes, Daniel C. Johnson, Elijah 



COUNTY MEDICAL SOCIETY. 163 

Hanchett, John Delamater, Samuel Maxwell, James VV. Miller, Leb- 
beus Doty, Moses Johnson. In explanation of this " catalogue " we 
may state that it is quite doubtful if all the physicians thus named were 
in the county in 1806; not that the county (which included Fulton) 
was not sufficiently large for such a number, but it is thought thatsome 
names may have been added at a later date. This list, however, will 
recall nearly all the early physicians of the county, some of whom are 
still remembered by the old residents. 

In 1838 the division of the county required a reorganization of the 
society, the first officers elected after that event being Daniel Avers, 
president; Zadoc Barney, vice-president; Abraham T. E. Hilton, sec- 
retary ; Morgan Snyder, treasurer. In 1840 the members of the society 
were as follows: Daniel Ayers, John Atwater, Zadoc Barney, Tlioni[)- 
son Burton, Henry H. Belding, James Dievendorf, Richard Davis, Leb- 

beus Doty, Graves, Abraham T. E. Hilton, Erastus Holmes, 

David E. Houghtaling, Wm. H. Johnson, Simeon Marcy, Ezra A. Mul- 
ford, John D. Mathews, Uriah Potter, Abraham Puling, John W. Riggs, 
Wm. Smith, Simeon Snow, Morgan Snyder, Jacob G. Snell, Joseph D. 
Stewart, Samuel Voorhees, Joshua Webster, Joseph White, Aaron W. 
Hall, John L. St. John, Abraham J. Arndt, George Beakley. John W. 
Sterling, Abel Lyons, Leonard Proctor, Charles Dievendorf, Alex. 
Ayers, Gilbert H. Brownell, Jeremiah Snell, Davis L, Carroll, W. E. 
Riess, I. I. Buckbee, W. H. Biggam, Jacob H. Dockstader. Henry H. 
Biggam. 

Present Members. — Douglas Ayers, E. F. Bronk, C. W. De Bann, 
W. H. De Lamater, J. R. Fairbanks, S. H. French, Ezra Graves, T. 
Hyland, R. G. Johnson, C. M. Klock, H. M. Leach, S. D. Lewis, D. M. 
McMartin, W. J. Peddie, H. W. Post, W. R. Pierce, W. H. Robb, E. E. 
Rulison, F. E. Simons, A. V. H. Smythe, Charles Stover, P. L. Suits, 
D. M. Taylor, C. F. Timmerman, C. C. Vedder, S. A. Wessels, H. L. 
Furbeck, G. G. Lewis, Augusta A. Steadman, E. T. Rulison, John W. 
Kniskern. 

Presidents of the Societj'. — Alexander Sheldon, 1806; Wm. H. Reid 
1807; Jonathan Eights, 1808; Stephen Reynolds, 1809-11; Joshua 
Webster, 1812 ; Alex. Sheldon, 1813; Daniel Curk, 1814; Elijah 
Cheadle, 1815; Edmund G. Ravvson, 1816; Alex. Sheldon, 1817; 



164 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Stephen Reynolds, 1818; Samuel Maxwell, 18 19; Daniel Ayers, 1820; 
Joshua Webster, 1821-2; Lemuel C. Paine, 1823; James W. Miller, 
1824; John Atwater, 1825-6; Oran Johnson, 1827; Lebbeus Doty, 
1S28; Abraham Puling, 1829; Wm. Carlisle, 1830; Wm. Chalmers, 1831 ; 
Lemuel C. Paine, 1832-3; Daniel Ayers, 1834; Wm. G. Comstock, 
1835; Morgan Snyder, 1836; James W.Miller, 1837; Daniel Ayers, 
1838; Simeon Snow, 1839; Joseph White, 1840; John D. Mathews, 
1841 ; James Dievendorf, 1842; Uriah Potter, 1843; Joseph White, 
1844; J. D. Mathews, 1845 ! Davis L. Carroll, 1846; Henry H. Bel- 
ding, 1847; Simeon Snow, 1848; Jacob Myers, 1849; Thompson 
Burton, 1850; Jacob G. Snell, 1851; E. B. Etherge, 1852; Uriah 
Potter, 1853-4; D. L. Carroll, 1855; Alex. Ayers, 1856; no record 
1857; John Parr, 1858; no record 1859; J. Burdick, i860; no record 
1861 ; Norman L. Snow, 1862; no record 1863; I. L Buckbee, 1864; 
J. H. Stafford, 1865; Darwin Potter, 1866; D. Ayers, 1867; Jeremiah 
Snell, 1868; Wm. Robb, 1869; J. Snell, 1870; Frank G. Buckbee, 
1871 : J. G. Snell, 1872; W. H. Biggam, 1873 ; Morgan Snyder, 1874; 
W.N.Curtis, 1875; Alex. Ayers, 1876; Dr. Scoon, 1877; C. A. 
Dievendorf, 1878 ; D. M. Taylor, 1879; C. C. Vedder, 18S0; Morgan 
Snyder, 1881 ; S. H. French, 1882; James A. Smeallie, 1883 ; Wm. H. 
Biggam, jr., 1884; Alonzo Putman, 1885; Timmerman Wessels, 1886; 
D. M. McMartin, 1887; C. M. Klock, 1888; E. T. Rulison, 1889; 
Charles Stover, 1890; H. M. Leach, 1891. 

Present Officers. — H. M. Leach, president; S. D. Lewis, vice-presi- 
dent ; C. W. De Baun, secretary and treasurer. 

Under an act of the legislature passed in 1880, each physician in the 
county (and in each county in the state) was required to register in the 
office of the county clerk his name, place of birth, residence, date of 
diploma, and the institution from which he was graduated, and the au- 
thority by which he_ claimed the right to practice medicine in the county. 
In compliance with the requirements of the act there has been a very 
general registration by the physicians of this county, and in order to 
bring to the attenion of the reader the names of as many as possible of 
the past and present practitioners, we extract from the records the 
names, with other data referred to, of those legally qualified to practice 
medicine in Montgomery county since the above law was passed : 




SdJL£<^ ^c9, ySuLc^iiJs^--^^.^ 



REGISTER OF PHYSICIANS. 165 

Horatio Gilbert, Canajoharie; born in Epliratali ; diploma December 
24, 1867, from Albany Medical College. 

J. J. Miller, Charleston ; born in Lansing, Tompkins count)-; diploma 
December 26, 1871, from Albany Medical College. 

Charles I. Conover, Charleston Four Corners ; born in Glen ; diplo- 
ma February 3, 187S, from Alban\' Medical College. 

Peter L. Suits, Tribes Hill ; born in Palatine ; diploma February 4, 
1879, from Albany Medical College. 

J. A. Smeallie, Canajoharie ; born in Princetown, Schenectady 
county; diploma F"ebruary 14, 1879, from Albany Medical College. 

William W. D. Parsons, Fultonville ; born in Newark, N. J. ; di- 
ploma March 22, 1852, from New York Medical College. 

Frank G. Buckbee, Fonda ; born in Saratoga county ; diploma De- 
cember 26, 1 87 1, from Albany Medical College. 

Horace M. Leach, Glen ; born Morristown, St. Lawrence county ; 
diploma February 28, 1876, from the Hospital College of Medicine, 
Louisville, Ky. 

William H. Biggam, Charleston ; born in Charleston ; diploma Feb- 
ruary 25, 1841, from Albany Medical College. 

Elbert T. Rulison, Amsterdam; born in Parish, Oswego county; 
diploma December 23, 1875, from Albany Medical College. 

Silas A. Wessels, Canajoharie ; born in Cherry Valley ; diploma 
March, 1878, from University of Michigan. 

Dallas M. Taylor, Canajoharie ; born in Springfield, Otsego county ; 
diploma June 25, 1874, from Long Island College Hospital. 

Erastus Holmes, Tribes Hill ; born in Kingston, Mass. ; diploma 
January 21, 1837, from Fairfield College, New York. 

Oscar Joab Stafford, Canajoharie ; born in Canajoharie ; diploma 
February 26, 1878, from the University of Buffalo. 

Jerome Shibley, Charleston ; born in Charleston ; diploma Novem- 
ber 26, 1846, from the Castleton Medical College, Vt. 

John Parr, Buel ; born in Ireland; diploma March 1, 1859, from the 
medical department of the University of New York city. 

William E. Keegan, Amsterdam ; born in Albany ; diploma March 
3, 1880, from the Albany Medical College. 

Charles Morris Klock, St. JohnsvilJe ; born in St. Johnsville ; diplo- 
ma February 15, 1876, from the University of the City of New York. 



166 HISTORY OF MOXTaOMERY COUNTT. 

Alexander Ayres, Fort Plain ; born in Oppenlieim ; diploma June 9, 
1846, from Castleton Medical College, Vt. 

Israel I. Buckbee, born in Clinton, Dutchess county ; diploma Feb- 
ruary 7, 1841, from Albany Medical College. 

John Sloat Beakley, born in Palatine Bridge ; diploma March i, 
1868, from the New York Homeopathic Medical College. 

Ambrose J. Eisenlord, Fort Plain ; born in Minden ; diploma July 
10, 1871, from the University of the City of New York. 

Frank Edgar Simons, Canajoharie ; born in Phoenix, Oswego county; 
diploma January 29, 1879, from Albany Medical College. 

Francis Oliver Cornell, Port Jackson ; born in Glenville, Schenectady 
county; diploma March 3, 1880, from Albany Medical College. 

Christian C. Vedder, St. Johnsville ; born in St. Johnsville ; diploma 
January 20, 1874, from Albany Medical College. 

Salphronius H. French, Amsterdam ; born in Lisle, Broome county ; 
diploma December 11, 1859, from Albany Medical College. 

Sylvester D. Lewis, Amsterdam ; born in Ontario county ; diploma 
December 24, 1866, from Albany Medical College. 

James Kilbour Young, Rural Grove ; born in Berne, Albany county ; 
diploma December 22, 1874, from Albany Medical College. 

William H. Robb, Amsterdam; born in Florida; diploma December, 
1865, from Albany Medical College. 

Joseph N. White, Amsterdam; born in Deerfield, Oneida county; 
diploma March i, 1854, from Ohio Medical College. 

John V. Riggs, Amsterdam; born in Schenectady; licensed Sep- 
tember 21, 18S0, by the Homeopathic Medical Society of Montgomery 
county. 

Oscar Arthur EUithorp, Palatine Bridge; born in Palatine; diploma 
March i, 1880, from Albany Medical College. 

Darwin Potter, Fort Plain ; born in Minden ; diploma January 24, 
i860, from Geneva Medical College. 

George P. Mallette, Sprout Brook ; born in Canajoharie ; diploma 
August II, 1874, from the Eclectic Medical Society of Twenty-third 
Senate District of New York. 

Morgan Snyder, Fort Plain ; born in Marbletown, Ulster county ; 
diploma April 3, 1833, from Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. 



REGISTER OF IHYSICIAXS. 167 

Douglas Ayres, Fort Plain ; born in East Creek ; diploma January 
7, 1S65, from Albany Medical College. 

Philip D. Palmer, Charleston ; born in Charleston ; diploma Novem- 
ber 23, 1S57, from Castleton Medical College, Vt. 

Thomas J. Pettit, Fort Plain ; born in town of Saratoga ; diploma 
March, 1S67, from New York Homeopathic College. 

William ZoUer, Fort Plain ; born in Ogdensburg ; diploma March 
II, 1S73, by the Hahnemann Medical College, Philadelphia. 

James R. Fairbanks, Amsterdam ; born in Pittsfield, Mass. ; diploma 
October 16, 1866, from Berkshire Medical College. 

Louis Von St. George, Canajoharie ; born in Weilburg, Germany ; 
diploma granted 1851 by the University of Geissen. 

Charles Stover, Amsterdam ; born in Cobleskill ; diploma March 15, 
1S80, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. 

Arthur V, H. Smith, Minaville ; born in Swansea, Wales ; diploma 
December 28, 1875, Albany Medical College. 

Thompson Burton, Fultonville; born in Charleston; diploma June 
17. 18351 Castleton Medical College, Vt. 

Dan Small, St. Johsville ; born in Mohawk, Herki-.ner county; diplo- 
ma March, 1 860, from Albany Medical College. 

James D. Sn}-der, Sharon; born in Sharon, Schoharie county; 
licensed August 10, 1874, by Eclectic Medical Society, Twent\--third 
Senatorial District of New York. 

Alonzo Putman, Amsterdam ; born in Glen ; diploma September, 
185 I, from College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York city. 

Joseph Burbeck, Canajoharie ; born in Campton, N. H. ; diploma 
January, 182S, from College of Medicine and Surgery, Fairfield, N. Y. 

Daniel H. Patchen, Canajoharie ; born in Westfield, Chautauqua 
county; diploma February, 1879, from Hahnemann Medical College, 
Chicago, 111. 

Ezra Graves, Amsterdam ; born in Russia, Herkimer county : diplo- 
ma February, 1865, from Buffalo Medical College. 

Daniel M. McMartin, Amsterdam ; born in Amsterdam ; diploma 
March i, 1877, from College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York 
city. 

Horace S. Streeter, Palatine; born in Canajoharie; diploma 1861, 
Winchester Medical College, state of Virginia, and certificate from 



163 HISTORY OF MOXTGO.MERY COUNTY. 

Medical Examining Board, United States Army, dated August 20, 
1864. 

Aimer A. Lyker, Rural Grove ; born in Root ; diploma February 3, 
1878, Albany Medical College. 

Charles Nellis, Palatine; born in Palatine; diploma March 10, 1881, 
from Bellevue Hospital Medical College. 

Peter O. Eisenlord, Palatine ; born in Palatine ; diploma July, 1847, 
from the Medical University of the City of New York. 

William H. Biggam, Charleston ; born in Charleston ; diploma May 
13, 1881, from College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York city. 

Newton F. Sweatman, Fultonville ; born in Sharon ; diploma De- 
cember, 21, 1872, Albany Medical College. 

George H. Ingraham, Amsterdam; born in New York city ; diploma 
January 27, 1874, from the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati, O. 

Franklin D. Clum, Amsterdam ; born in Saugerties, N. Y. ; diploma 
February 1875, from Yale College. 

Eleazer E. Rulison, Amsterdam ; born in Parish, Oswego county ; 
diploma March 3, 1881, Albany Medical College. 

Leonard A. Frazier, Amsterdam ; born in Slingerland ; diploma 
March 3, 1881, Albany Medical College. 

John Vedder Riggs, Amsterdam ; born in Schenectadj' ; diploma 
February 22, 1881, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Buffalo. 

Willard Gillett, St. Johnsville ; born in Cherry Valley ; diploma 
March, 1882, Albany Medical College. 

William James Peddie, Fultonville ; born in Broadalbin ; diploma 
March i, 1882, Albany Medical College. 

Willard Hillegas, Hageman's Mills ; born in St. Johnsville ; diploma 
March 3, 1881, Albany Medical College. 

Melancton Somers, Flat Creek ; born in Seward, Schoharie county ; 
diploma March 8, 1882, from United States Medical College. 

Andrew P. Smith, Auries ; born in Starksville, Herkimer county; 
licensed November 15, 1853, from Herkimer County Medical Society. 

John Lewis Christian Rinke, Hageman's Mills ; born in Vonaka, 
Germany ; diploma from the Charity Hospital in Berlin, Prussia. 

P. H. Dygert, Fort Plain ; born in Morristown, N. Y. ; diploma 
April, 1870, from the University of Philadelphia. 



REGISTER OF PHYSICIANS. 169 

J. M. Winslow, Amsterdam ; born in Bennington, Vt. ; diploma Feb- 
ruary, 1873, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York city. 
R. G. Johnson, Amsterdam; born in Minaville; diploma April 13, 

1883, University of Pennsylvania. 

A.D.Hill, Akin; born in Randolph, N. Y. ; diploma February, 
1879, from Albany Medical College. 

William G. Smeallie, Canajoharie ; born in Charlton, Saratoga county ; 
diploma September, 1883, University of Denver and Seminary of Col- 
orado. 

Jay D. Van Wirt, Canajoharie; born in Ancram, Columbia count}'; 
diploma March, 1873, from Albany Medical College. 

William Rowland, Maple Valley; born in Pawling, Dutchess count)-; 
licensed October 8, 1874, by the Eclectic Medical Society of the 
Twenty-third District. 

Frank V. Brownell, Fort Plain ; born in Schenectady ; diploma 
March, 1882, Albany Medical College. 

E. A. Akin, Buffalo ; born in Gallipolis, O. ; diploma March 2, 1869, 
from Miami Medical College. 

Fred E. Easton, Fort Plain; born in Ciderville ; diploma May 21, 

1884, from Long Island College Hospital. 

Charles F. Timmerman, Amsterdam ; born in Fonda ; diploma 
March, 1884, from Albany Medical College. 

David Nelson Taylor, Amsterdam ; born in Albany; diploma May 
21, 1884, from Long Island College Hospital. 

Franklin B. Smith ; born in Hillsdale, Mich. ; diploma Februar)-, 
1879, from Hahnemann Medical College, Chicago. 

J. Leslie Smith, Fort Plain ; born in Canajoharie ; diploma March 9, 
1883, Albany Medical College. 

James Alfred Barringer ; born in Schodack, Rennselaer county; di- 
ploma February 25, 1873, from the University of Buffalo. 

Edmund F. Bronk, Amsterdam ; born in New Baltimore, Greene 
county; diploma March 3, 1884, Albany Medical College. 

A. V. Klock, St. Johnsville, ; born in Glen; diploma March 3, 1886, 
Albany Medical College. 

William M. White, Amsterdam ; born in Amsterdam ; diploma March 
3, 1886, Albany Medical College. 



irO HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Edward M. Child, Fort Plain ; born in Woodstock, Conn. ; diploma 
March lO, 1877, University of the City of New York. 

A. P. Casler, St. Johns\ ille ; born in Minden ; diploma March 3, 
iSSo, Albany Medical College. 

Cornelius Wells De Baun, Fonda ; born in Niskayuna ; diploma 
March 16, 1887, Albany Medical College. 

J. Francis Moorehead ; born in New York city : diploma March, 
1883, University of the City of New York. 

John P. Henry; born in Ireland; diploma March 6, 18S6, Univer- 
sity of the Citj- of New York. 

Henry C. Young; born in Sing Sing; diploma March 16, 1S87, Al- 
bany Medical College. 

Austin S. Moak; born in Sharon; diploma June 9, 1S76, Bellevue 
College Hospital, New York city. 

R. M. Andrews, Fort Hunter; born in Guilderland ; diploma 18S8. 
Albany Medical College. 

0. F. McAvenue, Amsterdam; born in Little Falls; diploma March 
1 6, 1887, Albany Medical College. n 

W. H. Lemrou, Amsterdam; born in Albany; diploma March 3, 
1886, Albany Medical College. 

1. Davis Ozmun, Canajoharie ; born in South Lansing, N. Y. ; diplo- 
ma June, 1 888. Syracuse Medical College. 

John Charles Jackson, Fort Plain ; born in Marcellus ; diploma 
1 888, from New York HomcEopathic Medical College. 

Adelbert W. Witter. Fort Hunter; born in Albany county ; diploma 
March 15, 1S88, Albany Medical College. 

Alonzo Barton Foster, Fonda ; born in Waterford, Ontario ; diploma 
April 12, 1888. New York Homoeopathic College and Hospital, and 
April 12, 18S7, from Trinity L^niversity, Toronto, Canada. 

G. L. Myer, Stone Arabia; diploma June 20, 1877, University of 
Michican. 

Alonzo Galloway, born in New York city ; diploma March 20, 1S81, 
from Buffalo Medical College. 

A. Marshall Burt, Nelliston ; born Beacon Hill, Saratoga count\- ; 
diploma March 21, 1889, Albany Medical College. 

H. E. Shumway, St. Johnsville ; born in Copenhagen, N. Y. ; diploma 
IVIarch 12, 1889, University City of New York. 



REGISTER OF PHYSICIANS. 171 

Benjamin F. French; born in Tro\% O. ; diploma September 23, 1889, 
Hahnemann College, Philadelphia. 

A. Walter Tryon, born in Durham, Greene county; diploma, 1862, 
College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York. 

I. N. Wiilard, born in Fairfield, N. Y. ; diploma November 18, 1875, 
Bellevue Hospital Medical College. 

B Rush Jackson, Amsterdam ; born in Berwick, Pa. ; diploma, Oc- 
tober, 15, 18S4, from Philadelphia Electro Therapeuticis. 

Charles Williams Nichols, Amsterdam ; born in Fairfield, N. Y. ; 
diploma March 21, 1889, Albany Medical College. 

Henry W. Post, Fultonville ; born in Brattleboro, Vt. ; diploma June 
5, 1886, from University of Vermont. 

William H. De Lamater, Minaville ; born in Mariaville ; diploma 
March 3, 1886, Albany Medical College. 

Henry L. Furbeck, St. Johnsville ; born in Fonda ; diploma March 

4, 1 88 1, Albany Medical College. 

Louis Akin, Akin ; born in Brooklyn ; diploma June i i, 1890, Col- 
lege of Physicians and Surgeons of New York. 

Clark E. Congdon, Fort Plain ; born in Venice, N. Y. ; diploma 
March, 1890, Long Island College Hospital. 

John Logan, born in Ireland ; diploma March 14, 1883, from Bellevue 
Hospital Medical College. 

Horace M. Hicks, Amsterdam ; born in Delta, N. Y. ; diploma Feb- 
ruary, 1886, Chicago Homoeopathic Medical College. 

William R. Pierce, Amsterdam ; born in Amsterdam ; diploma May 

5, 1884, from the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. 

Abram Baker Simmons, Amsterdam ; born in Cohoes ; diploma 
April I, 1891, Albany Medical College. 

Hamilton A.White, Fort Plain; born in Richmondville ; diploma 
March 3, 1891, Albany Medical College. 

George G. Lewis, Amsterdam ; born in Avoca, N. Y. ; diploma 
March, 1890, Albany Medical College. 

John H. Shaper, Canajoharie ; born in Canajoharie ; diploma June 
25, 1S91, from L^niversity of Michigan. 

Ward Beecher Saltsman, Fort Plain ; born in Palatine ; diploma 
April I, 1 89 1, Albany Medical College. 



172 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

John Charles O'Brien, Amsterdam ; born in Bellows Falls, Vt. ; di- 
ploma July 13, 1887, from the University of Vermont. 

Walter Adams Dunckel, Fort Plain ; born in Fort Plain ; diploma' 
June II, 1S90, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York. 

Augusta Alice Steadman, Amsterdam ; born in Nova Scotia ; diplo- 
ma May 31, 1831, from Woman's Medical College of New York In- 
firmary. 

John W. Kniskern, Amsterdam ; born in Carlisle, N. Y. ; diploma 
March 31, 1890, Albany Medical College. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

THE TOWN OF AMSTERDAM. 

IN 1772, soon after the creation of Tryon county, its vast and partially 
settled terrritory was divided into five provisional districts, the most 
easterly of which, called Mohawk, included the lands now in this town. 
In 1788 this district was divided and that portion north of the river was 
organized into a town and named Caughnawaga, after the ancient In- 
dian village now within the limits of Fonda. Still another division was 
made in 1793 (March 12), by which old Caughnawaga yielded its terri- 
tory to the formation of five new towns, Amsterdam, Johnstown, May- 
field, and Broadalbin, each of which was soon afterward fully organized, 
and then by an act passed April 8, 1838, Perth was created out of 
Amsterdam, leaving to the latter only 19,698 acres, whereas it previous- 
ly contained more than 30,000 acres and was the largest town in Mont- 
gomery county. 

Amsterdam is on the east border of the county, being bounded on 
the east by Saratoga county, by the Mohawk on the south, Perth on 
the north, and Mohawk on the west. Its lands are included within the 
fraudulently obtained Indian purchase that embraced 700,000 acres be- 
tween the Hudson and Mohawk rivers, and to which was given the 
name Kayaderosseras. This purchase from the Mohawks was made 



TOWN OF AMSTERDAM. 173 

for a trifling consideration in 1 703, and was afterward the occasion of a 
bitter controversy, which was only settled when Sir William Johnson, 
in 1768, interfered in behalf of the defrauded Indians whose lands were 
in part restored. The Kayaderosseras patent, granted November 2, 
1708, to Naning Hermanse, and twelve associates, by Queen Anne, was 
much less in extent than the original patent of the same name, but like 
it, covered lands in Amsterdam and Perth. The name is said to have 
been derived from the stream afterward called Johnson's creek, it hav- 
ing its course near Mount Johnson, but originally it was the Kayaderos- 
seras creek. 

Among the other patents now in the town we may mention that 
made to Henry Hoofe and called the Hoofe patent, dated December 
12, 1727, and including 539 acres bordering on the Mohawk. In April 
22, 1703, however, Geralders Camfort obtained a patent for the 
" Camfort tract," (twenty acres) in what is now Amsterdam, and this 
was probably the first patent in the county. The Chatsandackte patent 
was granted to Ebenezer Wilson and John Abeel (the latter the father 
of " Cornplanter ") on February 22, 1706, but it is quite certain that 
neither of these proprietors settled on the land at that time, for in 17 16, 
Philip Groat purchased from the Mohawks " all the land between the 
creeks, being the site now occupied by Cranesville." 

The principal street of the town is Chuctenunda, an Indian name 
signifying "twin sisters," having reference to this creek and that almost 
directly opposite, both being nearly of the same size and having the 
same name. Eva's Kill, or as more properly pronounced " E-vaws-Kil," 
derives its name from the sad death of Mrs. Eva Van Alstine, wife of 
pioneer Jacob Van Alstine, who lived in that vicinity. The unfortunate 
woman was opening a swing gate when she was surprised, slain, and 
scalped by a party of Indians who were lurking in the vicinity. Her 
child was spared but was taken by the savages to Canada and there held 
for several years. This tragic event took place early in the French 
war and the stream was thenceforth called Eva's Kill, east of which lay 
the Wilson and Abeel tract. 

The earliest settlers were Germans, the first of whom appears to have 
been Philip Groat and family. In 1716 he purchased a tract near 
Cranesville, but he was unfortunately drowned while moving there on 



174 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUSTV. 

the ice during the following winter. His widow, however, and three 
sons, Simon, Jacob, and Lewis, with their servants, made the settle- 
ment and this was the first permanent improvement in the town. In 
1730 the brothers built a grist-mill, which was the first on the north side 
of the river, and these enterprising millers furnished flour from their 
primitive mill to the settlers in the entire region, even to the distance 
of fifty miles. The first bolting cloth was put in the mill in 1772, by 
James Burns. Lewis Groat was made a prisoner by the Indians in 
1775, and taken to Canada where he was held for years. 

In 1742 William Johnson, then a land agent and merchant, doing 
business at Fort Hunter, purchased a tract on the north side of the 
river, both east- and west of the Kayaderosseras, with the intention (as 
asserted by himself) "of securing a water-power on which he proposed 
to erect a saw- mill that would be certain to yield a profit of fully forty 
pounds per annum." This purchase amounted to several hundred acres, 
and the saw- mill was at once erected, followed in 1744 by a grist-mill, 
and about the same time by the substantial stone mansion to which was 
given the name Mount Johnson, but now known as Fort Johnson. The 
ambitious young merchant also established a store near his new house, 
and continued his former business with these later additions. This store, 
which was also of stone, was demolished after the revolution, and a 
wooden structure (also intended for trade) was built on the east side of 
the creek. In 1763, the former land agent, merchant and superintend- 
ent of Indian aflairs, having accumulated a fortune, and still better, a 
position of eminent distinction in public life, removed from the Fort to 
Johnson Hall, an elegant mansion built by him at Johnstown. Thence- 
forth and until Sir William's death, his son, Sir John, occupied Fort 
Johnson, which he inherited by the baronet's will. When Sir William 
died, in 1774, his son left the Fort and took up his abode at the Hall. 
Why Johnson called his first residence Mount Johnson has been a sub- 
ject of considerable speculation, for it was erected on the low lands bor- 
dering the river, while the hills were some distance to the north. Ten 
years after its erection, when the life of the superintendent of Indian 
affairs was threatened by hostile savages, he fortified the mansion, from 
which it naturally took the name of Fort Johnson. This was an im- 
portant station during the wars with the French and Canada Indians,, 



TOWN OF AMSTERDAM. 175 

and at the Fort were held frequent councils with the chiefs of the Six 
Nations. Here also were planned important expeditions, which being 
successfully executed contributed to the early fame of the distinguished 
owner. The Fort Johnson estate is now owned by Ethan Akin. 

In 1766 Sir William erected two commodious stone dwellings for his 
sons-in-law, Colonel Guy Johnson and Colonel Daniel Claus, both with- 
in the limits of this town. The first, known as Guy Park, is within the 
city limits of Amsterdam, and a comparatively recent owner added two 
large wings to the original building. It should be mentioned, however, 
that the first building erected on this site was a wooden structure, which 
was burned by lightning and then replaced by the present mansion. 
At the outbreak of the revolution Guy Park was fortified by its owner, 
who also drew about him a considerable force of tories and Indians, but 
in 1775, headed by Colonel Guy, they all departed for Canada and never 
again returned except as midnight assassins seeking to wreak vengeance 
on the defenceless settlements. 

The residence of Colonel Claus was situated near Fort Johnson, but 
unlike the other mansions it had no historic name. Each of these places 
was occupied during the revolution, after the flight of their owners by 
patriotic families ; Fort Johnson by Albert Veeder, Guy Park by Henry 
Kennedy, and the Claus residence by Colonel John Harper. It was 
destroyed by accidental fire during the war. It may be well to add 
that each of these gifts by the baronet to his children was accompanied 
by a square mile of land, but this as well as his entire estate was con- 
fiscated and sold. 

Although the region included within Amsterdam was usually well 
protected, pioneer settlement seems to have progressed very slow ; but 
this may have been due in part to the land troubles which then excited 
so much dispute. Among the small number of names which^may be 
mentioned, Peter Van Wormer is prominent as the first settler in the 
valley, locating on lot three of the Kayaderosseras track. Cornelius 
Dodds, a survivor of the revolution, settled here in 1793. George 
Shuler was also a pioneer, coming here during or even before the war. 
Victor Putnam came earlier than the revolution, and is remembered as 
having been appointed to watch for a hostile invasion of the region and 
to warn the Fort Hunter people of the approach of the enemy. James 



176 HISTORV OF MON^TaOMERV COCNTT. 

Allen settled here in 1792, and Isaac and Samuel Jones in 1794. In 
this year and very soon afterward a number of families located in the 
eastern part of the town, among who can be recalled the names of Ellis, 
Robinson, Glass, Olmsted, Allen, John Jones. Joseph Baldwin. Samuel 
B. Jones, and others whose names are lost, all of whom were worthy 
and industrious pioneers who laid the foundation for the later prosperity 
of the town. In the same connection we may mention the name of 
Joseph Hagaman, whose settlement at the place now called Hagaman's 
Mills, was made in 1777. He was the pioneer of the north part of the 
town, and his farm included 400 acres. The village, which is now of 
much importance, was named in honor of its founder. 

The pioneer of the prosperous city of Amsterdam was Albert Veeder, 
who came during the revolutionary war and built a saw- mill and grist- 
mill, and the place soon became known as Veeder's Mills, and later 
(with an increased population) as Veedersburg. Other earlj' settlers in 
this locality were Nicholas Wilcox, E. E. De Grafi', and William Kline, 
who, with others of later settlement, laid the foundation of the subse- 
quent village and city. Veedersburg was dropped in 1804 and the 
place was called Amsterdam ; but this change was not accomplished 
without effort, for the originial name had warm advocates in the town 
meeting where tlie question was decided. The vote indeed resulted in 
a tie, and then the chairman (James Allen) cast the decisive ballot in 
favor of Amsterdam. 

In 1794 the town contained 236 freeholders, but at that time, as has 
been mentioned, it included Perth. From the first assessment roll we 
copy the names of some of the largest tax payers, from which we may 
also infer that they were also the most influential men : Albert H. Vee- 
der, Jeremiah Schujler (probably means Shuler), Daniel Miles, William 
Kline, Nicholas Bradt, Christopher Peek, Cyrus Ladd, Jeremiah De 
Graft', Ahasuerus Marcellus, Frederick De Graff", Henry and Lewis 
Thomas, John L. Groat, Peter Van Wormer, Myndert Wemple, Henry 
Pauling, John Wiser, James Hagaman, Edward White, Ezra Thayer, 
John Baker, James Allen (on the record spelled AUin), Philip Lansing. 

Amsterdam, as has been stated, was formed into a town March 12, 
1793, but it was not until the first Tuesday in February, 1794, that a 
town meeting was held, the house of Isaac Veeder having been desig- 



TOWX OF A.\rSTERDAM. 



nated for that purpose. The officers then elected were as follows : Su- 
pervisor, Daniel Miles ; town clerk, John P. Allen ; assessors, James 
Allen, Joseph Hagaman, Emanuel De Grafif; overseers of the poor, 
James Allen, Emanuel De Graff; commissioners of highways, James 
Allen, Henry Kennedy, Emanuel De Graff; constables, Nicholas Ha- 
gaman, Adam Nave : fence viewers, Albert H. Veeder, Myndert VVem- 
ple, James Allen ; pound master, John Groat; overseers of highways, 
William Smith, Ezra Stevens, Nathaniel Smith, Henry Deal, Ira Ben- 
edict, Henry Thomas, Philetus Glass, Nicholas Hagaman, Thomas Stark- 
weather, John Ladd. Zachariah Baker, Jonathan Sheldon, Myndeit A. 
Wemple, Jacob Burton. 

Succession of Supervi.'iors. — Daniel Mile, 1794-95 ; Henry Pawling, 
1796-98; James Allen, 1799-1808; John H. Lansing, 1809; Thomas 
Tullock, 1810-11; John P. Allen, 1812 ; Benedict Arnold, 1813-16; 
William Robb, 1817-19; Samuel Lefferts, 1820-21; William Reid, 
1822-24; William Robb, 1825-26; Thomas Allen, 1S27-28; Eman- 
uel E. De Graft' 1829; Mathias J. Bovee, 1830-34; Benedict Arnold, 
1835-36; John Sanford, 1837; John Freemycr, 1838; John Sanford, 
1839-40; Israel Jackson, 1841-43; Jeremiah Groat, 1844; Samuel 
Belding, jr., 1845-47; George Warnick, 1848-49; John Stewart, 1850- 
51; Abram Young, 1852; Isaac Jackson, 1853; George S. Rowell, 
1S54; John McDonnell, 1855-58; Adam W.Kline, 1859-60; John 
McDonnell, 1861-63; Abram V. Morris, 1S64; Isaac Jackson, 1S65 ; 
David B. Hagaman, 1866-67; Alexander' Scott, 1868-74: John K. 
Potter, 1875-76; John Carmichael, 1877-79; John T. De Graff, i88c- 
81 ; Horace B Shepard, 1S82-83 ; John Hand, 1884; Edward H. Fin- 
layson, 1885; John T. De Graff, April 28, 18S5 and 18S6; Stephen 
Collins, 1S87; John S. Sweet, 1888; William H. Pepper, 1889-90; 
William Clark, 1891-92. 

Town Clerks. — John P. Allen, 1794-97 ; Henry Pawling, 1798 ; Will- 
iam Davis, 1799-1804; John P. Davis, 1805 ; Harmanus A. Veeder, 
1S06; John P. Davis, 1807-08; David W. Candce, 1809-11 ; James 
Downs, 18 1 2-1 3; Luther Stiles, 1814; James Downs, 1815-16; 
Thomas Allen, 1817-26; Marquis Barnes, 1S27 ; Luther Stiles, 1828- 
29; Thomas Allen, 1830-33 ; James H. Young, 1834; Charles Stiles, 
1835-37 ; James B. Rice, 1838 ; James H. Young, 1839; Albert Borsc, 



23 



178 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

1840-42; Thomas S. Fancher, 1843-44; Thomas Stewart, 1845-46; 
Daniel Miller, 1847—48; Thomas Davidson, 1849; Lawrence Shuler. 
1850; John McDonnell, 1851-52; Frederick T. B. Sammons, 1853; 
David Sanford, 1854; Freeman Paige, 1855-62; Richard N. Veeder, 
1863; Fredericks. McKinstray, 1864; Henry S. Persse, 1865 ; George 
S Young, 1866; David Chalmers, 1867-68; George O. Warring, 1869; 
Philo Powell, 1870; Philip Pruyn, i?,ji-y2;T. H. Benton Crane, 1873- 
75 ; John Cavanaugh, 1876; Henry Elislicher, 1877; B. W. Sammonsi 
1878 ; Edward H. Finlayson, 1879-80 ; Charles S. Nesbit, 1881 ; George 
Spalt, 1882; Harvey Chalmers, 1883; Nelson E. Van Deveer, 1884; 
I. B. Robertson, 1885 ; Francis L. Hagaman, April, 1885-1886; Jo- 
seph L Wilson, 1887; Edward C. Fowler, 1888-89; Francis L. Haga- 
man, 1890; Robert B. Davis, 1891-92. 

Present Town Officers. — Supervisor, William Clark ; town clerk, 
Robert B. Davis; justices of the peace, Thomas Ireland, C. Truax, 
Benjamin Herrick, Robert Stairs ; collector Levi Keller; auditor, Ste- 
phen T. Wilde; assessors, John M. Merrihew, Thomas Romeyn, Henry 
C. Miller ; commissioners of highways, Obadiah Wilde, Welsh Rey- 
nolds, Nicholas Bradt ; commissioners of excise, Garrett De Graff, Ar- 
thur L. Lawton, A. Dixon; overseers of the poor, John M. Phillips. 
Supervisor De Graff elected in April, on reorganization, after the city 
charter was granted. 

VILLAGES AND HAMLETS. 

Cranesville, situated on the north bank of the Mohawk about three 
miles east of Amsterdam city, is one of the oldest settlements in the 
town, for here in 17 16 Philip Groat purchased a tract from the Indians, 
for the purpose of making a settlement, but as has been stated he lost 
his life accidentally and the settlement was made by his family. In 
1730 the Groat brothers, sons of Philip, built a grist-mill and made 
flour and meal for the settlers in the region at that time, but during the 
French wars this then remote locality was subject to hostile invasion 
and hence its settlement was attended with many dangers. In 1755 
Lewis Groat was taken prisoner by the Indians, and was not liberated 
until he had suffered four years' captivity. The vicinity of Cranesville 
also was the home of the first church ever organized in the town, but 



TOWN OF AMSTERDAM. 179- 

the more exact locality is that known as Manny's Corners, about two 
miles north of the village. 

The Reformed Dutch church was organized in 1792, its consistory at 
that time being composed of Michael Spore, Tunis Stuart, Jeremiah 
De Graff and Ahasuerus Marcellus, but through lack of perfect organ- 
ization the society soon afterward became extinct, and not until 1795 
was an effort made for its reorganization. The Dutch Reformed church 
of Amsterdam was formed the same year out of the remnant of the 
still older society. Jeremiah Voorbees and Cornelius Van Vranklin 
were elected its elders, but the society was so weak that no pastor could 
be sustained and hence only occasional services were held. No regular 
house of worship was built earlier than 1800, all previous meetings be- 
ing held in dwellings and in groves. In that year the first meeting- 
house at Manny's Corners was built, but the location caused dissatisfac- 
tion among the members living at Veedersburg, and they withdrew and. 
formed the Dutch Reformed church of Veedersburg. In 18 12 the so- 
cieties again united and formed the Presbyterian church of Amsterdam, 
severing their former ecclesiastical relation and becoming Presbyterian. 
On March 3, 1832, one hundred and four members withdrew from the 
Manny's Corners church and organized the Presbyterian church of Am- 
sterdam. This withdrawal greatly reduced the mother church, but it 
struggled hard to maintain an existence, and the next -v'ear Charles 
Jenks became its pastor. In 1835 the church edifice at Hagaman's 
Mills was built in connection with the old society, and thenceforth for 
fourteen years services were held alternately in the two houses, which 
were called the north and south churches. In 1850, however, another 
separation took place by which sixty-eight members of the old society 
joined with the new. However, the south church at Manny's Corners 
for many years afterward maintained a gradually declining existence, 
but it was finally extinguished by the destruction of the old edifice 
about eight years ago. 

The Reformed Church of Cranesville was organized June 24, 1871, 
having an original membership of eleven. Its first elders were H P. 
P. Chute and H. J. Swart, with George A. Brewster and George Combs 
deacons. The church edifice was erected in 1870 and 1 871, and cost 
about $4,000. The present members number about forty. 



180 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

However prominent Cranesville may have been during the early his- 
tory of the town, it has hardly kept even pace with other hamlets of the 
town, and its business interests at the present time are therefore very 
limited. The postmaster is Cornelius Feltis, who also is proprietor of a 
large general store. The Riverside House is (he only hotel of the vil- 
lage, and is conducted by Philip De Forest. Squire Truax is the jus- 
tice of the peace, and Jerome Smith constable. 

Hagaman's Mills. — This pretty village, situated in the northeast part 
of the town, on the Chuctenunda, was named in honor of its founder, 
Joseph Hagaman, who settled here in 1777, and soon afterward erected a 
saw-mill and also a grist-mill. It is said that at the " raising" of the 
mill the question of naming the town was discussed, and the assembled 
inhabitants agreed upon Amsterdam. We have no record to show pre- 
cisely when this " raising " took place, but it was probably about the 
time of the division of old Caughnawaga (1793). Like many of the vil- 
lages in this region, Hagaman's Mills made its most interesting history 
during its earlier days, and yet the later population has been highly suc- 
cessful, for the place now has two extensive industries (the Anchor 
Knitting Mills and the Star Hosiery Mills), which give steady employ- 
ment to a large number of employees. It also has two church societies, 
a good school and the usual shops and stores of a well regulated coun- 
try village. 

The Reformed church of Hagaman's Mills was organized January 21, 
1850, by sixty- eight former members of the old society at Manny's Cor- 
ners, and was originally known as the " Presbyterian Church," but 
remained independent of both Presbytery and General Assembly. In 
October, 1855, however, the name was changed to Protestant Dutch 
Church, and in 1867 to Reformed Church. Charles Milne was its first 
pastor, and among the other early pastors were Revs. Kellogg, Amos 
W. Seely, J. L. Pierce, E. Slingerland and A. J. Hagaman, the last 
named being pastor many years. The church edifice was erected in 
1835 and was used in connection with the society at Manny's Corners, 
and was for fifteen years known as the North church. 

The Methodist Episcopal church at Hagaman's Mills was organized 
later on, but it has shown remarkable growth during the period of its 
existence, having now 102 members and twenty-six probationers, with 



TOWN OF AMSTERDAM. 181 

a parsonage costing about $3,000. The present pastor is Rev. R. E. 
Jenkins. 

The Anchor Knitting Mills were built in 1879-80, and are among the 
best of their kind in the country, both in construction and equipment. 
These mills are owned and operated by William M. Pawling, who employs 
100 operators. The product is scarlet knit underwear, of which 120 
dozen are made daily. 

The Star Hosiery Mills are owned by Henry H. Pawling, manufac- 
tMrer of scarlet and fancy underwear. They have eight sets of cards, 
1000 spindles, and eighty-one cylinders. 

The other business interests of the village are represented by Israel 
P. Berm, general merchant and postmaster ; Aaron P., Frank L. and 
John M. Hagaman, general dealers ; Jeremiah Manchester, wagon- 
maker ; Phillips & Pierson, blacksmiths and liverymen ; Joseph L. 
Wilson, merchant; N. A. Caldwell and Henry C. Young, physicians, 
besides minor enterprises equally worthy of mention, did our space per- 
mit. 

Rockton. — Although this is one of the youngest hamlets of the town- 
ship, it is nevertheless highly important in a business point of view. 
The inexhaustible water power afforded by the Chuctenunda, together 
with its proximity to the city, have contributed largely to its growth, 
although forty years ago it only contained one or two saw- mills. 
Originally it was called Rock City, and the change to Rockton is quite 
recent. John Maxwell was the first important manufacturer. He 
formed a partnership with Adam W. Kline in 1857, converted the old 
saw-mill into a hosiery factory, thus founding an industry which has at- 
tracted many others and made Rockton a very active village. 

The firm of Maxwell & Kline began manufacturing hosiery in a small 
way, but in a year or two they doubled the capacity of their mill. In 
i860 their buildings were burned, after which Mr. Maxwell bought out 
his partner and at once built a more substantial factory, which was used 
until 1872 when that, too, was burned down. It was rebuilt, however, 
during the same year. 

Although Rockton is within one and one-half miles of Amsterdam 
city it nevertheless has a Methodist church with ninety members and a 
congregation of about three hundred. The property is estimated to be 
worth about $4,000. Rev. T. C. Harwood is the present pastor. 



182 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

The village is included in Union Free School District No. 9 of the 
town of Amsterdam, the limits of which extend into the city. This 
sciiool is one of the best of its kind in the county, and four teachers are 
employed. The last principal was Adam Yordoti. 

In a preceding paragraph mention has been made of some of the 
early industries, and hence we may now properly refer to those now in 
operation, and which have contributed so greatly to the building up and 
prosperity of this busy place, but it should be added that a number of 
Rockton's prominent manufacturers reside in the city. 

The Mohawk Mills, operated by the firm of Howgate, McCleary & 
Company, is one of the most important enterprises of the region, and 
manufactures exclusively fine Smyrna rugs, carpets and mats. The 
firm employs about eighty skilled workmen, and their total output 
amounts to about 1,000 rugs per week. The individual members of the 
firm are John A. Howgate, "William McCleary, Samuel VVallin and 
David J. Crouse. 

The Park Knitting Mills (L. L. Dean & Co , proprietors) were put in 
operation in 1886, and furnish work for about loO employees. Their 
produce is scarlet underwear, of which from 90 to 125 dozen are made 
per day. The members of the firm are Luther L. Dean, Isaac E. Lyon, 
and James T. Clark. 

The Progress Hosiery Mills (C. E. Warner & Co., proprietors) man- 
ufacture cotten and woolen underwear, and form another of the prom- 
inent industries of Rockton. These mills are equipped with four sets 
of cards, 1080 spindles, 17 knitting and 35 sewing machines, to operate 
which are required lOO employees. The members of the firm are 
Charles E. and William Warner. 

The Red Star Knitting Mills (Austin, Stairs & Blauvett, proprietors) 
manufacture woolen knit goods and operate six sets of cards, sixteen 
knitting and thirty sewing machines. The members of the firm are 
Charles D. Austin, John W. and Robert Stairs, and Edward G. Blau- 
vett. 

The Probity Mill (Benn & Becker, proprietors) manufactures woolen 
and balbriggan underwear and hosiery, operating four sets of cards, 
1056 spindles, 29 knitting and 56 sewing machines The members of 
the firm are William J. Benn and Charles J. Becker. 



TOWN OF AMSTERDAM. 183 

Frank H. Levey's box factory is an industry worthy of mention, as 
the greater part of the paper packing boxes used by the manufacturers 
are made by him. The village also has its merchants, among whom 
we can name Charles A. Buchanan, druggist ; William Finehout, 
Thomas Owens, John A. Rowledge and Charles J. Tighe, grocers. In 
addition we may also mention the extensive stone quarries and lime 
kilns of D. C. Hewitt, which are not only a prominent local industry 
but among the older business interests of the village. 

Harrowers is the name of a small place on the Chuctenunda, a short 
distance above Rockton, whose chief importance is due to the Rural 
Hosiery Mills, owned and operated by Louis E. Harrower. These mills 
are prominent among the great industries of that locality, their equip- 
ment comprising 12 sets of cards, 2600 spindles, 51 knitting and 50 
sewing machines. Their produce is knit shirts and drawers. Edward 
and Maurice Fitzgerald carry on a general store at the same place. 

Akin, formerly known as Mount Johnson and now as Fort Johnson, is 
one of the most historic localities in the Mohawk valley, for here Will- 
iam Johnson, then land agent and merchant, established his home and 
business in 1744, building a mill in the same year. He called the place 
Mount Johnson, and ten years later when it had been fortified, it took 
the name of Fort Johnson, by which it was afterward known until a 
very recent date, when a railway station was established there. This 
station was called Akin and is thus known on the time table, but the 
post-office is still Fort Johnson. 

The only prominent industry at Akin is the knitting mill of A. V. 
Morris & Sons, in which are employed 150 persons. This factory 
was established in 1887, from which year dates the' real importance of 
the place. It also has a Methodist church, which, however, is of recent 
organization, and has a membership of 100 persons, under the pastoral 
care of Rev. M. J. Osteyee, who also supplies the Methodist pulpits of 
Tribes Hill and West Amsterdam. The latter is one of the older church 
organizations of the town, having been formed about 1810. The meet- 
ing-house was erected in i860, and was located on Fort Johnson creek, 
about four miles northeast of Amsterdam city. Akin is noted for its 
hay trade, in addition to which is James F. Marshall's store, and Hurst 
& Sons quarries are not far distant. 



184 HISTORY OF MONT&OMERY COUNTY. 



THE CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 

To trace the rise and growth of a prosperous city is a pleasant and 
yet a frequently difficult task, since it requires an unbroken series of 
records from the inception of the village to the incorporation of a citj'. 
Hence in attempting the history of Amsterdam the writer would men- 
tion in justice to himself, the embarrassment occasioned by the fact that 
by the loss of many of the older records, which has compelled him often 
to depend upon tradition. 

The fact, however, is clear that contemporary with the revolution, 
Albert Veeder settled on a tract at the mouth of the Chuctenunda, 
where even at that early day he built a saw-mill and grist-mill, both 
rude structures, yet sufficient to supply the wants of the settlers. The 
erection of the mills in time induced other pioneers to settle in the 
same locality, but not until about the beginning of the present century 
did it assume the dignity of even a village. The place was known as 
Veeder's Mills, but at what time this was superseded by Veedersburg 
is now uncertain. In 1804, however, the hamlet had acquired a con- 
siderable population, with an almost equal proportion of Dutch and 
Yankees, and the question naturally arose regarding the permanent 
name. At the town meeting in that year the assembled voters deter- 
mined to decide the question by ballot, and as it resulted in a tie. Su- 
pervisor James Allen, being the presiding officer, cast the decisive vote 
in favor of " Amsterdam." 

The village then had not more than one hundred inhabitants, and 
even in 181 3 it was only reported to have about one hundred and fifty. 
The public buildings at the latter date were the school -house and Pres- 
byterian church, added to which were the mill, a number of small shops 
two or three stores and about twenty-five dwellings. From this time, 
however, the growth in population and industries must have been 
more rapid, for in 1830 the village was incorporated by the legisla- 
ture, but it was not until 1831 that the people availed themselves of 
this privilege. 

The act authorizing the election of five trustees and gave to the 
former hamlet the name of " Village of Amsterdam," creating it a 




/yx^^c^^d«-»'»i^''^$^t>*^^>^'*t,' — 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 185 

body politic and corporate, though with the limited powers usual to 
such villages. Ten years later another act provided for the election 
of a clerk, treasurer, collector, pound-master, and other officers nec- 
essary to its government, and also constituted the village a separate 
road district. 

A farther advance was obtained by an act passed April 17, 1854, 
which granted Amsterdam a charter, with increased powers, and 
the village was described at that time as containing one square mile 
of land, divided into two wards, all the territory east of Bridge- and 
Market streets and the Union road forming the First ward, wliile all 
west of that boundary constituted the Second ward. Under this act, 
also, the electors of the village were authorized to elect a president, 
three trustees for each ward, three assessors, a collector and treasurer, 
and the trustees were also empowered to appoint a police justice, one 
or more street commissioners (not exceeding, however, one for each 
district), one or more police constables, a clerk, pound- master, cemetery 
keeper, and one fire warden for each ward. Provision was also 
made for the election of a chief and two assistant engineers by the mem- 
bers of the fire department. We may also properly mention here, as 
incidental to the history of the city, that on April 25, 1864, the legis- 
lature authorized the trustees to purchase and thereafter maintain as 
free the bridge owned by the Amsterdam Bridge Company, which 
crossed the river between the village and Port Jackson. This purchase 
was made for $23,000, and one third of the cost was borne by the town 
of Florida. 

A still greater step toward complete municipal organization was 
granted by the act of April 13, 1865, which provided for the election of 
a president, three trustees for each ward, three assessors, one police 
justice, one or more police constables, a collector, one chief engineer 
and two assistants, a treasurer, a clerk, one or more street commission- 
ers, a pound-master, a cemetery keeper, one fire warden for each ward, 
and a corporation attorney, all to be chosen as required by the act of 
1854. A supplemental act passed June 12, 1875, created a treasurer 
for the fire department, by which he was to be elected. 

On April 16, 1885, the legislature passed an act granting a charter to 
the " City of Amsterdam," dividing it into four wards; and authorizing 

24 



186 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

the election of a mayor, recorder, overseer of the poor, treasurer, two 
justices of the peace, three assessors, three commisioners of excise and 
four constables, all to be chosen at a general election ; also one super- 
visor, two aldermen and inspectors of election, to be elected in each 
ward ; also a city clerk, superintendent of streets, fire warden, pound- 
master, sealer of weights and measures, one chief of police, and six 
policemen, to be appointed by the mayor and common council. In 
1888, another legislative act extended and defined the boundaries of the 
city, the village of Port Jackson being included within its corporate 
limits, and designated the Fifth ward. By the same act permission was 
granted to increase the number of policemen from six to eight. 

Mayors of Amsterdam. — John Carmichael, 18S5 ; Harlan P. Kline, 
1886; Thomas Liddle. 1887-88; John Dwyer, 1889; Hicks B. Wal- 
dron, 1890; William Breedon, 1891-92. 

Supervisors. — 1885, John J. Hand, ist ward; Edward H. Finlayson, 
2d ward ; Julius Wasserman, 3d ward ; Jeremiah Bulger, 4th ward. 
1886, Howard Putman, 1st ward ; WiUiam De Hart, 2d ward ; James 
W. Kline, 3d ward ; Ira W. Hewitt, 4th ward. 1887, Howard Putman, 
1st ward ; Joseph Chadwick, 2d ward ; James W. Kline, 3d ward ; Ira 
W. Hewitt, 4th ward. 1888, D. W. Ecker, 1st ward; E. H. Finlayson, 
2d ward ; James Kline 3d ward ; John Kelley, 4th ward ; Galvin Whit- 
comb, 5th ward. 1889, John D. Goodwin, ist ward; H. O. Wilkie, 2d 
ward ; John Monaghan, 3d ward ; John Kelley, 4th ward ; Thomas Per- 
kins, 5th ward. 1890, John D. Goodwin, ist ward; James Doak, 2d 
ward ; John Monaghan, 3d ward ; John Kelley, 4th ward ; Thomas Per- 
kins, 5th ward. 1891, Seely Conover. 1st ward ; James Doak, 2d ward; 
Peter A. Sullivan 3d ward; Patrick Doorey, 4th ward; Edward J. Per- 
kins, 5th ward. 1892, Seeley Conover, ist ward; James Doak, 2d 
ward ; Peter Sullivan, 3d ward ; Patrick Doorey, 4th ward ; Edward J. 
Perkins, Sth ward. 

Such is the history of Amsterdam as given by the public records, but 
there are other elements equally important and far more interesting, 
which are only found in the beneficent influences of the public and 
private institutions and also those commercial and manufacturing enter- 
prises whose development has given Amsterdam its high rank among 
the cities of America. 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 187 

Educational Institutions. — Many of the facts related in this sketch 
are due to an article prepared by Professor J. G. Serviss, and read by 
him at the fourth annual meeting of the Board of Trade. We learn 
that the first school in this vicinity was taught in i802 by William Reid, 
a Scotchman, and also ihat it was located " on the rocks," where Rock- 
ton now stands, but all vestige of the school-house has long since dis- 
appeared. Another authority, however, says that the first school was 
started prior to even 1800, and was taught by Daniel Shepard, and that 
in later years an addition was built to the school- house, then under 
tuition of Mr. Sill. The building was burned in 1856, and immediately 
a brick school was erected on its site, which in 1876 was enlarged to 
double its original size. It was known as the " old red school house " 
of District No. 8, and was maintained for more than half a century, un- 
til destroyed in the above mentioned manner. In conformity with the 
act of 1853, the village was made a union district the next year and the 
school was likewise made free. 

About 1829 Mrs. Fisher, a clergyman's widow, taught a school of 
young ladies, occupying a building on the site of the more recent resi- 
dence of James A. Miller, while nearly at the same time Mr. Thompson 
opened a boy's school in the old Stiles house on Church street hill, near 
the spring factory. In 1832 Horace E. Sprague erected a three story 
building on High street which was known as the Amsterdam Academy, 
but was afterward removed to the corner of Main and Chuctenunda 
streets, and still later (1865) to its present site. 

The Amsterdam Female Academy was incorporated by the legisla- 
ture March 29, 1839, and also by the Regents of the University, Feb- 
ruary Ij5, 1 841. For the erection of a suitable building the Globe hotel 
property was purchased, and in connection with the academy a young 
ladies' boarding house was established. On April 27, 1865, the name 
of this institution was changed to " Amsterdam Academy," and soon 
afterward the property was sold and a far more extensive academy w as 
erected on the hill, having in connection a boarding department for 
young ladies, while the school received both male and female pupils. 
The first board of trustees under the amended charter was composed of 
Stephen Sanford, president ; S. Pulver Heath, secretary; D. W. Shuler, 
treasurer, and Samuel Belding, Adam W. Kline, Abram V. Morris, S. 



188 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

McElwaine, John Kellogg, John McDonnell, Leonard V. Gardiner, and 
Chandler Bartlett. The first principal was C. C. Wetsell, succeeded by 
W. B. Sims, W. W. Thompson, George H. Taylor, George H. Ottoway, 
Charles V. T. Smith, and Charles C. Wetsell, the last named being the 
present principal. The succession of principals of the old academy was 
as follows: Dr. Sterling, Gilbert Morgan, David H. Crittenden, M. T. 
Calvert, William Howell, O. E. Hovey, and William Aumack. 

We may properly state, however, that the Amsterdam Academy is 
in no manner connected with the public schools of the citj', but has 
been from its inception supported by tuition fees, its object being to 
furnish a higher and more finished education. Its affairs are managed 
by a board of trustees, whose members at present are as follows : 
Stephen Sariford, president; Gardiner Blood, secretary; Martin L. 
Stover, treasurer, and Davis W. Shuler, John Kellogg, James H. Bron- 
son, L. Y. Gardiner, William J. Kline, Adam W. Kline, Frank Morris 
and David D. Cassidy. 

The city of Amsterdam comprises three principal school districts, 
while portions of others include the suburbs. Each of these principal 
districts has its board of education and two of them have superintend- 
ents. An effort, however, has recently been made to consolidate the 
public schools, reducing the boards of education to one body, but thus 
far the attempt has not been successful. 

Union Free School District No. 1 1 has a population of 2,661 children 
of school age, with four schools, one of which is the old stone house on 
Division street. The principal building is at 48 Spring street. The 
average attendance at the several schools in the district during the last 
year was 1,151, and the expense of tuition for the same period was 
$9,611, the number of teachers in the district being twenty-two. 
This district is under the superintendence of Prof John G. Serviss. 
The officers and members of the board of education are as follows : Dr. 
Charles H. Tilton, president ; Hicks B. Waldron, secretary ; A. A. De 
Forest, treasurer ; James T. Sugden, Harvey Chalmers, John A. Spore, 
Charles G. Bellman, W. Barlow Dunlap, Richard Peck, William [J. Benn. 

Union Free School District No. 8 includes the territory of the east- 
ern part of the city, except such part as may be in the suburbs. The 
school population is 2,390, while the attendance is only 709, a discrep- 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 189 

ancy accounted for by the fact that the district includes St. Mary's Pa- 
rochial School, with 650 pupils. This district, like No. 1 1, has a board 
of education, also a superintendent (John W. Kimball), whose office is 
in the school building on East Main street. Twelve teachers are em- 
ployed at an annual expense of $6,800. The officers and members of 
the board of education are S. Messenger, president ; D. S. Dunlap, sec- 
retary, and Delos Lewis, James Voorhees, George V. Stover, H. L. 
Shuttleworth, J. Wasserman, George McCullough, and George Mc- 
Clumpha. 

Union Free District No. 13 includes that part of the city which wa:s 
taken from Florida. In fact the district extends beyond the city limits 
on the south side, while parts of Florida districts, in the same manner, 
extend into the city. The school population in No. 13 is 392, and the 
attendance 247. The district has a board of education but no superin- 
tendent, the members of the former being as follows: Dr. E. E. Ruli- 
son, president; George W. Putnam, secretary; C. Van Buren, George 
R. Harmon, William Visscher, Joseph Perkins, William J. Munsell, 
Benjamin Baird and John Haggarty. 

Of the town districts which include portions of the city we may men- 
tion Nos. 2 and 3 of Florida, the former having a large school, and 
while by far the greater number of its scholars live in the city, yet they 
are compelled to go outside to attend school sessions. District No. 9 
of Amsterdam also includes part of the city. This is the Rockton 
school north of the city, and has four teachers. The last principal was 
Adam Yordon. District No. 10, northwest of Amsterdam, also in- 
cludes a small part of the city. 

St. Mary's Catholic Institute was established April 20, 1881, and al- 
though a sectarian institution, yet it is under the supervision of the State 
Regents. The original building occupied by this school was enlarged 
during the summer of 1884, and reopened on October 22 following. 
The school is taught by the Sisters of St. Joseph, and has senior, inter- 
mediate, junior and primary departments. 

The Women's Christian Temperance Union Industrial School was 
organized in the winter of 1888, with Mrs. J. V. Marcellus superintend- 
ent ; Mrs. H. P. Kline and Miss Nesbet, directresses ; Mrs. E. P. White, 
secretary; and Mrs. Dr. Tilton, treasurer. In the same connection, 



190 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERT COUNTY. 

also, we may properly mention the School of Music established by 
Prof. A. B. Haberer in 1885, and the Amsterdam Business College, 
founded in 1888 by Howard Keller. 

Amsterdam Water Supply. — In 1820 the legislature incorporated the 
Amsterdam Aqueduct Company, of which Marcus T. Reynolds, Bene- 
dict Arnold and Welcome U. Chase were the principal factors, and 
whose design was to furnish a supply of pure and wholesome water to 
the families living on the west side of the Chuctenunda. Also at a later 
day another effort was made to establish a water supply system on the 
east side of the creek, and while both enterprises were rewarded with 
moderate success, the population increased so rapidly that the supply 
soon fell far short of the demand. This system, however, together with 
numerous wells throughout the village, was the only water for domestic 
purposes used in Amsterdam prior to 1881. 

In the year last mentioned the legislature passed an act creating the 
"Water Commissioners of Amsterdam," appointing to this office Stephen 
Sanford, John Kellogg, Davis W. Shuler, Henry Greene, Gardiner 
Blood, John McClumpha, jr., Walter R. McCowatt, Augustus Clarke and 
John McFarlan to serve, three of them for three years, three for four 
years and three for five years, as they should determine by ballot or other- 
wise. On the 13th of May, the commissioners organized by the election 
of Stephen Sanford, president ; John McClumpha, secretary ; and Davis 
W. Shuler. 

For the purpose of procuring an abundant supply of water, a reser- 
voir was constructed on the hill north of the village, and was fed by the 
Rogers and McQueen creeks. The dam is 410 feet long and 50 feet high, 
and stands on a foundation of solid rock. The reservoir covers eighteen 
acres and has a capacity of more than 80,000,000 gallons. From the 
reservoir the water is conducted by pipes extending throughout the city. 
The fire department has the use of 195 hydrants, located at convenient 
points on the streets. The main pipes extend through twenty miles of 
street, and the total cost of the water works was about $300,000. The 
elevation of the reservoir above Main street is nearly 300 feet, and the 
pressure on the mains is regulated by valves. The members of the 
board of water commissioners are as follows: James R. Snell, president ; 
John I. Christman, secretary ; William J. Taylor, treasurer ; Dr. William 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 191 

H. Robb, John Kellogg, Middleton Warnick, Thomas F. Kennedy, 
Robert Blood, Miles Cooline. A. H. De Graff, superintendent. 

The Sewerage System. — As incidental to the excellent system of 
water works owned bj' the city, we may now briefly mention its equally 
admirable system of sewerage, and although both have cost the city 
several hundred thousand dollars, each lias been of such benefit as to 
make it impossible to estimate their real value. The city is now pro- 
vided with about twenty miles of sewers, constructed under the direc- 
tion of sewer commissioners. An act of the legislature passed June 2, 
1886, appointed John K. Stewart, Luther L. Dean, Hicks B. Waldron, 
Miles Kavanaugh, Alexander Mark, James T. Sugden, William J Benn, 
James H. Winnie, and the mayor ex-officio, sewer commissioners, and 
provided for the continuance of the board by the common council. The 
present board of sewer commissioners comprises the following members : 
William Breedon, mayor, president ex-officio; James T. Sugden, Den- 
nis Madden, Howard Putman, secretary, John Kelly, Bernard P. Mac- 
hold, John G. Serviss, Isaac Alder, Cornelius Van Buren, treasurer. 

The Fire Department. — On the 20th of April, 1830, the legislature 
passed an act authorizing the incorporation of the village of Amsterdam, 
and also making provision for the organization of a fire department by 
the board of trustees. The loss of the early village records prevents us 
from giving either the first steps toward organizing this department, or 
the names of the first officers and members. Some of our readers how- 
ever may recall the " Tub," a primitive machine for throwing water, 
which was the private property of James Holliday. In the early history 
of Amsterdam the onlj' effective organization for extinguishing fire was 
the " bucket brigade," and not until 1839 was the village provided with 
a fire engine. Perhaps some of the older residents will remember that 
once famous machine, and it may be that some of the old Mohawk- 
Engine Company are yet living. At a later date the trustees purchased 
another engine and organized the Cascade Engine Company, for which 
a house was built on Market street in 1855. 

In June, 1870, the village purchased the steam engine "J. D. Ser- 
viss," at a cost of $3,000, and caused a company to be organized, having 
sixty members at first, which was soon afterward increased to one 
hundred. In 1871 a second steamer, the " E. D. Bronson," was pur- 



192 HISTORY OF MON'TGOMERT COUNTr. 

chased at a cost of $3,400, and a second company was formed. Each 
company was supplied with two sets of hose and also with other neces- 
sary apparatus to complete the equipment of the department. In 1875 
the first hook and ladder apparatus was bought and a company organ- 
ized for its use. 

The present fire department of the city consists of two steamers, one 
'• truck " company, and six regular hose companies, named and located 
as follows : Eckford Hook and Ladder Company No. i, located at 24 
Livingston street; J. D. Serviss Steamer No. i, at 14 Chuctenunda 
street ; E. D. Bronson Steamer and Hose Company No. 2, at 5 I Mar- 
ket street; Union Hose Company No. 3, at 23 Reid street; W. T. 
Bennett Hose Company No. 4, at 40 Guy street; Emerald Hose Com- 
pany No. 5, at 224 East Main street ; Filkins Hose Company No. 6, 
at 13 Grant street; J. J. Gray Hose Company No. 7, at Centre street. 
The officers of the fire department are as follows : George T. Wallin, 
president ; William H. Son, treasurer ; Isaac Rhodes, secretary ; 
Henry E. Waterstreet, chief engineer ; George Francisco, Charles 
Enser, assistant engineers; Henry E. Waterstreet, fire warden. 

The Board of Trade. — The object of this organization is best stated 
by quoting from its constitution : " It shall have for its object the 
promotion of trade ; the giving the proper direction and impetus to all 
commercial movements ; the encouraging of intercourse between busi- 
ness men; the improvement of facilities for transportation ; the diffus- 
ion of information concerning the trade, manufactures and other inter- 
ests of Amsterdam." That the board of trade has fully carried out 
and accomplished the duty undertaken by its projectors eight years ago 
is proven in many waj's, and in none more conclusively than in the es- 
tablishment of the numerous industries of the last five or six years, and 
in the various local improvements during the same period. 

The board of trade was organized November 26, 1884, in pursuance 
of a former meeting of interested citizens, prominent among whom we 
may mention W. Max Reid, James H. Bronson, George H. Munson, 
Gardiner Blood, John K. Warnick and J. Melvin Thomas, to whom was 
assigned the duty of preparing a constitution and by- laws for the pro- 
posed body. The report of this committee was adopted and the organ- 
ization was perfected at the time mentioned, and the following officers- 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 19S 

were then elected: W. Max Reid, president; James A. Miller, 1st 
vice-president ; Gardiner Blood, 2d vice-president ; John McFarlan, 
3d vice-president; J. Melvin Thomas, secretary; A. A. De Forest, 
treasurer; John K.Warnick, John K. Stewart, Daniel Carmichael, George 
H. Munson, John McClumpha, Martin L. Stover, L. L. Dean, Dr. William 
H. Robb and L. H. Young, directors. The board had fort)-- six charter 
members. The number of present members is iio. The present offi- 
cers are W. Max Reid, president; James A. Miller ist vice-president; 
Gardiner Blood, 2d vice-president ; George R. Hannon, 3d vice-presi- 
dent ; James Howard Hanson, secretary; A. A. De Forest, treasurer; 
Stephen Sanford, Martin L. Stover, Thomas B. Vaiiderveer, Julius 
VVasserman, Luther L. Dean, James T. Sugden, John Kellogg, Henry 
Herrick and Charles C. Yund, directors. 

Banks of Amsterdam. — The old " Farmer's Bank," which was the 
first financial institution, was incorporated in 1839, with a capital of 
$100,000. Cornelius Miller was president, and D. P. Corey, cashier. 
After occupying rooms in various parts of the village it found a per- 
manent location in 1852 in the building erected for it by Marquis Barnes, 
but in 1875 it erected a building for its own use at the corner of Main 
and Railroad streets. In 1859 its capital was increased to $200,000, 
and in 1865 it availed itself of the national banking act and became the 
Farmers' National Bank. The officers are : John Kellogg, president ; 
James Voorhees, vice-president; William J. Taylor, cashier; J. E. 
Williams, assistant cashier, and the board of directors is as follows : 
John Kellogg, John Warren, J. L. Banta, A. V. Morris, James Voorhees, 
William J. Taylor, John K. Stewart, Henry Herrick, John K. Warnick, 
Hiram Hubbs, Hiram Schuyler and George R. Hannon. 

The Bank of Amsterdam was incorporated and organized in i860, 
with Cornehus Miller, president ; Jay Cady, vice-president ; and Charles 
De Wolfe, cashier. In 1865 it was reorganized under the national 
banking act, and became the First National Bank of Amsterdam. Its 
original place of business was in the south Arch block. Main street, 
but in 1868 it erected and occupied the building at the corner of Main 
and Chuctenunda streets. This bank now has a capital stock of $125,- 
000 ; undi.vided profits, $26,000. The officers are as follows : James 
A. Miller, president ; David Cady, vice-president; T. H. Benton Crane, 

25 



194 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

cashier ; and John G. Serviss, James A. Miller, James C. Miller, George 
Clark, John K. Warnick, Oscar F. Nelson, John H. Voorhees, James T. 
Frasier, David Cady, T. H. B. Crane, Luther H. Young, Z. S. West- 
brook and James B. Bailey, directors. 

In 1864 the banking house of Morris, Phillips & Company was es- 
tablished and began business in the village. In 1869 A. V. Morris suc- 
ceeded the former firm and has ever since conducted a large and suc- 
cessful banking business. 

The Manufacturer's Bank was incorporated under the state law in 
Maj', 18^73, and erected a building at the corner of Main and Church 
streets. Its principal officers were Adam W. Kline, president, and 
Charles De Wolfe, cashier. On the 25th of March, 1875, the institution 
reorganized and became known as the Manufacturer's National Bank, 
with A. W. Kline, president, and H. P. Kline, cashier. In the latter 
part of 1883, however, it failed, and Martin L. Stover vvas appointed 
receiver to settle its business aftairs. 

The Merchant's National Bank was incorporated under the national 
banking act of 1883, with a capital of $100,000, but after several years 
of fairly successful business it went into liquidation, while a number of 
its prominent officers and directors purchased the Cassidj' stock in the 
Farmer's Bank and united with that institution. 

The Amsterdam Savings Bank was incorporated and opened for busi- 
ness in February, 1886, at No. 25 Market street. Its deposits now 
amount to more than $300,000, The present officers are as follows : 
S. H. French, president ; Luther L. Dean, and George I. Herrick, vice- 
presidents; George A. Thatcher, treasurer ; W. B. Dunlap, attorney; S. 
H. French, Luther L. Dean, William H. Stebbins, Raymond Christman, 
John Kavanaugh, Bernard Machold, George I. Herrick, Thomas Mor- 
phy, Seely Conover, William A. Donnan, Theo. B. Vanderveer, David 
S. Dunlap, Wilber E. Teflft, Thomas Mansfield, W. B. Dunlap. George 
R. Hannon, and George Spatt, trustees. 

The Amsterdam City National Bank was incorporated in 1889, with 
a capital of $200,000, and although the youngest of the banking insti- 
tutions, is nevertheless one of the strongest in the city. Its officers are 
Stephen Sanford, president ; Davis W. Shuler and Alonzo A. De For- 
est, vice-presidents ; M. Van Buren, cashier ; M. L. Stover, Stephen 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 195 

Sanford, Louis E. Harrower, Davis M. Shuler, Willis Wendell, Alonzo 
A. De Forest, Lawreii Kellogg, John D. Blood, M. Van Buren, Francis 
Morris, Cornelius Van Buren, Luther L. Dean and George McClumpha, 
directors. Its banking house is on Market street. 

Public Institutions — The Young Men's Christian Association was 
organized June ii, 1858, James H. Bronson being its first president, 
and although this has been one of the permanent institutions of the vil- 
lage and city, it did not become permanently located until the old M. 
E. church building on Market street was purchased and fitted up for 
the use of the association. The present members number about 170, 
the officers being as follows : Charles N. Gilbert, president ; Edward A. 
Quire, vice president; Nathan W. Donnan, recording secretary; Dr. 
S. H. French, treasurer. The trustees are James A. Miller, president; 
John G. Serviss, secretary ; Luther L. Dean, treasurer, and George L 
Herrick, W. Max Reid and T. B. Vanderveer. 

The Amsterdam City Hospital was incorporated November 24, 1888, 
through the efforts of the Amsterdam Medical Society. The organiza- 
tion was completed March 25, 1889, and the hospital building at No. 
201 Division street (purchased from David Cady for $5,000) was made 
ready to receive patients on September 17, following. The first officers 
of the association were T. B. Vanderveer, president ; Cornelius Van- 
Buren and David Cady, vice-presidents ; Thomas F. Kennedy, treasurer, 
and W. Max Reid, secretary. The present officers are as follows: Cor- 
nelius Van Buren, president ; David Cady and John K. Stewart, vice- 
presidents ; Thomas F. Kennedy, treasurer; W. Max Reid, secretary. 
The matron of the hospital is Mrs. Marian Lingenfelter. 

The City Hospital Aid Society is an organization which has been 
chiefly instrumental in promoting the success of the hospital and placing 
it upon a permanent basis. The officers of the Aid Society are Mrs. 
H. E. Greene, president ; Mrs. Nias Hewitt, Mrs. Le Grand Strong, 
Mrs. Louis Peck, Mrs. D. W. Shukr, vice-presidents; Mrs. H. C. Stor- 
rie, recording secretary ; Mrs. W. E. Tefft, corresponding secretary, 
Mrs. T. G. Hyland, treasurer. 

In mentioning the institutions of the city we may in this connection 
refer to the Children's Home, located at No. 81 Spring street, the man • 
agement of which is vested in a president, vice-presidents and several 



196 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

committees. The president is Mrs. William K. Greene, and the vice- 
presidents are chosen from the several Protestant churches of the city. 
Although a comparatively recent organization, the Home has proved 
itself a great blessing to the neglected youth of the city. 

The Amsterdam Medical Society, embracing in its membership nearly 
all of the regular physicians of the city, was organized November 22, 
1884, with the following officers: S. H. French, president; Charles 
Stover, vice-president; Thomas G. Hyland, secretary; D. M. McMar- 
tin, treasurer ; and these officers with Dr. William H. Robb, formed the 
executive committee. The present officers are William H. Robb, pres- 
ident ; Charles F. Zimmerman, secretary and treasurer. S. H. P^rench 
with the above mentioned officers constitute the executive committee. 

The Amsterdam Library Association was organized during the latter 
part of 1 891 ; the first library in the village, however, existed as early 
as 1820, and we learn that William Reid was for many years its active 
manager and also librarian, but there is no record of its later years. 
The new library is supported by gifts and membership fees, and con- 
tains about 1,500 volumes of well selected literature. The officers of 
the association are William H. Robb, president ; S. H. French, vice- 
president ; Mrs. M. H. Trapnell, secretary ; David Cady, treasurer. 

The Chuctenunda Gas Light Company was organized in i860, but its 
early years were marked by many difficulties, chiefly occasioned by the 
rock through which its pipes were laid. In 1866 the works were de- 
stroyed by fire, but were immediately rebuilt. In 1876, however, an 
increasing demand for gas required enlarged works, which were erected 
near the central depot. The officers of the company are Stephen San- 
ford, president ; Davis W. Shuler, secretary ; James H. Ward, superin- 
tendent ; John Kellogg, David Cadj-, John K. Stewart, James A. Mil- 
ler, directors. 

The Edison Electric Light and Power Company, the Amsterdam 
Arc Light Company, and the Amsterdam Street Railroad Company 
are practically one corporation. In 1873 the Street Railway Company 
was formed, and laid and operated nearly two miles of horse railroad 
through Main, Market and Division streets. In June, 1890, the Am- 
sterdam Street Railroad Company succeeded the former and equipped 
the road with electric cars, and now operate six motor and six " trail " 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 197 

cars over three miles of track, using the Edison system for the power. 
The company has a capital of $250,000, and its officers are as follows : 
J. H. McClement, president; Frank J. Sprague, vice-president ; Thom- 
as D. Mosscrop, secretary and treasurer; James R. Snell, general man- 
ager. 

Cemeteries. — The first burial ground in Amsterdam was situated on 
Bridge street between Main street and the river. The building of the 
railroad, however, and the erection of business blocks and dwelling 
houses have obliterated all traces of its former existence. The second 
burying-ground was located on the hill, on Market and Prospect streets, 
but was soon filled, thus rendering a third cemetery necessary. A 
cemetery association was organized in 1857, and in the next year pur- 
chased a tract of fourteen acres of land on the north side of the village 
at the corner of Church and Cornell streets. Here Greenhill cemetery 
was laid out, the ground being beautifully ornamented with forest trees 
and evergreens, while gracefully winding drives and v/alks make every 
part accessible. The officers of the association are : Stephen Sanford, 
president; John Kellogg, vice-president; George H. McClumpha, sec- 
retary; A. A. De Forest, treasurer; superintendent Richard W. Sut- 
ton. 

The other cemeteries of the city are St. Mary's and St, Joseph's, be- 
longing respectively to the parishes of the same name. 

The Amsterdam Press. — In December, 1 83 1 , the Mohawk Herald ma.de 
its first appearance under the editorial management of Darius Wells. 
Two years later, however, the paper was sold to Philip Reynolds and 
by him moved to Johnstown and changed to the Johnstown Herald. 
When Reynolds moved to Fonda the paper was published at that 
place. 

The Mohawk Gazette was founded in 1833 by Josiah Noonan, and is 
still a live publication of Amsterdam, notwithstanding its frequent 
changes in ownership and an occasional change in title. After having 
been published for one year by Mr. Noonan, the firm of Wing & Davis 
next assumed its management, and its name was changed to The Intel- 
ligencer. In 1836 this firm was succeeded by S. D. Marsh, who con- 
ducted the paper until 1854, and then sold it to Xenophon Haywood, 
who changed the name to the Amsterdam Recorder. From 1868 to 



198 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

1882 Andrew Neff owned and publislied the Recorder, which was then 
edited by Charles P. Winegar, but in the last mentioned year he formed 
a partnership with Edward H. Finlayson, a practical journalist, and the 
new firm made it a daily paper. W. P. Belden became owner of the 
Nefif interest in 1883, but in 1889 he sold out to Mr. Finlayson. Mar- 
tin Lynck became a part owner of the Recorder in 1891, and during the 
proprietorship of Finlayson & Lynck the political tone of the paper 
has materially changed, being now an advocate of Democracy, whereas 
it was formerly strongly Republican. Later on Mr. Finlayson disposed 
of his interest and found a wider field for his ability in New York. 

The third newspaper was called the Dispatch, the first number ap- 
pearing during i860, under the management of Winegar & Van Allen. 
It was at first printed daily, but at the end of about six months it be- 
came a weekly, but the venture proved unprofitable and in 1864 the 
Dispatch was discontinued. 

The Amsterdam Democrat, a weekly paper, was established in 1868 
by George O Smith and Walter B. Matthewson, but after three months 
Mr. Smith sold out to Angell Matthewson. In 1871 John F. Ashe 
purchased the later Matthewson interest, and in August, 1873, the en- 
tire plant passed into the hands of William J. Kline. Previous to this 
time it was published as a Democratic paper, but Mr. Kline at once 
made it independent, and later on turned it into an ardent advocate 
of Republican principles. On the 20th of August, 1879, in connec- 
tion with the weekly, Mr. Kline founded the Z'rtzT)' Z)f7«^c;-rt^, and has 
since then continued both papers with marked success. The manage- 
ment is conducted by William J. Kline, editor and proprietor; John 
E. Willoughby, journalist ; Seward Kline, business manager. 

The Amsterdam Sentinel was founded in 1879 as a weekly Demo- 
cratic paper, by Martin Lynck and Thomas McNally, but after a few 
months Mr. Lynck sold his interest to Edward H. Finlayson, and the 
firm changed to Finlayson Sz; McNally. In 1881 the paper was 
purchased by Z. S. Westbrook, George H. Loadwick, Thomas F. Ken- 
nedy and W. N. Johnson, who continued the publication until October, 
1884. Mr. Loadwick then became its editor and publisher, and also 
during the same year established the Daily Sentinel, an evening paper. 
On May 26, 1888, however, the daily became a morning paper, the only 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 199 

morning issue now published between Alba nj- and Utica, and is highly 
successful. 

In addition to the regular daily and weekly papers Amsterdam pos- 
sesses, we may briefly mention the other periodicals now having an of- 
fice in the city. The Patent Herald was started in 1878 by editor 
J. O. Lingenfelter, and is issued monthly. The Institute Journal, also 
a monthly paper, was founded in 1884, and is published by St. Mary's 
Catholic Institute. Our Fuz/w^J/ifw is published monthly by the Young 
Men's Christian Association. The Church Herald\s likewise published 
monthly by the Methodist Episcopal societies. 

CHURCH HISTORY. 

The Second Presbyterian Church. — In the year i 800 a number of the 
members of the old Dutch church of Amsterdam, becoming dissatisfied 
with the action of the society in erecting a church in the remote part 
of the town then known as " Manny's Corners," severed their connec- 
tion with the mother society and in the same year organized the 
Dutch Reformed church of Veedersburg, and erected an edifice at the 
corner of Main and Market streets. At this time Rev. Conrad Ten 
Eyck was pastor of the old church and likewise rendered temporary 
pastoral service to the new organization, but was finally compelled to 
resign both charges on account of that weakened condition due to their 
separation. The Veedersburg church remained for eleven years with- 
out a pastor, but in 18 12 it changed its ecclesiastical connection and be- 
came Presbyterian, an action previously taken by the mother society, 
and resulting in a reunion and reorganization as one body under the 
name of Presbyterian Church of Amsterdam. 

On March 3, 1832, 104 members of the above mentioned church 
having previously obtained the sanction of the Presbytery, took letters 
of dismissal, and having organized the Presbyterian church of Amster- 
dam village, began immediately the erection of a suitable edifice at the 
corner of Church and Grove streets. It was finished and dedicated in 
August of the same year and was used until 1869, the last service be- 
ing held May 9, when the old building was demolished and was replaced 
by a larger and more elegant structure. The new building is of brick 
with limestone trimmings, its plan being the Romanesque style of 



200 HISTORYJOF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

architecture. It cost about $40,000, and has sittings for 1,000, per- 
sons. Annexed to the edifice is a chapel which seats 250, and ever* 
more on extraordinary occasions. In February, 1871, by direction of 
the Presbytery, and upon application, this church was designated the 
Second Presbyterian Church of Amsterdam, the old church at Manny's 
Corners being at the same time designated as the "First" church. 
The pastors of the church have been Reverends Conrad Ten Eyck ; 
Ebenezer H. Stillman, 1813-15 ; Halsey A. Wood, 1816-25 ; James 
Wood, 1826-33; Hugh M, Koontz, 1834-36; Montgomery S. Good- 
ale, 1836-70; Henry S. Teller, 1870-80-81 ; Charles H. Baldwin, in- 
stalled March 8, 1881, and is the present pastor. 

The officers of the church are James H. Bronson, James A. Miller, 
David Cady, T. Romeyn Bunn, Henry Herrick, Gardiner Blood and 
John G. Van Derveer, elders ; and Thomas S. Stanley, Joshua Sharp- 
ley, Nicholas J. De Graff, deacons. 

Iimnaniiel Presbyterian Church of Amsterdam was organized Feb- 
ruary 8, 1887, being the outgrowth of a mission Sunday-school organ- 
ized the year previous. The insurance money paid to the Albany 
Presbytery after the burning of the old church at Manny's Corners was 
appropriated to the Immanuel society, and was used for building the 
present church on West Spring street, the total cost of which was about 
$18,000. The first temporary minister of the society was Rev. Herbert 
C. Hinds, followed by Charles S. Dudley. The first pastor was Rev. 
Lester J. Sawyer, who was installed March i, 1889, and still retains that 
office. Its membership is 1 10, and the Sunday-school has 200 scholars. 
The officers of the society are: elders, Thomas Morphy, John G. Serviss, 
Oliver S. Kline and William M. White ; and deacons, D. B. Shelp, 
Elias H. Devenburg and David W. Ecker. 

St. Ann's Church (Protestant Episcopal). — This church is descended 
from the historic Queen Anne's Chapel, built within the enclosure of 
Fort Hunter 171 1, and demolished in the construction of the Erie 
canal. St. Anne's parish at Port Jackson was organized December 22, 
1835, the church being erected in 1836, and consecrated in the follow- 
ing year. The growth of the parish, however, was much retarded by 
the unfavorable location. Amsterdam was rapidly increasing while in 
Port Jackson the growth was very slow. Hence the parishioners north 





-Ew hyp ftie^-n<l»,KY■ 




^ 



CITY OF ANfSTERDAM. 201 

of the river were at much inconvenience to cross the bridge to attend 
service. For this reason the church was sold in 1849, during the rector- 
ship of A. N. Littlejohn, and the proceeds ($2,400) were appHed to the 
purchase of a new site on Division street. On this lot a church was 
erected, and consecrated June 15, 1851, by Bishop De Lancey, of the 
diocese of western New York, but the rectory was not purchased un- 
til many years later. Tiie succession of rectors of St. Anne's parish 
since its establishment in this city has been Reverends William H. 
Frapnell, January 27, 1854, to April 24, 1857; J. A. Robinson, Au- 
gust 26, 1858, to 1864; Porter Thomas, 1864 to i860; Thomas G. 
Clenison, November 14, i86g, to December 10, 1870; Howard T. Wid- 
demer, April, 1871, to January i, 1875 ; J. C. Hewitt, 1875, rector 
about fourteen months; William N. Irish, July i, 1876, to April, 1884. 
In August, 1884, Rev. David Sprague entered upon his duties as rector 
and St. Anne's church now has 330 members. The Sunday-school has 
210 scholars. The present church officers are as follows : Wardens, — 
W. Max Reid and John J. Hand ; vestrymen, Cyrus B. Chase, Thomas 
Mansfield, Charles S. Nesbet, William Ryland, Le Grand S. Strong, 
Hicks B. Waldron and John K. Warnick. 

The First Methodist Episcopal Ckzirch of Amsterdam has its origin 
in the formation of a class in 1827, the organization of the society fol- 
lowing soon afterward. About the year 1832 the society purchased 
the old Dutch Reformed Church of Veedersburg, and removed it to the 
corner of Main and Wall streets, where it stood until 1845, when it was 
again removed to Market street, where it still stands and is now the 
property of the Y. M. C. A. After the last removal, however, of the 
old pioneer church it was enlarged and remodeled ; and in i860 it was 
again enlarged. The present large and commodious Methodist church 
was begun in July, 1881, and finished and dedicated in October, 1883. 
Rev. W. H. Hughes was pastor at the time of dedication, and was suc- 
ceeded by M. D. Jump, who labored three years. Rev. W. M. Brundage 
became pastor in April, 1889, and still continues in charge, his present 
membership being 1,200, while the Sunday-school has 700 scholars, the 
latter being under the superintendence of W'. J. Benn. 

East Main Street Methodist Episcopal Chjirch is conducted under the 
auspices of the official board of the First Church, by which it was estab- 

?6 I 



202 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

lished a few years ago. The church was built during the fall and win- 
ter of 1891-92, and dedicated in the following April. Rev. J. G. Patten, 
the assistant pastor of the mother church devotes much of his time to 
this society, whose congregation is of an encouraging character, while 
the Sunday-school has about 175 scholars. Mr. Patten, who is super- 
intendent, came to the city in 1891, prior to which time the meetings 
were conducted by the young men of the First church. 

The German Methodist Episcopal Church Society was organized in 
1886, and has had three pastors, Rev. Gotleib Bubak, William Schluter, 
and Carl Stecker. The church on Division street was built in 1S86, 
at a cost of about $1,500. The society numbers about 1 10 members, 
and is now under the pastoral care of Mr. Stecker. The officers are 
Charles Ossenfort, Henry Brinkman, August Coder, Henry Schwenker, 
John Schwenker, William Kroner, Henry Needenmire and Ferdinand 
Naraski. 

The First Baptist Church of Amsterdam was organized in 1800, and 
was connected with the Shaftsbury Association until 1808. The society 
appears to have then become extinct, as no reports were made until 
1825, when it was reorganized with sixteen members and joined the 
Saratoga Association. Four years later a brick church was erected on 
Main street, but eventually was used as a dwelling. In 1842 the edifice 
on Market street was built, and has been in constant use by the society 
until the present year (1892), during which the elegant brick church on 
Division street was completed. The old church was dedicated Novem- 
ber 17, 1842, the number of members at that time being 109; the 
present number is 566. 

The first pastor was Rev. John Holmes who came in 1805 and died in 
1808. The first pastor after the reorganization was Rev. David Corwin, 
who came in 1829 and left in 1832, after which time the succession of 
pastors was Reverends Absalom B. Earl, 1833-35 ; J. J.Whitman, 1836- 
37; Solomon Gale, junior, 1838-39; Edwin Westcott, 1840; J. W. 
Gibbs, 1841-42 ; W. H. Hutchinson, 1844-46; J. M. Harris, 1847-52 ; 
W. Kingsley, 1853; J. E. Kinney, 1854-55; R. Winegar, 1857-61; 
W. Groom, jr., 1862-63; W. F. Fagan, 1864-65; L. W. Olney, 1866- 
67; John E. Cheeshire, 1868-70; William M. Lawrence, 1871-72; 
L. W. Olney, 1873; E. F. Crane, 1874-75; J. E. Emory, 1876-79; 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 203 

C. B. Perkins, 1880-88; Frank P. Stoddard, January I, 1889, who is 
still in service. 

Calvary Baptist Church of Amsterdam was organized in 1889, when 
137 former members of the First church took letters of dismissal and 
many of them united to the new society, which thus far has held its 
meetings in a hall on Market street. The first pastor was Rev. William 
Wyeth, followed by Rev. Dewitt T. Van Doren, who resigned July, 
1892. 

St. Mary s Church [Roman Catholic). The earliest services of the 
Roman Catholic church in this vicinity were held in 1837, when Father 
Beauchamp visited the three villages and occupied the old Universalist 
church standing at the corner of Main and Market street. It was not, 
however, until 1844 that any church organization took place, when a 
building on the south side of the river was used for service. In 1849 
Father Cull purchased the edifice formerly occupied by the society of 
St. Anne's church, in Port Jackson, which was used b)' his parishioners 
for several years, until the erection of the new edifice on the north side 
of the river. The latter, however, was replaced in 1869 by the more 
modern and comfortable church on Main street. Immediately after the 
erection of the walls of this edifice, the west side fell to the ground, 
severely injuring two workmen, and again in 1876 a severe gale blew 
down the church spire, which struck the roof of the priest's house and 
seriously injured the building. So far as we are able to ascertain, the 
succession of priests of St. Mary's church and parish have been as fol- 
lows: Reverends McClusky, Cull, McCallion, Sheehan, McCue, O'Sul- 
livan. Furlong, J. P. Fitzgerald, Carroll, E. P. Clark, Philip Keveney, 
W. B. Hannett and John Patrick Mclncrow, the latter being appointed 
to this parish September 20, 1878. The present priest's residence and 
the convent building were erected in 1 887, under the direction of Father 
Mclncrow. 

St. Joseph's German Roman Catholic Church was organized October 
10, 1884, having about eighty families in its parish. Rev. Edward 
Hipelius was the first priest, and was followed by Andrew Stefferle. 
Rev. Andrew Duplang, the present pastor, was appointed October 22, 
1888. The church was built in 1884, the total value of parish property 
being about $25,000. The present number of families in the parish is 



204 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

125. Connected with the church is St. Joseph's school, organized in 
iiSgi, and now having in regular attendance 130 scholars. 

The Reformed Church of Port Jackson (now Amsterdam) was organ- 
ized in 1849 o"" ^^50, and the church was erected in the year last men- 
tioned, at a cost of $4,000 or $5,000. In i8cS6 the building was thoroughly 
repaired and enlarged, requiring an outlay of about $9,000. The society 
owns free of debt the church, parsonage and two carriage sheds, the 
whole being worth about $18,000. The pastors have been Reverends 
Garret L. Roof, 1850-55; Cornelius Gates, 1856-57; A.J.Sawyer, 
1858; Isaac G. Duryea, 1859-62; Henry M. Voorhees, 1863-65; A. 
M. Quick, 1865-69; H. Pettengill, 1870-73; John Minor, 1873-80. 
The present pastor. Rev. J. R. Kyle, was installed in December, 1880. 

The German Evangelical Lutheran Trinity Chnrcli was organized in 
1869, having fifteen original members, and in the same year a frame 
meeting-house on Grove street was erected. The society was formed 
chiefly through the efforts of Charles Klugel and Charles Spalt. The 
first pastor was I. Krechting, who remained until 1879, being succeeded 
by G. L. Rietz, who died in 1887. During his pastorate a lot on Spring 
street was purchased and a handsome brick edifice was completed dur- 
ing the labors of Rev. Otto C. Konrad, who has been the minister of the 
church since 1887. The property of this society is estimated at 
about $50,000. The regular members number 1,000 persons, and the 
Sunday-school has 500 scholars. 

The Germati Evangelical Association held meetings in Amsterdam in 
1883, the missionary being G. M. Schlegenhauf, and the society organ- 
ization was completed and the church built in 1884. The building is of 
' brick and is located on Elizabeth street. The number of members is 
130; the Sunday-school has about "JO scholars. The ministers and 
pastors have been Reverends G. N. Schlegenhauf, F. Lohmcyer, Jacob 
Burghardt, and F. E. Herer, the last mentioned pastor having been in- 
stalled in April, 1892. 

Trinity Reformed Church was organized in February, 1 892, and holds 
its meetings in Academy Hall. The pastor is Rev. James A. Beattie. 
The officers of the society are Harvey Bossier, J. M. Smeallie, and M. W. 
Donnan ; deacons, E. O. Bartlett and W. H. Carver. The society has 
about twenty members. 




/^^i^i-ce Q^r^////^^/^. 



CITY OK AMSTKUDAM. 205 

Congregational Temple of Israel soc\t\.y was organized May i8, 1874 
under the pastoral charge of Josepli Gregger, who continued in that 
relation thirteen years when he was succeeded by I. E. Vogenheim, who 
remained two years. The present rabbi, Henry Kline, came to the 
society in May, 189 1. No synagogue has ever been provided for the 
society, its meetings being held in the Rehr block. 

Manufactures of Amsterdam. — Kvtn before the revolution Albert 
Veeder built a saw and grist-mill on the Chuctenunda, and founded tlie 
little village of Veedersburg on the site of the prosperous city of Am- 
sterdam. Almost three-quarters of a century, however, elapsed before 
this locality acquired prominence as a manufacturing centre, while its 
greatest advance has been made during the last twenty-five years. 
In 1804 Veedersburg was changed to Amsterdam, but it remained for 
a still later generation to develop the resources of the Chuctenunda 
and utilize its waters for manufacturing purposes. 

Between the years 1830 and 1 840 there was built and put in oper- 
ation a number of mills, which, with the cutting down of the northern 
forests, exhausted the water power, making it necessary to resort to 
artificial means for restoration. It was not, however, until 1848 that 
any movement took [)lace, when the mill owners, prominent among whom 
were John Sanford, John M. Harvey and John M. Clark, constructed 
a dam across the stream, at a point above the Forest paper-mill and 
reserved the surplus water for future use. In 1855 it became necessary 
to increase the supply, and consequently a reservoir was constructed 
in Galway, covering 450 acres, which was enlarged in 1865 to cover 550 
acres. In 1875 the banks of the reservoir were raised, increasing the 
area of stored water to i,000 acres. At this time also a board of trustees 
was formed for the purpose of maintaining the supply, Stephen Sanford 
being made president, and John Kellogg treasurer. The incorporators 
were Stephen Sandford, William K. Greene, Hoel S. McElwaine, Adam 
W. Kline, Davis Shuler, John Kellogg and John C. Miller; capital 
stock, not less than $10,000 nor more than $50,000. 

The establishment of this supply has been of immense advantage to 
the manufacturing interests of Amsterdam, as it has attracted many of 
the large factories that have been built at various places on the Chucte- 
nunda, which, with others in the locality, have made this place one 



206 HISTORY OP MONTGO^rERY COUNTY. 

of the most noted manufacturing centres in interior New York. To 
some of these, past and present, it is our purpose now to make brief 
reference. 

In 1842 William K. Greene withdrew from the firm of Wait, Greene 
& Company of Hagaman's Mills and came to Amsterdam, where he 
started a carpet factory in a small building where now stands the Green 
Knitting Company's works. A few years afterward John Sanford ac- 
quired an interest in the business, which was then removed to the old 
Harris mill, further up the stream. At length however, Mr. Green re- 
tired from the firm, which thereafter became known as J. Sanford & 
Son. In 1853 the senior member retired and Stephen Sanford became 
its sole proprietor. Later on the firm became S. Sanford & Sons (its 
present style), and this house has built up the most extensive carpet 
manufacturing industry in the country, giving employment to nearly 
2,000 operatives. The members are Stephen, John and William C. 
Sanford the first being the father and the other his sons. The success 
of William K. Green and the Sanfords naturally led others to engage 
in the same manufacture. The most prominent of the later factories 
is that now owned and operated by Shuttleworth Brothers, the partners 
being John, James and Walter, whose extensive factory is at the foot 
of Lifferts street, near the railroad. Here also hundreds of employees 
are constantly engaged, constituting one of the most important indus- 
tries of the city. In the same connection we may briefly mention the 
commonly called " Rug Mill " of Howgate, McCIeary & Company, at 
Rockton, and although not strictly an industry of this city is neverthe- 
less so connected as to be worthy of mention in this place. 

In 1856 William K. Green and John McDonnell began the manufac- 
ture of knit goods in the small building where now stands the extensive 
mills of the Green Knitting Company. In 1868 Mr. McDonnell withdrew, 
the business being thenceforth conducted by Mr. Green, who increased 
it by building a much larger mill on the old site. In 1870 the proprie- 
tor died, and was succeeded by his sons, E. P. and Henry E. Green, 
and also John K. Warnick, under the name of W. K. Green's Sons & 
Company. Upon the death of E. H. Green (1876) the firm became 
W. K. Green's Son & Company. In 1881 Henry E. Green died, and 
in 1882 the Green Knitting Company, manfacturers of knit underwear. 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 207 

was formed, and now operates the large factory at No. 63 to 85 Market 
street, furnishing employment to 450 workers in the various depart- 
ments. 

The Pioneer Knitting Mills, a large three stoiy brick building at 29 
and 31 East Main street, is the outgrowth of a business established 
by Adam W. Kline and John Maxwell, in 1856. The former, it is 
said, was the first to engage in the manufacture of knit goods in 
Amsterdam. His first place of business was at Rockton, but being 
burned out he came to the village, and in company of his son built a 
mill on the east side of the Chuctenunda. In 1866, however, the build- 
ing was destroyed by fire, and the firm erected on the same site a grist- 
mill, which they operated for a time, but preferring their other business, 
converted it into the Pioneer Hosiery Mills, later known as the Pion- 
eer Knitting Mills, owned and operated by Harlan P. Kline and 
Charles Hubbs, the former the son of its founder. The mills are now 
operated by J. N. Van Antwerp. John Maxwell, above referred to, in- 
vented the machinery used by the firm of Maxwell & Kline, arid 
patented it in 1853, and afterward secured other valuable patents on 
knitting machinery. He also became proprietor of the Amity Knitting 
Mills. 

The McFarlan Mills are the outgrowth of the still older Amsterdam 
Hosiery Mills, established on Chuctenunda Hill by John McFarlan in 
1 86 1, and is therefore one of the oldest industries of the city. The 
present firm comprises John McFarlan and John H. Giles, the style being 
McFarlan & Company. They are general manufacturers of knit un- 
derwear, and employ in their large four story brick building about 125 
operatives. 

The Chuctenunda Mills were established in 1864 by James H. Schuy- 
ler and Gardiner Blood in a building on Market street. It was erected 
in 1879 and is four stories high, and affords employment to nearly 200 
persons. In 1879 Mr. Schuyler died, and in 1889 John K. Stewart be- 
came partner with Mr. Blood under the firm of Blood & Stewart. They 
manufacture knit shirts, drawers and jackets. 

The Clinton Hosiery Mills, located at No. 14 Livingston street, of 
which O. F. Nelson and J. C. Miller under the firm of Nelson & Miller 
were for some time proprietors, was founded by Mr. Nelson in 1864. 



208 HISTORY OP MONT&OMERY COUNTY. 

The products are knit underwear goods. Mr. Miller becanie partner 
with Mr. Nelson in 1882, but in 1890 A. V. Morris & Sons succeeded 
the old firm, and now operate the mills. 

The Riverside Mills, of which the firm of Warner, De Forest & Com- 
pany are proprietors, comprise three large buildings, two of which are in 
the rear of No. 18 Market street, while the third, known as mill No. 3, 
is near tlie railroad. The joint output of these mills is said to equal 
that of any knit goods firm in the state. This large industry had its 
origin in the enterprise founded by the firm in 1871 in the old "Fur- 
nace " building near the railroad. The first of the three buildings now 
in use, known as Mill No. i, was erected in 1875, and in it are employed 
140 persons; the second, known as Mill No. 2, standing near No. i, 
was built in 1880, and the third in 1883. In Mill No. 2 are employed 
150, and in No. 3, 125 persons. The present members of the firm are 
John Warner, Alonzo A. De Forest, James T. Sugden and James 
Faulds. 

In 1873 the the firm of Phillips, Denton & Loudon began the manu- 
facture of knit goods in the large three-story brick building now occu- 
pied by the firm of Thomas & Pettengill. The first change in the part- 
nership was made soon after the business was started, Phillips, Gardiner 
& Co. being the successors, but in 1877 Gardiner & Thomas succeeded 
the last mentioned firm. In 1885 W. T. Pettengill formed a partner- 
ship with Mr. Thomas and they became sole proprietors. The manu- 
factures of this house are boys' knit underwear, in which more than 100 
persons are employed. Under the ownership of Gardiner & Thomas 
the factory was known as the Mohawk Valley Hosiery Mill, located on 
Main street (now 130 West Main), near the river. 

The Metropolitan Hosiery Mills. — The firm of W. R. McCowatt & 
Co., manufacturers of scarlet knit underwear, is the outgrowth of the 
older firm of McCowatt & Nelson, formed in 1878. In 1884 Mr. Nel- 
son was succeeded by L. L. Dean, and the firm was changed to Mc- 
Cowatt & Dean. A year later Thomas Liddle and George B. Stover 
purchased the Dean interest, Mr. Liddle, however, retiring soon after- 
wards. Mr. McCowatt died in 1883, but his name is still retained at 
the head of the firm. Those at present in the firm are the heirs of the 
McCowatt estate, Gardiner Blood and George B. Stover. Their mills 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 209' 

are located at Nos. 29, 31, 33 and 35 Chuctenunda street, where are 
employed lOO operatives. 

The Clermont Hosiery Mill, Edward McDonnell, manager, wasestab-- 
lished by its present owner in 188 1. It is located on Chuctenunda Hill. 
Mr. McDonnell is also the manager of the former Globe Hosiery Mills 
located on the hill, and formerly operated by Clark & Kline, but now 
reorganized under the name of United Knitting Company. 

A. V. Morris & Son, the individual members of which firm are 
Abram V., P'rancis and John Morris, began the manufacture of knit under- 
wear in 1 88 1, at No, 7 Chuctenunda street, where they now employ 
about 150 operatives. In 1887 the firm started another mil! at Fort 
Johnson, where are employed an equal number of hands. Also in 
1890 they succeeded the firm of Nelson & Miller, who were formerly 
proprietors of the Clinton Hosiery Mills. 

The Royal Knitting Mills, at the corner of Hamilton and Corey 
streets, were established in 1886, by W. P. Snyder and Eli Van Brock- 
lin, under the firm name of Snyder & Van Brocklin, manufacturers of 
fancy knit underwear. Mr. Van Brocklin afterward removed'to North- 
ville, and the firm changed to Snyder & Hull, and is now Snyder, Hull 
& Smith. 

The firm of Gardiner & Warring, manufacturers of knit goods at No. 
5 Yeoman street, was established in 1886, and in the same year erected 
the large mill building it now occupies, and known as the West End 
Knitting Mill. The members of the firm are James B. Gardiner and 
Charles H. Warring. 

The Amsterdam Knitting Company is one of the more recent of 
these manufactories, having been in operation only a few years. The 
buildings are on West Main street, where mitten backs are chiefly made. 
The proprietors are Carl Teyst and Adelbert Pangburn. 

The Atlas Knitting Company, successor to Thomas & Pettingill, was 
formed in 1890 and manufactures knitted shirts and drawers. The pro- 
prietors are John H. Giles, Henry Herrick, Frederick Green and John 
K. Warnick. 

The Eagle Knitting Mills have been in operation about four years, 
under the ownership of Charles C. and Theodore J. Yund and Thomas 
F. Kennedy, the firm being Yunds & Kennedy. The mills are at the 
foot of Eagle street. 



210 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

The Spartan Mills, John and William A. Liddle, proprietors, were 
put in operation in 1891, and manufacture knitted shirts and drawers, 
•employing 125 persons. 

McMlwain & Salisbury are also among the more recently formed 
knitting firms of the city, and their works are at No. i Livingston street. 

The firm of J. J. Rowe & Son (John J. and Charles Rowe), is among 
the younger knit goods manufacturers. Their product, however, dif- 
fers from that of the majority of the knitting mills of the locality, being 
fine Egyptian and silk goods. Their factory is situated on Center street, 
and is known as the West Shore Knitting Mill. 

The Amsterdam Silk Mill, under the proprietorship of Louis Lich- 
tenheim, is another of the recent industries of the citj- worthy of men- 
tion. The mill is located on Elk street, where are manufactured mitts, 
gloves and Jersey cloths. 

The manufacture of knitted goods of all descriptions indeed is the 
leading industry of the city, and employs more capital and labor than 
any other line of manufacture. It has also been the direct means of 
drawing hfther other factories whose product is largely dependent upon 
the hosiery and knitting mills. We refer to the constantly increasing 
output of the paper box factories, of which there are three, and the ex- 
tensive similar works at Rockton and vicinit)'. Of those in the city, 
we mention first that of the Inman Manufacturing Company, located at 
Nos. 51 and 53 Spring street, established in 1879, of which Horace In- 
man is the proprietor. Another large Industry of the same character is 
the Manufacturers' Paper Box Companj , at No. 23 Livingston street, 
of which John H. Giles is secretary. The firm of Overton & Van Wyck, 
the members of which are Robert H. Overton and James P. Van Wyck, 
have also a large box factory at 149 Florida avenue. 

At this time also we might properly refer to the manufacture of wall 
paper, as once among the prominent interests of the locality. In 1866 
William Stewart and Daniel Carmichael began the manufacture of straw 
wrapping paper, but after two years they changed their machinery to 
enable them to make brown hanging paper. In 1874 this manufacture 
was discontinued, and thereafter the product of the mill was white hang- 
ing, or wall paper. The factory is located on Forest avenue. In 1885 
Mr. Carmichael purchased his partner's interest in the business, and 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 21 1 

conducted the mills until about three years ago. On account of mis- 
fortune the works were closed for a time, but are now again in opera'ion 
by creditors of the former proprietor. 

The manufacture of linseed oil has been one of the prominent indus- 
tries of Amsterdam for many years ; in fact, it is the pioneer among the 
multitude that has been from time to time established. The business 
of the present firm of Kellogg & Miller had its inception in the little 
factory started in the village by Supplina Kellogg in 1824, nearly sev- 
enty years ago. He could only make five or six barrels a day, while 
the present factory makes six thousand gallons in the same time. The 
extensive works of the present firm includes si.xteen large buildings, 
and they employ one hundred men. 

In 1849 Mr. Kellogg, the founder of this enterprise, died and was 
succeeded in the business by his sons, John and Loren Kellogg. Five 
years later the last named son died, and James A. Miller took his place 
in the firm. In 1872 George Kellogg, son of John, became a partner in 
the firm, and in 1879 Loren, another son, also became interested in 
the business. The works of the firm are located on Church street oppo- 
site Cornell street. 

The same year (1852) there was started in Amsterdam a factory for 
the manufacture of burial caskets, by L. C. Shuler. At a later day the 
works were enlarged to meet the demands of their products, and the 
result was the establishment of one of the large industries of the city.. 
The firm of I. C. Shuler was known in local business circles for many 
years. The Shuler Manufacturing Company, organized in 1888, w;is 
the outgrowth of the business established by Isaac C. Shuler. The 
company manufactures portable earthen sepulcher vaults. Its capital 
stock is $50,000. 

The firm of Davis W. Shuler & Son are manufacturers of carriage, 
wagon and truck springs, having extensive buildings on Church street. 
This business was originally established in 1856 by Shuler, Delamater & 
Viele, but after a few years the senior member of the present firm 
became its sole proprietor. In 1880, however, William S. Shuler was 
made a partner with his father, the firm being Davis W. Shuler & Son. 
They employ in the several departments of their factory 150 men. 

The manufacture of brooms and brushes has for many years occupied 
a prominent position among the industries of Amsterdam and its local- 



212 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ity. Among the early factories of note were those of J. D. Blood & 
Son, G. W. Bronson and Henry Herrick & Co. The first mentioned 
firm is still in business, being at present J. D. Blood & Co., the members 
of which are John D., James and Frank A. Blood, whose factories are 
located at 25-29 Walnut and 15-19 Washington streets. The later 
members designated the concern conducted by Henry Herrick and 
Avery Howard as Henry Herrick & Co. The G. W. Bronson steam 
broom factory was located on Cedar street. 

The firm of Lewis Peek & Co., the members of which are Lewis Peek 
and P2dward J. Hand, was organized in 1885, and in the same year 
built the factory on Pine street, but the original members of this firm 
were Mr. Peek and W. C. Noonan. 

The first foundry in Amsterdam was established in 1837, by Bell 
Marcellus, and was purchased in 1842 by H. S. McElwain, the latter 
continuing the business for many j'ears. The works on Livingston street 
are now operated by the firm of W. & H. C. McElwain. The other 
representatives for the iron foundry and machine shop industr\- in this 
city at the present time are the Inman Manufacturing Company on 
Spring street ; the Perkins Foundry Company on Bridgestreet; Smeallie 
Brothers on Livingston street, and P.. Tift'any & Son on Spring street. 

Incidental to, but in no manner connected with the iron industries of 
the city, are the wood workers, which in all their varied branches form 
an important element of local manufacture. It is difficult, however, 
to classify them or to ascertain their origin or extent, and we must there- 
fore be content in naming those now in operation Francis Gilliland's 
Sons is a leading firm engaged in the manufacture of sash, doors, blinds, 
having also a planing mill at 39 Bridge street. Henry C. Grime has a 
similar factory on Erie street (5th Ward), as also has the firm of Servoss 
& De Graff at 288 F"lorida avenue. L. & G. S. Banta on West Main 
street, and Charles H. Deal at 52 Divison street carry on shoddy 
mills. 

Societies and Orders — Artisan Lodge No. 84 F. & A. M. was or- 
ganized in pursuance of a charter granted by the Grand Lodge in 1824, 
and held its first meeting in the shop of W. N. Chase on the river bank 
near the foot of Pearl street. The lodge, however, soon afterwards be- 
came extinct, and was not revived until 1854, when its original number 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 213 

■was likewise restored. It holds semi-monthly meetings in Masonic 
Hall, Sanford Homestead Building. The present officers are as follows : 
Davis S. Dunlap, W. M. ; Thomas Mansfield, S. W. ; Wilbur E. Jen- 
kins, K. W. ; Stephen Messenger, treasurer ; Almartin T. Young, jr., 
secretary ; Julius W. Kimball, S D. ; Martin J. Serviss, J. D. ; E. 
Watson Gardiner. S. M. C. ; Oscar K. Potter, J. M. C. ; Robert N. 
Clark, chaplain, F. V. Miller, tyler. 

Amsterdam Charter No. 8i, R. A. M. was chartered Riarch 26, 1866, 
with nineteen original members, only five of whom are now living. John 
D. Serviss was the first high priest. The Royal Arch Masons of the 
city now number 75, and meet on the second and fourth Mondays of 
each month in Masonic Hall. The present officers of the Chapter are 
as follows: George R. Hannon, M. E. H. P.; W, Max Reid, E. K. ; 
Herbert Shuttleworth, E. S. ; J. M. Michaelson, G. H. ; Joseph Perkins, 
P. S. ; M. W. Reid, R. A. C. ; Charles D. Austin, M. 3d V. ; James 
Nichol, M. 2d v.; Edward McDonnell, M. 3d V.; C. Van Buren 
treasurer ; A. T. Young, jr., secretary ; John K. Warnick, W. R. Van- 
derveer, A. V. M. Smith, trustees. 

Mirsola Grotto, No. 5, M. O. V. P. E. R. of Amsterdam was organ- 
ized April I, 1892, having twenty-four charter members. The present 
officers are Edward J. Perkins, Monarch ; M. J. .Serviss, chief justice ; 
James Nichols, master of ceremonies; Robert N. Clark, secretary; 
George B. Stover, Edward L. Smith, William Kaufman, trustees; George 
R. Hannon, orator; George E. Stevens, alchemist; Charles A. Lutton, 
marshal; Seward Kline, captain of guard ; Fred V. Miller, tyler. 

Amsterdam Lodge, No. 184, I. O. O. F. was instituted January 29, 
184S, and in 1859 surrendered the charter, but the lodge was revived 
July 22, 1866, and is now a large organization, having about two hun- 
dred and fifty members. The officers are as follows: Frank Thayer, 
N. G. ; J. F. D. Vedder, V. G.; James Deal, secretary; Philip Tomp- 
kins, treasurer ; Henry Becker, John Crouse, J. N. Smith, trustees. 

Guttenburg Lodge (German), No. 220, I. O. O. F. was instituted in 
November, 1859, and now has about 90 members. The officers are as 
follows: Louis Dummer, sen., N. G. ; Frederick Rogge, V. G. ; Louis 
Dummer, jr., rec. secretary; Fred Doer, treasurer; O. Rust, cor. sec- 
retary. 



214 niSTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Montgomery Lodge, No. 47, I. O. O. F., was instituted January 7, 
1887, and has a present membership of about 145. The officers are as 
follows: Herman Travernick, N. G. ; Luman Folinsbee, V. G.; Jacob 
Brazie, secretary ; Charles H. Fifield. treasurer. 

Oak Leaf Rebekah Lodge, No. 123, L O. O. F., was instituted 
November 22, 1890, and now has a membership of forty-five. The 
officers are Clara M. Duel!, N, G. ; Minnie Brazie, V. G.; Edward Mur- 
ray, rec. secretary ; Lydia Fox, financial secretary; Mrs. William Hovey, 
treasurer; Annie Johnson, Warden; Jacob Brazie, chaplain. 

Amsterdam Canton, No. 20, Patriarchs Militant, was mustered into ser- 
vice May 14, 1886, and has a uniformed membership of 36, and an hon- 
orary membership of 10. The present officers are as follows: B. F. 
Olivar, D. D. G. M. ; Jacob Brazie, chaplain ; Edward J. Murray, lieu- 
tenant ; David E. Morse, ensign; Walter V. Barber, clerk; Henry 
Becker, treasurer. 

Star Encampment, No. ^}, was instituted in November, 1869, and 
now has about 92 members. 

E. S. Young Post, No. 33, G. A. R., was organized April 10, 1875, 
with 20 charter members. The present officers are as follows : Benja- 
min Thrackrah, commander ; Thomas H. O'Neil, sen. vice commander ; 
John H. Deal, jun., vice-commander ; Charles N. Wells, adjutant; 
Michael Fitzjames, quartermaster; J. L. Peck, O. of D. ; George Brown,, 
O. of G. ; William Ryland, chaplain. 

Post A. H. Terry, No. 300, G. A. R., was chartered in No\ember, 
1890, having 21 original members. The present membership is 54. 
The officers are as follows : John S. Maxwell, commander ; William S. 
Wood, sen., vice- commander ; Henry Deal, jun., vice-commander; 
Abraham Cass, adjutant; Fred W. Rawdon, quartermaster ; George 
W. Dunham, chaplain ; Richard J. Powers, surgeon ; Alonzo P. Slocum, 
officer of the day ; Jesse Barnet, officer of the guard. 

In addition to the orders and societies, that have been mentioned in 
this chapter we may appropriately refer briefly to some of the many 
others of the same class which have been organized in the city. We 
may further add that Amsterdam has a greater variety and number of 
social, charitable, and beneficiary societies than many cities even of 
greater population, so many, indeed, that we can hardly do more than. 



CITY OF AMSTERDAM. 215 

make a brief allusion to them. We feel constrained, however, to men- 
tion the names of some of these societies to show that the compiler de- 
sired to assist in any benefit that may be thus derived. 

Mohawk Valley Lodge, No. 208, A. O. U. W. ; J. Wicks, P. M. W. ; 
Kennyetto Tribe, No. no, I. O. of R. M., A. R. Gardiner, sachem; 
Mohawk Assembly, No. 243, R. S. ofG. F., W. H. Smith, R. ; Amster- 
dam Lodge, No. 291, I. O. F. S. of I., Isaac Mark, president. 

Knights of Pythias are numerous in this city, their organizations be- 
ing Chuctenunda Lodge, No. 100; Woodbine Lodge, No. 250; Berlina 
Lodge, No. 298, and Austin Division, No. 14, Uniform Rank. 

Thersia Council, No. 86, Order of Chosen Friends; Lodge No. lOi, 
Order of Elks; Amsterdam Council, No. 1259, Royal Arcanum ; Clan 
McAlpine No. 60, Scotch Society Order ; The Sons of St. George, The 
Order of Iron Hall, and the Order of American Mechanics, are also 
among the society organizations of the city. 

The temperance societies are Kimball Lodge, No. 990; Star Lodge, 
No. 860 ; Tent of Rechabites ; St. Mary's Temperance Guild ; Woman's 
Christian Temperance Union, and Amsterdam Commandery, No. 107, 
P. F. Y. B. O. 

The military organizations are the Forty-sixth Separate Company, 
N. G. S. N. Y., organized July 15, 1877; Post Young, No. 33, G. A. 
R. ; Post A. H. Terry, No. 300, G. A. R. ; Camp A. H. De Graff, No. 
18, S. of v.; Camp W. E. Cross, No. 154, S. of V., and Terry Post, 
Woman's Relief Corps, G. A. R. 

The German literary and musical societies are the Amsterdam Lieder- 
kranz, and Turnverin Fortschritt. 

The Roman Catholic religious societies are the Holy Angels' Sodality, 
St. Aloysius' Sodality, and the Young Ladies' Sodality, each connected 
with St. Mary's church ; the Altar Society, St. Joseph Benevolent So 
ciety, St. Paul's Sodality, St. Stanislaus' Society, and the Young Ladies' 
Sodality, each connected with St. Joseph's church. 



FIISTORY OF MOXTGOMERT COUNTV. 



CHAPTER XX. 

THE TOWN OK MINDEN. 

THIS is the southwest corner town of the county, and lies on tlie 
south bank of the Mohawk. Its boundaries are formed by the 
Mohawk on the north, Canajoharie on the east, Schoharie county on the 
south and Herkimer on the west. The surface of Minden consists 
chiefly of an undulating upland with steep declivities bordering upon 
the streams. Otsquaga creek, which rises in the southwest part of the 
town, flows in a northeasterly direction, receiving the waters of Otsquene 
creek (its principal tributary), a mile north of the centre of the town, 
and emptying into the Mohawk at Fort Plain. Otsquaga is derived 
from the Mohawk word " Oxsquago," signifying " under the bridge." 
The other streams of the town are of minor importance and generally 
flow in an east or northerly direction, also emptying into the Otsquaga. 
The soil throughout the greater portion of the town is a fine quality of 
gravelly and clayey loam, and is well adapted to grazing. In dairy 
products Minden has always been in advance of many of the neighbor- 
ing towns, and the cultivation of hops has also been an important feat- 
ure in agricultural pursuits. 

Much interest is added to the history of Minden by the fact that it 
contains the remains of one of those ancient fortifications which are not 
uncommon in central and western New York, but are rare in the east- 
ern part of the state. They indicate that the country was inhabited 
long prior to the advent of the Indians, and with the exception of simi- 
lar remains recently discovered in Ephratah, they are the farthest east 
thus far discovered even by the geologist. They are situated four miles 
south of Fort Plain, on a promontory in the Otsquaga valley one hundred 
feet above the stream, the declivities being almost precipitous. Across 
this promontory at its narrowest part, is a curved line of breastworks 
two hundred and forty feet in length, inclosing an area of about seven 
acres. A gigantic pine, six feet in diameter, stands upon one end of 



TOWN OF MINDEN. 217 

the embankment, giving additional proof that the work must have been 
of great antiquity. ^ 

Evidence of Indian occupancy, such as arrowheads and domestic im- 
plements, are found in almost every part of the town, which is not sur- 
prising when one remembers that manj' of the most atrocious barbar- 
ities were committed in this vicinity both during the French war and 
the revolution. Minden was formed from Canajoharie, March 2, 1798, 
and at that time included part of Danube (Herkimer county), which was 
taken off in 181 7. Tlie present town, which contains 27,054 acres, in- 
cluding sections of many early patents : Bleecker patent, 675 acres, 
granted to Rutger and Nicholas Bleecker, August 14, 1730; Bleecker 
patent, 4,300 acres, granted to Rutger and Nicholas Bleecker, J. De- 
lancey and J. Haskall, September 22, 1729; Glen patent, 6,000 acres, 
granted to Jacob Glen and others, August 21, 1753; Gunterman tract, 
905 acres, granted to Coonradt Gunterman, October 15, 1753 ; Herki- 
mer patent, 2,324 acres, granted to J. J. and H. Herkimer, April 13, 
1752; Lansing patent, 6,000 acres, granted to Jacob Lansing and 
others, June 23, 1753; Livingston patent, 20,000 acres, granted to 
Philip Livingston and nineteen others, February 10, 1762 ; Otsquaga 
patent, 4,300 acres, granted to Rutger Bleecker and others, Septem- 
ber 22, 1729; Otsquaga patent, 1,637 acres, granted to Weiser, Law- 
yer and Wagener, July 8, 1725 ; Van Home patent, 8,000 acres, 
granted to Abraham Van Home and three others, November 13, 
1 731; and the Windecker's patent, 2,000 acres, granted to Hartnian 
Windecker, November 12, 1731. 

Minden, like Canajoharie, was settled by Germans, the earliest com- 
ing from Schoharie. A majority of these located in a district still 
called " Dutchtown," the name being derived from the first inhabi- 
tants. Some of these hardy pioneers also settled across the river in 
Palatine, and on both sides their numbers were gradually increased 
by immigration, until nearly the entire territory bordering on the Mo • 
hawk (afterwards termed the " Canajoharie district"), was peopled by 
German immigrants. This district extended along the river for some 
twenty miles, including in its western part the former home of Gen- 
eral Herkimer. Among these early settlers were the Devendorfl's, 

' Smithsonian Contributions, Vol. II, Art. 6. 
28 



218 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Wagners, Moyers, Bellingers, Sprakeis, Kellers, and others whose 
names are still found in the same locality. 

Henry Hayse, a German, taught the first school in Minden, the les- 
sons being in the language of the fatherland. Isaac Paris built the first 
grist-mill prior to the revolution, and William Seeber kept the first store, 
probably about 1750. As this was more than a quarter of a century 
after the first white settlement, it will be seen how well qualified those 
sturdy Germans must have been to procure subsistence in such a wil- 
derness region. A large stone dwelling was erected in Minden in 1738, 
for the sons of Governor Clark, but it was soon abandoned, having ob- 
tained the unfortunate reputation of being haunted, and very early in 
the present century was given away on condition that it should be de- 
molished. 

John Abeel, an Indian trader, settled in the town in 1748. In his 
previous intercourse with the Indians he had married the daughter of a 
Seneca chief, the ceremonj' being after the Indian fashion. A child of 
this marriage was the famous chief, Cornplanter. Abeel afterward mar- 
ried a white woman, and at the beginning of the revolution was living 
on his farm. During the invasion of October, 1780, he was taken pris- 
oner by a band of Indians, and, while momentarily expecting death, 
Cornplanter addressed him as father, thus securing his safety. He was 
given the liberty of choosing either to accompany the Indians under the 
protection of his son or to return to his white family. Much credit is 
due him for choosing the latter, and after hostilities had ceased, Corn- 
planter visited him, and was received with much hospitality. Corn- 
planter is described as being of magnificent proportions and manly bear- 
ing. He died at his residence in Pennsylvania, March 7, 1836 Stone 
(in his life of Brant) says that Cornplanter was more than one hundred 
years old at the time of his death, but Mr. Webster, of Fort Plain (a 
descendant of John Abeel), has made the statement that the latter did 
not make his appearance in the Indian country until 1748, and that 
Cornplanter was born about 1750. If this statement is correct, the 
chief's age would have been about thirty when he accompanied the ex- 
pedition that captured his father, and only sixty- four when he died. 

The early settlers of Minden suffered many heart-rending cruelties 
from the savages during the French and Indian war, and some of these 



TOWN OF MINDEN. 219 

barbarities are almost too horrible for belief. Near the beginning of the 
French war (probably not far from the year 1755), John Markell, who 
had married Anna Timmerman, daughter of a pioneer settler at St. 
Johnsville, located in the western part of Minden. In 1757, only two 
years afterward, this unfortunate man, together with his wife and child, 
became the victims of one of those inhuman murders which so often 
stained the frontier record. Canadian Indians in small parties had of- 
ten raided the Mohawk country during the war, and on this occasion 
they attacked the Markells. John and his wife left their house, she 
carrying in her arms an infant child. After having proceeded a short 
distance a band of hostile warriors suddenly appeared only a few rods 
distant and making directl)' towards them. Markell saw at a glance the 
danger threatening both himself and family, and knowing that escape 
was impossible, he exclaimed, " Anna, unsere zeit ist aus " (Anna, our 
time is up). His words proved sadly true, for in a moment a bullet 
passed through his body and penetrated his wife. To him the shot 
proved fatal and both fell to the ground, but Mrs. Markell, though not 
killed, had the presence of mind to feign death. In an other moment 
the band of warriors had surrounded them ; Markell was quickly toma- 
hawked and scalped and the Indians were preparing to repeat this bar- 
barity upon the prostrate woman, when one of the party spoke a few 
words in the Indian tongue, construed by Mrs. Markell to mean, " Bet- 
ter knock her on the head." " No," came a reply from another, 
" squaw's dead now." Then without further controversy the scalping 
knife was quickly drawn around the unfortunate woman's head, and the 
Indian, seizing the scalp between his teeth, quickly tore it off. An- 
other one of the bloodthirsty savages snatched the infant from the 
ground where it lay crying, and with one swing dashed its brains against 
a tree. Having thus finished tlieir butchery, the savages proceeded on 
their journey, leaving all of their victims for dead. It does not seem 
within the scope of human power to enact the role of death so perfectly 
as this remarkable woman did even through such a soul-trying ordeal. 
As soon as the murderers were out of sight, Mrs. Markell made her 
way to a place of safety and was fortunately soon in the hands of 
friends. She fully recovered, and within a year or two married Chris- 
tian Getman, of Ephratah, and lived to relate this wonderful escape to 



220 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

several succeeding generations. Her death occurred in April, 1821, at 
which time she was supposed to be eighty- five years of age, fixing her 
birth about the year 1736. According to these dates she would have 
been twenty-one years old at the time of her terrible experience with 
the savages. Among her six children, born after her marriage to 
Christian Getman, was Peter, the oldest son, who was a pensioner of 
the revolution. 

In common with other towns in tlie Mohawk valley, the settlements 
in Minden were ravaged by Brant and Johnson in 1870. At the time 
of Brant's incursion the men were mostly absent, and the women were 
shut up in the forts for safety. There were several of these forts located 
near Fort Plain. The fort which gives the place its name was erected 
on the summit of a hill half a mile northwest of the village. It 
was probably built under the direction of Colonel Willett and was con- 
sidered one of the strongest fortifications in the vallc}-. It has been 
erroneously stated that this fort was built during the French war, by a 
French engineer. Colonel Willett, however, was its commander several 
years and undoubtedly directed its construction. At the time of its 
erection, Lawrence Gross was a boy living near by. He states that the 
fort received its name " because, from the eminence upon which it 
stood, there was such a plain or prospective view." Mr. Gross also 
said that the workmen who had its erection in charge were permitted 
to name the fort. It was elevated more than fifty feet above the Mo- 
hawk and its palisade enclosed aboutone-third of an acre.with an entrance 
upon the southeasterly side. In the diagonally opposite corners of this 
enclosure were erected two small block-houses each containing cannon 
and projecting far enough to command two sides of the fort. Within a 
distance of two or three rods, on the side of the hill was a living spring 
which was a great boon to the garrison. It is not known who was first 
in command, but Colonel Willett was certainly there during the sum- 
mer of 1780 and 1 78 1, and then occupied the most eastern of three or 
four little huts built on the side of the hill below the pickets, and within 
a short distance of the spring. Their erection was required by the lim- 
ited amount of room within the palisades, which was far too small to 
accommodate the tenements which sheltered the families that sought 
protection. 



TOWN OF MINDEN. 221 

When the depredations and outrages committed by the Indians and 
tories, under the command of Brant, Butler and Johnson, had become 
so frequent and horrible, it became necessary to increase the accommo- 
dations of Fort Plain and also to strengthen its fortifications. It was at 
this tiine that the octagonal block-house was erected there, having three 
stories, each projecting over the one below. In the lower story was a 
cannon, which was fired to notify the people when danger was at hand. 
Loopholes dotted its several sides and were used for musketry firing. 
This block- liouse, which stood on a knoll some twenty rods southwest 
of the palisaded enclosure, is believed to be the first of its kind on the 
early frontier. One writer has confounded this fort with another called 
" Fort Plank," assuming that they were one and the same. This, how- 
ever, was not the case, for the latter was a distinct fortification, situated 
nearly four miles southwest of P'ort Plain. 

Captain Robert McKean, a partisan officer of acknowledged merit 
from the Cherry Valley settlement, and who received a fatal wound in 
the New Dorlach or Sharon battle (in 1780), was brought to Fort Plain 
on a litter at his own request, but he died in a day or two and was 
buried near the fort. It has been stated that Captain McKean died 
and was buried in Freysbush, but the late Lawrence Gross, whose 
father was also a captain in the Sharon battle, said that he was present 
at the interment of Captain McKean's remains, and that they were dis- 
interred and buried with military honors, on the brow of the hill, in front 
of the block-house. This took place directly after the completion of 
the latter, which is supposed to have been in the spring of 1781. Since 
the middle of the century a farm road has been made along the crest of 
the hill, beginning near the site of this historic fort, and the knoll upon 
which it stood has been considerably leveled by the plow. 

Fort Plank, which was another historic place of defence, occupied, as 
has been stated, a commanding position on elevated ground four miles 
southwest of Fort Plain and was originally the residence of a respectable 
German family whose name it bore. A number of the descendants of 
the Plank family are residents of the Mohawk valley at the present day. 
The fort comprised a block- house and also a palisade, which surrounded 
a dwelling known for many years after as the Chauncey House place, 
and in later years owned by Reuben Failing, and occupied by his son 



222 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY CODNTV. 

Joseph. The fortification of the place is said to have been made in 
1777, one year after the erection of Forts Plain, Herkimer and Dayton, 
and it is very probable that a number of soldiers were constantly 
stationed there during the war. Many families in the adjoining coun- 
try were compelled to flee to the fort for safety, the signal of danger 
being the firing of the cannon. An interesting story is told by Jeptha 
R. Simms, of the pluck of a man who had been captured by the Indians 
and yet finally escaped and reached Fort Plain in safety. He was taken 
prisoner in the neighborhood of the fort in 1781, and when night came 
his savage captors, seven in number, halted in a deserted log tenement. 
After cooking and eating a scanty supper the Indians ranged them- 
selves on the floor of the cabin and talked of their recent raid, com- 
plaining that but little plunder had been secured and but one prisoner. 
Thus filled with dissatisfaction at their exploits, they resolved to hold 
a powwow on the following morning, kill and scalp the prisoner and 
return to the Mohawk where they expected richer booty. All this 
must have been indeed harrowing to the prisoner, who understood per- 
fectly every word the Indians had uttered. 

At length the Indians laid down upon the floor, not, however, until 
they had securely bound and fastened their captive with cords and also 
placed him between two of their number. The savages soon appeared 
to be fast asleep, although the despairing white man, prone upon the 
ground, in the dimly lighted room, had no means of knowing whether 
or not some one was serving as sentinel. For him sleep was out of the 
question and his mind was filled with fevered visions of the approaching 
torture he was doomed soon to receive. In moving one of his hands 
about upon the floor, in the midst of his unhappy thoughts, it accident- 
ally touched a piece of broken window glass. 

In a moment the way of escape presented itself to his mind. There 
was no time to meditate upon the risk of being discovered ; death in 
any case seemed to stare him in the face. Firmly grasping the piece 
of glass he began rapidly drawing its sharp edges across the rope that 
bound his breast and thighs. Twice he faltered, not knowing whether 
the keen eye of the foe might not then be fixed upon him. Twice he 
resumed his efforts to sever the bonds that kept him captive and at last 
the remaining strand parted and he sat upright and gazed about him. 



TOWN OF MINDEN. 2iJ3 

Not a sound or movement could he hear or see, except the heavy 
breathing of his sleeping enemies. 

He then approached the door and cautiously stepped outside. Be- 
ing aware of the fact that the Indians had left a watch dog near the 
entrance, he made a dash and ran across the clear field to the woods 
some twenty rods distant, not, however, without making his presence 
known to the dog, which followed close, barking loudly. As the 
poor fugitive neared the forest the Indians, who had by this time began 
the pursuit, fired at him. Just then his foot caught in a root and he 
fell, thereby thus escaping the volley which at that very moment passed 
over his head. Crawling rapidly into the woods lie discovered a hollow 
log in which he secreted himself, and finally escaped and reached Fort 
Plain in safety. 

Fort Clyde was another palisaded enclosure, which occupied high 
ground on the farm of Henry H. Nellis, about two miles southeast of 
the village of Fort Plain. It was probably built in 1777 and received 
its name from Colonel Clyde, a brave and judicious officer, who came 
from Cherry Valley and rendered valuable services throughout the war. 
It is highly probable that General Washington, when on his journey 
from New York to the frontier posts in 1782, stopped for a short time 
at Fort Clyde. He went from Fort Plain to Cherry Valley, thus pass- 
ing this fort on the way. As a reward for valuable services. Colonel 
Clyde was afterwards appointed sheriff of Montgomery county by 
Governor Clinton, who acted upon the suggestion of General Washing- 
ton, that the colonel should be remembered for his valiant services. 

Among the other palisaded enclosures, which served as places of 
safety for defenceless families at that time of peril, was Fort Willett, 
situated a little more than four miles from Fort Plain, on land owned 
during later years by William Zimmerman. It was probably completed 
during the fall of 1780, under the direction of Colonel Willett, who, 
when the work was finished, rode out with a squad of men to take an 
inspection of it. Expressing himself as much pleased with the fortifi- 
cation (which comprised a number of huts and two block houses sur- 
rounded by a palisade), he said : " You have a nice little fort here ; what 
do you call it ?" He was told that as yet it had received no name, and 
it was suggested that the colonel should select one. " Well " replied 



224 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

he, " this is one of the nicest little forts on the frontier, and you may- 
call it after me if you please." This suggestion at once met the approval 
of the local inhabitants who greeted the name of Fort Willett with a 
cheer. 

Situated between Fort Herkimer and Fort Plain, and some seven or 
eight miles from the latter, was the house of Johannes Windecker, a 
German and strong friend of the colonists. Early in the war his house 
was palisaded and called Fort Windecker. Inside the enclosure was 
also erected a small block-house which was supplied with a signal gun, 
and in this convenient military post many families sought refuge when 
the torch and firebrand of the dreaded Brant and Johnson scoured the 
Schoharie and Mohawk valleys. Thus, during the latter part of the 
revolution, Minden contained five strongholds of defence, in which were 
sheltered many of the ancestors of those families which are now so 
prominent in the same vicinity. 

Without entering into the details of border warfare, it seems appro- 
priate to mention the names of a few of the old Minden patriots who 
were conspicuous for their services in the patriotic cause. Among 
these were several members of the Bellinger family (Frederick, Chris- 
tian, Jacob and Peter), the last three captured by the Indians, Jacob and 
Peter being tomahawked and scalped, while Christian was placed in 
bondage as a slave and held three years. Castina Bellinger was taken 
to Canada by Indians when three years old and lived there until grown 
into womanhood, marrying and raising a familj-. John Brookman, was 
carried to Canada by the Indians and while there was compelled to run 
the gauntlet, while John Dievendorff, escaping after two years captivity, 
returned home in safety. Henry Dievendorff was shot at Oriskany by 
an Indian, but was immediately avenged by William Cox, who killed 
the Indian with a bullet. Jacob Dievendorff did excellent service and 
was made captain, holding the rank until the close of the war. We also 
add the names of a few Minden men who passed through some thrilling 
experiences during the revolution. Among these were George Davis, 
John Dillenbeck, John Peter Duncker and George, his brother. Major 
John Eisenlord, Cornelius Flint, Peter Flagg, Henry J. Failing, John 
Gremps, and his brother Peter, Christian Hufnail, Peter H. House, 
Samuel Howe, Rudolph Keller, Peter and John Lambert, Adam and John 



TOWN OF MINDEN. 225- 

Lipe, George Lambert, Moses Lowell, Francis Lighthall, Isaac Miller, 
John Miller, Jacob Matthews, Jacob and Henry Moyer ; Nicholas Pace, 
John Roof, Henry and Peter Sitts. Barbara Schenck, and Mrs. Dr. 
Frame; Peter Snell, Henry Sanders, Peter and John Snyder, Henry 
Seeber, Henry Timmerman, Giles Van Vest, Nicholas Van Slyke, Jacob 
Wagner, Joseph H. Wiles, Henry Waffle, Jacob Walrath, George You- 
ker, Adam, John and Nancy Yorden, Christian Young and Henry 
Galler. 

During these war times the inhabitants could neither establish mills, 
schools or churches, as all such buildings invited the incursions of the 
enemy. Hence it is remarkable then that the early settlers engaged in 
traffic, even to a limited extent. It is found, however, that during the 
brief peace that intervened between the F"rench war and the revolution, 
some shrewd traders engaged in bartering with the Indians for furs and 
skins, and also for ginseng, and not a few of these early traders settled 
in Minden. 

William Seeber, a German, kept the first store of which there is any 
definite knowledge, in the town. It was located near the Sand Hill 
church on the place occupied in latter years by Adam Lipe, and was 
opened about 1750. Seeber was a major of militia and, together with 
his son Rudolph and Captain Jacob W., fought in the battle of Oriskany, 
all of them receiving fatal wounds. 

After the revolution Isaac Paris was the first merchant in the town. 
He began trading in 1786 in a large house erected by himself, in 
which he lived and did business. It was located in Fort Plain, being 
afterward known as the " Bleecker House," and was built of heavy 
timber. Paris was engaged in trade on the Mohawk, transporting his 
wares on boats, and was known as a very fair and honest dealer. In 
the Gazetteer of 1824, Spafford, speaking of the town of Paris, Oneida 
county, refers to the generous Paris in the following words : " This 
town was named in honor of a Mr. Paris, at the request of the inhabi- 
tants. In 1789, 'the year of scarcity,' which some of us well remem- 
ber, when the settlements in this quarter were in a feeble, infant state, 
Isaac Paris, then a merchant in Fort Plain, on the Mohawk, supplied 
the inhabitants with Virginia corn on a liberal credit, and took in paj'- 
ment, ginseng, and anything he could get, supplying our necessities in 



226 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

kindest manner, for which in gratitude, when the town was erected, we 
requested to have it named Paris." Spafford adds, " Traits of this char- 
acter I love to record." 

Conrad Gansevoort, who came to iMinden from Schenectady about 
1790, was the next merchant in the town. His place of business was a 
combination store and dwelling which he erected at the foot of Sand 
Hill, on the farm more recently owned by Seeber Lipe. Gansevoort 
remained in Minden for nearly twenty years, and then retiring with a 
competency, returned to his former home in Schenectady. Contempo- 
rary with Gansevoort were the three Oothout brothers, Garrett, Jonas 
and Volkert, who came also from Schenectady and located about a 
mile and a quarter west of the village of Fort Plain. There on the south 
side of the river road, they erected a lage two story building used joint- 
ly as a store and dwelling. One corner of the old structure, which was 
some thirty feet in length, was undermined by the construction of the 
canal. Garrett, the oldest of the three brothers, although blind, was 
remarkably shrewd and could instantly tell the value of a coin by the 
touch. The firm did a large business for those days, wholesaling some 
goods to less extensive merchants, and sending large quantities of wheat 
down the river in boats to Albany. Jonas lived in the store building. 
He married Maria Fox, and had two daughters, Lydia and Maria. The 
former married Peter J. Wagner, and is remembered as a most esti- 
mable character. Another brother of the Oothouts, Abraham by name, 
was not engaged in the mercantile trade, but settled near them on a 
farm. 

Robert McFarlan, who came to Minden from Paulet (Vermont), be- 
gan business a few rods from the Sand Hill Reformed Dutch church, 
on the opposite side of the road, about 1798. He was a remarkably 
able business man, and was generally liked and esteemed. He married 
the daughter of Major House, an influential resident, and this alliance 
undoubtedly added greatly to his business. His genial ways and gentle- 
manly bearing gained him an entrance into the society of the period, and 
he also held the rank of colonel of militia. His name is commemorated 
on a slab in the old burying-ground of the Sand Hill church, which 
be?rs these words: "In memory of Robert McFarlan, Esq., who de- 
parted this life July 14, 1813, in the forty-ninth year of his age." 



TOWN OF MINDEN. 227 

Henry M. Bleecker, a young Albanian, who had served as clerk 
for Conrad Gansevoort, succeeded to the business about 1808. He 
died young and David Lipe.and Rufus Firman then carried on the 
Gansevoort store. They are supposed to have been the last merchants to 
occupy it. Among other merchants who were engaged in trade early 
in the present century may be mentioned. John Lipe. Abraham 
Dievendorff, Henry, his brother ; John Dygert and John Roth. 

To the churches of Minden are unquestionably due much of the 
social development, and the lessons of the early preachers have in- 
fluenced the character of later generations Hence tlie writer may 
properly here review the early Minden churches, giving as accurately 
as possible their location and date. 

The earliest church within the present limits of the town, was erected 
in 175*^ 3nd known as the Reformed Dutch church of Canajoharie It 
stood on Sand Hill, a short distance above the Abeel place on the 
Dutchtown road, and was burned during the invasion of Brant in 1780. 
The first preacher was Rev. Abraham Rosencrantz, who remained eight 
years, and conducted services entirely in German. Dominie Gros, who 
was in charge .of the congregation at the time the church was destroyed, 
afterward preached in a barn on the William Lipe farm. This old barn 
was torn down to give place to a new one in 1859. At the close of 
the war a much better church was erected on the same site, being also 
constructed of wood, and services were continued there until about 
1 8 16. This church is described as being " graced with a steeple with- 
out a bell," and having galleries upon three sides. It was built by 
Peter March for the sum of one thousand pounds. The death of Gen- 
eral Washington was observed in this church in the latter part of De- 
cember, 1799, with solemn and impressive ceremonies. Among the 
ministers at this ancient church succeeding Pastor Rosencrantz were 
Rev. Ludwig Luppe, Rev. Mr. Kennige, Rev. J. F. Preffle, and from 
1788 to 1796 Rev. A. Christian Diedrich Peck. In 1796 came the Rev. 
Daniel Gros, who previous to that time had been a professor of moral 
philosophy in Columbia College. From 1800 to 1803 this church, to- 
gether with those at Canajoharie, Stone Arabia and Sharon, were sup- 
plied by the Rev. Isaac Labaugh. He was succeeded by Rev. J. I. 
Wack, a man of surpassing personal appearance, and who had filled the 



228 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

position of army chaplain during the war of i8i2. He remained until 
1816, and was " probably the last minister of the old Sand Hill church." 
In 1834 the society built a church in the village of Fort Plain. 

Two churches came into existence in the lower part of the town very 
early in the present century, their origin being due chiefly to the 
preaching of John Christopher Wieting, a native of Germany. While 
attending the university at the age of eighteen, he was pressed into the 
British service, and afterward made a prisoner at Saratoga. Resolving 
to become an American citizen, he settled at Greenbush, and later on 
moved to Minden, where he at once began preaching the doctrine of 
Martin Luther. As a result of his labors a church was established at 
" Squawke " (a contraction of Otsquaga), a small hamlet near the source 
of the creek bearing that name. Within seven or eight miles was an- 
other church located at Geissenberg, and dedicated about the year 
1706, Rev. Philip Krutz conducting the services. Both churches were 
under the spiritual guidance of Pastor Wieting until the time of his 
death, which occurred February 17, 18 17, when he was about fifty- 
eight years of age. With the cessation of the earnest work of Mr. 
Wieting, the churches became inactive and eventually fell into disuse, 
and all traces of both structures have long since passed away. 

At Fordsbush, in the southwest corner of the town, a Universalist 
church was organized in 1838 and the house of worship erected soon 
after was rebuilt and enlarged in 1874, the re-dedicatory services taking 
place in December of that year. Among the pastors of this church 
will be remembered John D. Hicks, D. C. Tomlinson, T. L. Harris, 
Adolphus Skinner, J. H. Harter, A. B. Grosh, O. K. Crosby, G. W. 
Skinner, T. L. Hathaway, Daniel Ballou, C. C. Richardson, H. H. 
Baker, W. G. Anderson, A. C. Barry, Q. L. Shinn, O. Cone, R. L. 
Lansing, E. E. Peck, J. W. Lamoine, James Ballou, and a number of 
others. The Lutheran church at Fordsbush has also had an active 
membership. " Mount Hope " Cemetery, at the same place is a pic- 
turesque burying-ground and ably managed by an association organized 
in May, 1862. It contains very many handsome monuments. 

At Freysbush, a small village situated on historic ground in the east- 
ern part of the town, and two miles south of Fort Plain, are also two 
churches, Lutheran and Methodist. The former was organized at the 




^'^Zury^ ( A^J- 




TOWN OF M INDEX. 229 

house of John Dunkel, June 28, 1834, the nine persons which formed 
the society at that time taking the name of " The Evangehcal Lutheran 
Church of Freysbush." The first elders were Daniel Ottman, Andrew 
Roof, and William Reagles. In 1835 the church became connected 
with the Hartwick Synod, having fifty- five members at the time. In 
1837 the church became a member of the Franckean Synod, wliich was 
formed that year, and in 1841 a house of worship was erected at a cost 
of about $1,000. It has subsequently been enlarged and remodeled, 
and in 1868 a parsonage was added at a cost of $2,500. During the 
first twenty years' existence of the Sunday-school, which was organized 
in 1 841, William Reagles was superintendent. 

Methodist services were held at Freysbush as early as 18 12, and 
since 1847 the church has been a separate charge. Prior to the last 
mentioned date it formed at different times a part of the Otsego, 
Litchfield, Sharon, and Canajoharie circuits. During the first seven- 
teen years of the society's history, it belonged to the Genesee Con- 
ference. In 1829 it entered the Oneida Conference, remaining there 
for forty years. It became a member of the Central New York Con- 
ference in 1869, and from 1873 until 1877 't belonged to the North- 
ern New York Conference. It then became a member of the Troy 
Conference, to which it still belongs. Rev. George Gary, who among 
others has filled this pastorate, will be remembered by a few of the 
older residents as a noble character and a good preacher, one whose 
memory is held in high esteem. The original house of worship used 
by this society was the first Methodist church built in the town of 
Minden. 

Passing from the religious history of the rural districts to that of 
Fort Plain, it now seems suitable to give a view of the organization of 
the town. 

Beginning with the formation of Minden, which took place March 2, 
1798, we find that all records pertaining to election of town officers, 
laying out roads, building bridges and schools, points of deep interest 
in the early history of a community, have been lost. We are thus pre- 
vented from chronicling the useful men who did important service in 
those early times. The records, however, from 18 10 to 1846 and also 
from i860 to the present time are complete, which enables us to give a 



230 HISTORY OF MONTaOMERY COUNTY. 

later list of the supervisors, which is as follows : Richard Van Home, 
1810-15; Felix Green, 1816-17; Isaac Ellwood, 1817-19; Robert 
Hall, 1820; Isaac Ellwood, 1821 ; George D. Ferguson, 1822-23; 
Henry D. Van Camp, 1824-25; Isaac Ellwood, 1826-27; Nathan Soule, 
1828-29; Henry Adams, 1830-31; Peter H. Keller, 1832; Daniel C. 
Ellis, 1833; William Abeel, 1834-35; William A. Haslett, 1836-37; 
John D. Zoller, 1838-40; James Diefendorf, 1841 ; John D. Zoller, 
1842 ; John H. Moyer, 1843 ; William Clark, 1844-46 ; Simeon Tingue, 
i860; Addis Dievendorfif, 1861-62; Henry Adams, 1863; James H. 
Congdon, 1864; Alfred J. Wagner, 1865-68; Jacob Zoller, 1869-72; 
Solomon Zoller, 1873-74; Peter D. Moyer, 1875-76; John D. Brook- 
man, 1877; Alonzo E. Hall, 1878-80; Michael R. Kelhi, 1881-84; 
Jacob J. Dievendorfif, 1885-87; Adam L. Failing, 1888-89; Henry 
Wagner, jr., 1890; R. Simon Bulger, 1891-92. 

Town clerks during corresponding periods have been as follows : 
Charles Pomeroy, 1810-13; James Joyce, 1814-15; Isaac Ellwood 
1816-17; George D. Ferguson, 1817; Peter Moyer, 1818-19; Adam 
Walradt, 1820-22; William H. Burwell, 1823; Peter H. Keller, 1824- 
26; Abraham Dievendorfif, 1827; John Diefendorf, 1828 ; John Zoller, 
1829-31; John H. Moyer, 1832; John Diefendorf, 1833; John D. 
Zoller, 1834-35; George D. Countryman, 1836-37; Moses Smith, 
1838; James Center, 1839-40; Solomon Smith, 1841-42; Clark L. 
Charlesworth, 1843; Joel Lipe, 1844-45 ; Gilbert Warner, 1846 ; Rob- 
ert Patten, i860; Dewitt C. Schults, 1861-62; Rufus Lipe, 1863; 
Walter Keller, 1864; George S. Dievendorfif, 1865 ; John E. Reid, 1866- 
6-] ; B. Steuben Hotaling, 1868 ; Menzo C. Reid, 1869 ; John P. Grant, 
1870-72; Alonzo E. Hall, 1873-74; Albert Diefendorf, 1875 ; Charles 
S. Tanner, 1876-77; Charles Beck, 1878; William Yerdon, 1879; 
Henry G. Martin, 1880-81 ; William H. Selwood, 1821 ; Charles E. 
Ehle, 1883 ; William H. Selwood, 1884; Charles E. Ehle, 1885 ; Charles 
E. Wick, 1886-87; George W. Packard, 1888; William F. Geesler, 
1889; Clarence J. Norton, 1890-91 ; F. A. Martin, 1892. 

The present ofificers of the town are as follows: Supervisor, R. Simon 
Bulger; town clerk, F. A. Martin; justices of the peace, Harvey Fikes, 
Daniel N. Place, Irving Moyer, Julius Pickard ; assessors, Jacob Zim- 
merman, Henry Glosser, William Dillenback ; auditors, Harvey Wick^ 



TOWN OF MINDEiX. 231 

Robert Smith; commissioner of highways, Isaac Zoller ; overseer of 
the poor, George L. Thurwood ; collector, Charles Walrath ; excise 
commissioners, Edward Brookman, Rufus Failing, John P. Casler. 

The present equalized valuation of real estate of Minden is $2,549,- 
865 ; personal estate, $421,750; on which the total state and county 
tax for 1S81 was $13,369.40. The town is divided into eighteen school 
districts, in which were taught 971 school children in 1891, out of a total 
of 1,206 living in the town. The total number of weeks kept was 639, 
and the average daily attendance during the year was 605. Twenty- 
five teachers were employed, the total amount of their salaries aggre- 
gating $8,812.32. The school property in the town, exclusive of 
libraries, is valued at $26,555. I" the libraries are 971 volumes the 
total value of which is $590. 

VILLAGE OF FORT PLAIN. 

Deep historic interest attaches to the village of Fort Plain, both from 
the fact of its having received the name of that celebrated military post 
(built in 1776) within half a mile of which the present village islocated, 
and also owing to the thrilling scenes which it witnessed. Much interest 
is also centered in the noted officers and heroes of the revolution, who 
were stationed in that palisaded enclosure. Mention has been made in 
preceding pages of a large stone house built within the town of Minden 
during the last century for the sons of Governor Clark. This dwelling 
was the first one erected upon the site of the village, and at the time 
it was built (1738) the surrounding forests shrouded the country for 
miles around in almost impenetrable gloom. Few white men indeed 
had then traversed the spot now occupied by the busy scenes of Fort 
Plain. It was in that year that William Johnson, then an obscure 
young man penetrated the wilderness to take charge of his uncle's lands 
at Fort Hunter. At such a time George Clark, governor of the colony 
of New York from 1736 to 1743, hoping to remove his sons from the 
temptations of the city, built this stately but solitary mansion. It is 
described as being a two story edifice with a hall passing through the 
center, on either side of which was a large square room. A broad 
stairway with white oak banisters and easy steps led to the second 
story. The stone used in the construction of the house, which had a 



232 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

frontage of nearly forty feet, and four chimneys of the same material, 
was taken from the bed of the neighboring creek. The governor es- 
tablished a landing on the river's bank, and it is supposed that frequent 
trips were made by himself and family, on which occasions visits were 
made to the distinguished families living along the river, such as the 
Herkimers, Foxes and Freys. It is also said that Governor Clark 
brought to his wilderness home a number of goats, and being allowed 
their liberty they strayed away and after diligent search were found 
upon an eminence several miles from Fort Plain, which ever after has 
been known as Geissenberg or goat hill. The Clarks, however, became 
discontented with their Mohawk home, and after a few years the entire 
family returned to New York. In 1807 Dr. Joshua Webster and Jon- 
athan Stickney built a tannery on the opposite side of the creek, and 
used the stone of the old Clark house in its construction. Upon the 
foundation of the once haunted house Colonel Robert Grouse built the 
dwelling more recently owned by A. J. Wagner. 

Isaac Paris, jr., to whom reference has been made, bought the Clark 
farm (in 1787) and erected there a dwelling and store. He was the 
first to engage in mercantile trade in the village, and during the few 
years that he devoted to the business he became widely known for his 
integrity and humanity. He died in 1790 at the age of twenty- nine. 
On the 1st day of October, 1880, after ninety years, his remains were 
removed from Fort Plain to the town of Paris, Oneida county, where 
they were reinterred with appropriate honors under the auspices of the 
Oneida Historical Society. Addresses were delivered on this occasion 
by C. W. Hutchinson, Lorenzo Rouse, Professor North and others, 
this tribute being due to his kindness in supplying the settlers with 
food as has been previously mentioned. In addition to his great gen- 
erosity and noble character, Paris was of fine personal appearance and 
the great esteem in which he was held led to his election for several 
terms to the legislature. The Clark farm passed from Paris into the 
hands of George Crouse, jr., who paid for it in wheat at eighteen cents 
per skipple (three pecks), he having been advised to make this purchase 
by Colonel Willett, who was at that time a member of his household. 

Just north of the Crouse place Hved Peter Young. The exact loca- 
tion of his residence in 1788 was where the late H. E. Williams after- 



TOWN OF MINDEN. 23* 

ward built his beautiful mansion. Next north of Crouse lived Johannes 
Lipe During the revolution he owned the land on which the defences 
of Fort Plain were erected. The property afterward came into the 
possession of his son David, and more recently into that of David's 
son, Seeber Lipe. With the consent of the latter, small marble monu- 
ments were, in August, 1882, placed upon the site of the historic struc- 
tures. One stone designates the site of the original fort erected in 1776, 
and the other the block-house, built in 1781. The monuments were 
placed in position by Seeber Lipe, Homer N. Lockwood, Harvey Wick, 
and Jeptha R. Simms. Present at the time was the late Peter J. Wag- 
ner, then in his eighty-eighth year, and who remembered having seen 
the block-house when a boy. 

John Abeel, an Indian trader, and who had spent some time among 
the Senecas, settled, as has been mentioned, within a short distance of 
Fort Plain about 1757. He secured several hundred acres of land of 
one of the grantees of the Bleecker patent, and having erected a stone 
dwelling upon a knoll directly above the flats, he married, on S.eptem- 
ber 22, 1759, Mary Knouts, a member of one of the prominent German 
families. His house, together with the early church which stood near 
it and also the house of William Seeber, was burned in August, 1780, 
while he himself was an Indian captive. It was at this time that he 
was recognized by his son, Cornplanter, and liberated. After the war 
closed Abeel-erected another house on the same site. 

Cornplanter visited Fort Plain in his native dress about the year 
1 8 10, bringing with him several Indians of dignified rank. They were 
cordially welcomed by the chief's relatives, going first to the house of 
Joseph Wagner, father of Peter J. Wagner, who was a grandson on the 
mother's side of John Abeel. The party also visited the "house of 
Nicholas Dygert, whose wife was a sister of Mrs. Wagner, and was 
richly entertained; and then at the home of Jacob Abeel, living with 
his widowed mother on the old homestead, the Indians were treated 
with hospitality. The visit lasted several days and the guests were the 
central attraction of village society, for Cornplanter was a man of noble 
bearing, and was decorated with all the native display of costume, ap- 
propriate to his rank. His father had, at that time, been dead more 
than a dozen years. 
30 



234 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Isaac Soule kept a small tavern in the village in 1804. At that time 
there were very few buildings of any kind in the place, and in the fol- 
lowing year (1S05) Joseph Wagner opened a public house which was 
kept as a hotel until 1850, and was then converted into a private resi- 
dence. Later on it became the property of Andrew Dunn. The old 
tavern of Isaac Soule was reopened as a store by John C. Lipe about 
1S08 ; it also contained at that time a tailor shop. 

Among the very early professional men may be mentioned Dr. 
Joshua Webster, who came from Scarsborough, Me., about 1797, when 
still a young man. He married Catharine, a daughter of Joseph Wag- 
ner, whose father, Peter Wagner, was a lieutenant-colonel during the 
revolution. Dr. Webster became a resident of Fort Plain in its very 
early infancj-, and passed a long and useful life, filling many important 
positions in public and society. At the time of his death, which oc- 
curred in 1849, at the age of seventy-eight years, he was president of 
the Fort Plain bank. 

Peter J. Wagner, son of Joseph Wagner, was the first settled lawyer 
in the village. He \vas a man of marked abilitj' ; always prominent in 
affairs of public interest and anxious for the welfare of his townsmen. 
He represented Montgomery county in congress in i839and 1841, and 
lived to an advanced age, witnessing the transformation of Fort Plain 
from a hamlet of less than a dozen houses, to the flourishing village of 
recent years. 

Fort Plain received its first pronounced impetus during the five or six 
years following the completion of the Erie canal. In 1S24 Henrj- P. 
\'oorhees erected a store on the bank of the creek, in the rear of Lipe's 
crockery store. In 1826 John D. Diefendorf built one on the berme 
bank of the canal, and during the same year John Warner built and 
opened a store where John A. Walrath has more recently conducted 
business. The justly celebrated historian, Simms, who made the village 
his home during a great portion of his life, aptly describes the celebra- 
tion in Fort Plain, upon the completion of " Clinton's Ditch,"' as the 
canal was frequently called, and mentions among those who were gath- 
ered at the sumptuous dinner in the Wagner House, " several Foxes 
Grosses, Wagners, Hackneys, Marvin, Ferguson, Adams, Cole, Belding. 
Mabee, Dielendorfs, Crouses, Lipes, Dygerts, Ellis, Nellises, Abeels, 



TOWN OF MINDEN. 235^ 

Seebers, Ver Planks, Washburns, Moyers. Caslers, Cliinis, Failings, Roof, 
Furman, Langdon, Warner, Cunning, and others." This list will give the 
modern reader an idea of many of the family names of Fort Plain in 1825. 

What a change, however, in the past three score years ! How few of 
those then living would recognize Fort Plain could they behold its 
dwellings and places of business of to-day. Possibly no better idea 
can be conveyed of the gradual but sure growth of the place, than by 
giving its population at a few stated intervals since its incorporation, 
April 25, 1832. At that time there were probably not more than 400 
inhabitants; in i860 this number had increased to 1,592, and at pres- 
ent a moderate estimate places the population at 3,000. 

For many years, and in fact until the completion of the Albany and 
Binghamton railroad. Fort Plain was the outlet of trade for a large re- 
gion of country lying to the south, and this contributed in no small de- 
gree to the prosperity of the place. The project of a railroad from 
Richfield Springs to Fort Plain has been agitated more or less during 
the past few years, and there are strong evidences at present that it will 
soon be in operation. 

Substantial manufacturing interests always tend toward the prosper- 
ity of a community In this line Fort Plain has been quite favored, 
offering pleasant and comfortable homes to the working classes, and 
unsurpassed shipping facilities for the manufacturers, of whom we shall 
have more to say later on in this work. 

The first two years' record of corporate existence of Fort Plain is 
missing. The trustees, in 1834, were Henry Adams, Daniel Cooler, 
Daniel F. Curtis, Adam A. Nestle and William A. Haslett. Andrew 
Zimmerman was clerk, and Chester L. Simms treasurer. Among those 
who served as trustees from 1840 down until the middle of the century 
and later, will be remembered Simeon Tingue, Solomon Norton, Nathan 
Davis, William E. Bleecker, Jacob B. Flint, John H. Moj'er, Barney 
Becker, Gilbert Warner, James Alpin, Daniel Grns, John Darrow, Will- 
iam C. Noxon, John L. Switz, Josiah Plank, William Crouse, Nicholas 
A. Van Alstine and Solomon Smith. The present officers are : Presi- 
dent, John A. Roof; trustees, Thomas Williams, David Ostrom, H S. 
Wemple and Ferd. Smith ; treasurer, Edwin C. Norton ; clerk, James 
A.Wendell; collector, John Carl. 

The present efficient water works were built in 1885. 



236 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Fort Plain Church History. — A review of the old Sand Hill church 
has been presented to the reader on preceding pages, and we now pro- 
ceed to the Methodist Society. It was first organized as a class June 
24, 1832, at which time Rev. Jonas Diefendorf and Rev. Eleazur 
Whipple, two preachers belonging to the Canajoharie circuit, and Rev. 
George Harmon (presiding elder), gathered thirteen members together, 
among whom were Solomon Countryman, the leader, and his wife, Mr. 
and Mrs. Jacob Wendell, and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Davis. Three 
years later, September, 1835, the class had increased to thirty members, 
and Peter A. Brumfield was leader. The society received the services 
of several preachers on the Canajoharie circuit, being at one time a part 
of that charge, and at another that of Palatine Bridge. In 1844 it be- 
came a separate charge, with a resident pastor. Among the pastors 
who officiated during the society's early history will be remembered 
such well known preachers of that daj' as James Kelsey, Abraham 
Diefendorf, James P. Backus, Isaac Grant, Edwin Dennison and John 
Padham. During the interval between 1839 and 1852 Cyrus Meeker, 
Clark Fuller, Thomas Armitage, Hiram Chase and others officiated. In 
1852 the charge was transferred from the Troy to the Oneida Confer- 
ence, but again returned to the former in i860. Among the pastors 
who came subsequent to 1852 may be mentioned Robert Fox, J. T. 
Wright, Selah Stocking, Homer Eaton, Bostwick Hawle}% T. Dwight 
Walker, William Ryan, I. C. Fenton, and others. The present pastor is 
Rev. E. H. Brown, having been appointed to the charge in April, 1892. 
Services were at first held occasionally in the Sand Hill church, and 
later on in dwellings and also in a brick building at the corner of Canal 
and Main streets. The district school-house was afterward occupied b\' 
the societj' prior to 1842. The first regular house of worship was ded- 
icated February 20, 1845, ^"^^ ^^'^s enlarged and rededicated in 1S54. 
The present beautiful structure was built in 1880. 

Universalist Church. — A number of persons professing this doc- 
tiine first organized themselves into a religious body in Fort Plain 
April 6, 1833, under the name of the Universalist Society of Min- 
den. The trustees elected were Jacob Hand, Daniel Gros, John Light- 
hall, Henry Cook and Henrj' S. Moyer. Solomon Sanders was clerk 
and Jacob Hand treasurer. Steps were at once taken toward build- 



TOWN OF MINDEN. 237 

ing a house of worship, which was finished and dedicated Decem- 
ber 25th of the same year. It has since then been twice remodeled, 
once in 1855 and again in 1874, on December 30th of which year 
re-dedication services were held. Among the early pastors of the 
society may be mentioned Job Potter, Jesse Bushnell, L. C. Browne, 
J. D. Hicks, H. B. Soule, A. C. Barry, H. L. Playward, G. W. Gage, 
A. B. Grosh, C. E. Hews, H. H. Baker, Adolphus Skinner, B. L. 
Bennett, E. W. Fuller, and a few others. The present pastor is Rev. 
E. A. Perry. 

The Reformed Church of Fort Plain. — This society originally wor- 
shiped in the old church on Sand Hill, as stated elsewhere In 1834, 
the village having attained considerable size, it was deemed advisa- 
ble to remove the place of worship thither, and accordingly a church 
was erected within its limits. Just as the building was finished it 
unfortunately took fire from a defective stove-pipe and was destroyed. 
Another house of worship was built of brick in its stead the follow- 
ing year, and in 1871 this was enlarged and remodeled at a cost of 
$13,000. Among the pastors who have officiated since the congre- 
gation has been located at Fort Plain, may be mentioned N. Bogard- 
us, Arthur Burtis, John Page Pepper, S. Van Vechten, C. G. McLean, 
M. L. Schenck, J. G. Hall, G. D. Consaul, W. Whittaker, Alexan- 
der B. Briggs, Samuel J. Rogers, and others. The present pastor is 
Rev. E. A. McCullum. The present brick church, which was built 
in 1887, is an ornament to the village. 

Lutheran Church. — The Lutherans of Fort Plain, first held meetings 
in 1842 at private houses. On these occasions the Rev. G. Saul, a visiting 
clergyman, officiated. The society first erected a church in 1853, at 
which time Rev. Mr. Roll was pastor. Since then their pulpit has been 
filled by a number of able clergymen, among whom is the present pas- 
tor, Theodore Krug. The church now occupied was built in 1874. 

The Baptist Society. — Organized the present year (1892), is holding 
services in the Shinaman block, pending the erection of a house of wor- 
soip. Their pastor is W. E. Darrow, a graduate of Hamilton College. 

The Protestant Episcopal church is located on Prospect Hill, and 
has about seventy communicants. The pastor is Rev. Clarence E. 
Ball, of Canajoharie. 



238 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

St. James Roman Catholic church is under the spiritual guidance of 
Rev. J. Bloomer, of Canajoharie. 

The Clinton Liberal and Military Institute, first known as the Fort 
Plain Seminary and Collegiate Institute, was erected by a stock com- 
pany, with a capital of $32,000, in 1853, and is one of the best educa- 
tional institutions in the state. It was chartered by the Regents of the 
University October 20th of the same year, the late Peter J. Wagner 
being the first president of the board of trustees. Rev. Alonzo Flack 
was the lessee of the institution, and Principal Rev. Joseph E. King 
and Preceptress Miss Angelina Ensign, with thirteen additional teach- 
ers, formed its first corps of education. The first scholastic year of the 
school began auspiciously November 7, 1853, with 515 students. The 
vacancy caused by the resignation of Professor King was filled Novem- 
ber 9, 1854, by Rev. James E Latimer. Among the prominent prin- 
cipals and instructors of this institution of learning will be remembered 
such well known educators as W. H. Bannister, Charles W. Bennett, 
Benjamin I. Diefendorf and Rev. Abraham Mattice. The present prin- 
cipal is Charles V. Parsell, and there are now about 155 students. The 
institute is conducted by the Universalists. Excellent judgment was 
exhibited in selecting an elevated site for the building, affording pure 
air and good drainage, two features of vital importance in educational 
structures. 

The Press. — Fort Plain is honored by its record in journalism, for 
though it was marked by difficulties, its tone has always been elevated. 
In 1827 S. N. S. Grant started the Fort Plain Watch Tower, and con- 
tinued it until 1829, when it came into the hands of John Calhoun, and 
in 1830 editor Piatt took it and changed the name to the Fort Plain 
Sentinel, but it soon proved a failure. 

The Fort Plain Gazette, first issued in 1834 by Henry L. Gross, was 
continued by him until 1S36. The Fort Plain Journal first saw the 
light in 1836 under the direction of E. W. Gill, who, with his successors, 
among whom were William L. Fish, Levi S. Backus (a deaf mute), and 
Wendell & Sansell, published the paper until 1855, when it was changed 
to the Mohaipk Valley Register. During the last named year Sansell 
sold his interest to D. S. Kellogg, and he in 1856 sold to C. W. Web- 
ster. Webster & Wendell were the publishers until May 12, 1859, 



TOWN OF MINDEX. 239 

when Mr. Wendell retired and was succeeded by a series of owners 
during the ensuing five or six years. Angell Matthewson secured an 
interest in the paper in i860, and the firm of Webster & Matthewson 
issued it until July, 1865, when the former retired, leaving the enter- 
prise in a flourishing condition. Mr. Matthewson sold the plant in 1868 
to Elliott & Bowen, and the former parted with his interest in 1872 to 
Charles Bowen. The paper was purchased in Ma^ch, 1876, by Horace 
L. Greene, who conducted it until his deatli, in October, 1891. The 
paper is now owned by his heirs, and is managed by his son. Nelson B. 
Greene. 

The Fort Plain Free Press, a weekly Republican journal, was first is- 
sued April 8, 1884, by A. L. and H. C. Diefendorf. The present pub- 
lisher is Harvey C. Diefendorf. The paper is issued every Tuesday. 

The Fort Plain Standard, Democratic in politics, was started in Feb- 
ruary, 1876, by W. A. and Fred Haessel. The present publisher is 
George O'Connor, jr. 

The Tocsin was a paper of short life, and was published by H. Link. 

The Ltitheran Herald, 3i semi-monthly, was published in 1839, by 
W. L. Fish, being edited by Rev. J. D. Lawyer. 

Banks. — The Fort Plain Bank, organized December 25, 1838, with a 
capital of $100,000, was the first institution of its kind in the village. 
The first directors were Joshua Webster, J. Reid, Robert Hall, Nicholas 
Moyer, P. J. Wagner, William A. Haslett, John D. Diefendorfif, Daniel 
Moyer, J. D. Zoller, Jacob Abeel, J. H. Moyer, Adam A. Nestle, H. 
Adams, J. Cady and Jacob Sanders. In February, 1839, Joshua Web- 
ster was elected president, and Peter F. Bellinger, cashier, the former 
holding his position until his death. J. H. Moyer succeeded him, and 
in January, 1854, when the capital was increased to $150,000, William 
A. Haslett was elected president. Among the cashiers were J. C. 
Dann, L C. Babcock and J. S. Shearer, the latter holding that office 
when, in Ma}', 1864, the institution was reorganized as the National 
Fort Plain Bank, with a capital of $200,000. Beginning business in 
September of that year, Mr. Haslett was president at the time, and 
J. D. DievendorfF, vice-president. The former died in October, 1874, 
and was succeeded by E. A. Wood. In 1883 the charter of the bank 
expired, and the Fort Plain National Bank was then organized, with a 



240 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

capital of $200,000, and a surplus of $200,000. The present officers 
are, Edwin W. Wood, president ; Andrew Dunn, vice-president ; Fred- 
erick S. Haslett, cashier; Irving Knowlton, assistant cashier. 

The Farmers' and Mechanic's Bank of Fort Plain was organized in 
1887, and has a capital of $50,000, and a surplus of $50,000. The 
institution is at present remodeling and enlarging the old Lipe house 
on Canal street, and will soon have the handsomest and most com- 
modious banking quarters in the village. The present officers are : 
John A. Zoller, president; Lester Getman, vice-president; Stafford 
Moser, cashier. 

Masonic. — Fort Plain Lodge No. 433, F. and A. M., was organized 
August 20, 1857, and received its charter June 17, 1S58, working un- 
der dispensation in the mean time. The first officers were Peter Sny- 
der, W. M. ; George Yost, S. W. ; David Hackney, J. W. ; F. Dieven- 
dorf, secretary; A. Dievendorf, treasurer; C. L. Sims, deacon; L. 
Hester, J. D., and J. Smith, tyler. The lodge at present contains 209 
master masons. The present officers are : H. Seymour Wemple, W. 
M. ; Joseph Duncan, S. W. ; Joseph B. Tiffany, J. W. ; John A. Roof, 
treasurer; Emill Rebell, secretary; Worthington S. Farley, jr., S. D. ; 
John H. Parke, J. D. ; Rev. E. A. Perry, chaplain; John M. Yorden, 
S. M. C. ; William A. Tadlock, J. M. C. ; Henry Crane, tyler, and 
David G. Hackney, marshal. 

Among Fort Plain manufacturing and industrial interests may be 
mentioned the following: 

The Fort Plain Spring and Axle Company, operated by Wood, 
Smith & Company, who are the largest manufacturers of both springs 
and axles in the world, employing upwards of 200 men. 

The Fort Plain Hosiery Mills, operated by Dunn, Smith & Company, 
employing 200 or more men. 

The Zoller Lumber Company, manufacturers of sash, doors and 
blinds, which are shipped largely to all parts of the United States, em- 
ploying fifty to seventy-five men. 

The Fort Plain Furniture Company, of which J. K. Edwards is pres- 
ident, and Adam Hicks, manager, manufacturers of furniture, finding a 
market in all parts of the United States. 

B. H. and E. E. Elwood, manufacturers of silk dress goods, employ- 
ing 125 or more men. 



TOWN OF CANAJOHARIE. 241 

Duffy Brothers, managers of a new silk warp mill, now in process of 
erection, which will employ fifty to seventy- five men. 

The Orange County Milk Association, manufacturers of condensed 
milk, which is shipped in cans to all climates. 

The tannery of John Winning, on North Canal street, employing fif- 
teen men or more, and a number of other establishments of varied char- 
acter. 



CHAPTER XXI. 
THE TOWN OF CANAJOHARIE. 

rHIS town lies on the south bank of the Mohawk. Its eastern 
boundary is formed by the town of Root ; its southern by Scho- 
harie county, and its western by Minden. The surface consists of the 
intervale of Canajoharie or Bowman's creek, and undulating uplands 
200 to 600 feet above the valley of the Mohawk. The above men- 
tioned creek, which flows from the southwestern part of the town 
almost directly east until it reaches the little hamlet of Waterville, 
whence it takes a northerly turn and flows in a ziz-zag course to its 
mouth at the village of Canajoharie,is the principal waterway of the town. 
The soil is a gravelly loam, derived from the disintegration of the un- 
derlying slate, in some places intermixed with clay. It easily yields to 
cultivation and repays the labor of the agriculturist. Canajoharie, in- 
deed, has been noted since its earliest settlement for its rich and valu- 
able farms. 

On the 24th of March, 1772, Tryon county was divided into five 
districts designated by the following names : Mohawk, Stone Arabia, 
Canajoharie, Kingsland and German Flats. In that division the 
boundaries of the third, or Canajoharie district were made to include all 
the territory south of the Mohawk extending as far as the bounds of 
the county, and from a line running north and south, crossing the river 
at Anthony's Nose, and extending west to Little Falls 

On March 7, 1788, the original Canajoharie district was formed into 
a town bearing the same name. Cherry Valley w<is formed from it in 

31 



242 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

1791 ; Mindeii in 1798 ; a part of Root in 1823, and another addition to 
Minden in 1849. This reduced the town to its present area, 23,892^ 
acres. 

The principle grants of land in this town were the Canajoharie tract 
of 12,450 acres, granted to Lewis Morris and five others, June 20, 1723 ; 
the Bradt patent of 3,200 acres, granted to Arent Bradt and Philip 
Livingston, February 13, 1733 ; Bagley's patent, of 4,000 acres, granted 
to Timothy Bagley and C. Williams, June 17, 1737; also a number of 
others, among which were two Colden patents, and the Cosbj-, Dick, 
Lyne and Morris patents, of 2,000 acres each. 

Long before any white settler had camped on the shores of the Mo- 
hawk, the aboriginal name, Canajoharie, was applied by the Indians to 
the country lying south of that historic river, and also to the smaller 
stream that empties into the Mohawk at the present village of Canajo- 
harie. The English interpretation of the word is " the pot that washes 
itself," and its significance is due to a strange work of nature to be seen 
in the bed of the creek about three quarters of a mile from its mouth, 
where falling water and pebbles, in ages gone by, have rounded out a 
hole in the solid slate rock twenty feet in diameter. The exact depth 
of the hole is unknown, but it generally contains ten feet of water, be- 
low which small stones and other debris are found. Nearly a quarter 
of a mile above this phenomenal well is a beautiful cascade. The con- 
clusion arrived at by those who have studied this matter is tliat at one 
time this cascade was directly over the hole, and that the action of 
water during the centuries that have since elapsed has worn the face of 
the falls back to their present distance. Thus through this interesting 
natural curiosity we obtain the Indian word " Canajoharie," which has 
been approriately given to the creek as well as the falls, and also to the 
town and attractive village. 

The names of the first settlers have not been preserved, which unfor- 
tunately gives too much room for conjecture. It is very probable that 
many came from Schoharie and located in this part of the town con- 
temporarily with the pioneers of Minden. A portion of the rich lands 
was under cultivation by the Indians at the time the whites first came 
up the river, especially the islands a mile and a half above and below 
the mouth of the creek, on which corn, beans, squashes and tobacco 



TOWN (.)F CANAJOHARIE. 243- 

were growing. The early traders who came into the valley to exchange 
merchandise for furs, found large numbers of apple trees on the hillsides 
above and below Canajoharie creek, but the trees appeared to have been 
set out irregularly and without that order found in modern orchards. 

Among the fortified dwellings that were utilized as places of defence 
during the revolution and designated as forts, was the old Van Alstyne 
house, which stands on the east side of the creek and was once defended 
by a palisade. It was known as " Fort Rensselaer," but there is 
nothing to indicate that General Van Rensselaer ever stopped there. 
The old house later on came into the possession of John H. Moyer, 
and is mentioned at length by the historian Simms. 

Fort Ehle, a mile or more south of Canajoharie, was the palisaded 
dwelling of John Ehle. Within a short distance of this military post a 
detachment of the enemy under Brant, in 1780 or '81, surprised and killed 
Adam Eights, and captured Nathan Foster and Conrad Fritcher, the 
last mentioned two being taken to Canada. A mile west of Fort Rens- 
selaer was the stone dwelling of Henry N. Failing, erected by his father, 
Nicholas. It was strongly built and the windows and doors were forti- 
fied with bullet proof oak plank, and along its southerly side facing the 
hill, a staging was erected to which access was gained from second story 
windows. This staging, with an oak floor, was enclosed with plank to 
the height of a man's breast, thus affording protection to those who 
were stationed behind it. It was called Fort Failing, and never being 
invaded or molested by the enemy it remained intact until 1833, when 
it accidentally caught fire and was totally burned. The house was oc- 
cupied after the war by Rev. John Daniel Gros, a pioneer clergyman, 
who subsequently exchanged it to Colonel Henry F"rey for property in 
Freysbush, where the former built a commodious brick mansion, in 
which he lived for a number of years and died there in 18 12. Colonel 
Frey moved into the Failing place, adjacent to which he owned a farm 
of 200 acres, his entire possessions south and west of the site of Cana- 
joharie village being 3,200 acres. Freysbush, which until 1849 be- 
longed to the town of Canajoharie, was named after him. His tory 
sympathies have been alluded to in connection with the history of 
Palatine, in which town the first of the family located. Colonel Frey 
died in the old Failing house at an advanced age. 



244 HISTORY OF MONTGOMKRY COUNTY. 

An early settler of Canajoharie was Johannes Roof, who located on 
the site of the village in 1777 or '78. Prior to that time, however, he 
lived at Fort Stanwix (now Rome), his residence at the latter place 
having begun in 1760, but the increasing danger of invasion led him to 
come farther east. He purchased a farm in Canajoharie upon which 
Henry Schremling, one of the pioneers of the town, had erected a stone 
dwelling. It stood directly back of the old Eldredge or Lovett house 
and was demolished in 1 840. 

During the revolution Goshen (or Gose) Van Alstine lived near the 
village of Canajoharie and at his house, on June 11, 1775, the ninth 
meeting of the county committee of safety was held. It consisted of 
twenty- seven delegates ; ten from Palatine; seven from Mohawk ; five 
from Canajoharie and five from Kingsland and German Flats. It was 
at that meeting that Christopher P. Yates and John Marlatt, the former 
of whom was chairman of the committee, were chosen as delegates to 
represent Tryon county in the provincial congress. The fourteenth 
meeting of the committee was also held at Van Alstine's hou.se and a 
very important meeting it proved. Nicholas Herkimer, afterwards 
general, was chairman, and Mr. Eisenlord, clerk, The dangerous con- 
dition of the exposed inhabitants at Fort Stanwix and other settlements 
in the valley was discussed, and resolutions adopted that the state of 
affairs should be communicated to Schenectady, with the suggestion that 
100 men be sent from that city to their aid. Thus were the ominous 
clouds of battle rising over the beautiful valley which is now so peace- 
ful and prosperous. It is not, however, our intention to here review the 
struggles of the revolution, a special chapter having been devoted to 
that subject in the early part of the work. 

Gose Van Alstine is distinguished as having erected the first grist- 
mill on Canajoharie creek. It was a wooden building and stood on the 
east bank a short distance below the falls, and was probablj built about 
1760. It subsequently came into the possession of Van Alstine's sons, 
Captain Martin G, and Philip. The old mill was burned about the 
year 1814 or '15. 

In 1817 George Goertner and Henry Lieber, his son-in-law, having 
purchased the old water privilege and mill site, erected a stone mill 
fifteen or twenty rods below the site of the Van Alstine mill, and at the 



TOWN OF CANAJOHAUIE. 245 

same time built a substantial stone dam across the creek. Adjacent to 
this they subsequently erected a saw-mill, a distillery, a fulling-mill and 
a carding machine, and for a number of years a large business was 
transacted, as they had the patronage of Palatine, Root and Charleston. 
Upon the death of Mr. Lieber, about 1838, he having previously bought 
his partner's interest, the mills became the property of Uriah Wood, 
during whose possession they were destroyed by fire and were never 
rebuilt. 

The second grist-mill on the Canajoharie was built about 1770 by 
Colonel Henry Frey, who also constructed an adjacent stone dwelling. 
It was about a mile from the mouth of the stream and probably forty 
rods from the Van Alstine mill, the miller in charge being an Irish- 
man. This mill, together with 750 acres of excellent land, came into 
the possession of Henry Frey Cox, by deed of gift from his grand- 
father, dated May 4, 1812. Upon this land was a heavy growth of 
timber, which John A. Ehle, who built a store-house, saw-mill and dry 
dock below Canajoharie village upon the completion of the canal, cut, 
sawed up, and shipped to tide water, on boats of his own construction. 
Ehle employed a large number of men for several years. The old stone 
house belonging to the grist-mill property was occupied for a time by 
Dr. Sherman, while John Lieber conducted the grist-mill and adjoining 
distillery. After passing through the hands of several owners the 
property was purchased in 1828 by Harvey St. John, who, with his 
partner, Nicholas C. Van Alstine, bought the majority of wheat raised 
in the surrounding towns and milled flour for the New York market. 
The firm went into liquidation, however, and after a number of adven- 
turers had speculated with the mills, in vain attempts to establish paying 
business, the property was burned to the ground January 8, 1849. 
Eight days later the miller's house was also destroyed in a similar 
manner. 

The names of the earliest merchants in Canajoharie, like those of its 
earliest settlers, are unknown. William Beekman is believed to have 
been the first merchant in town after the close of the war. He v^as born 
on the ocean when his father's family was emigrating from Holland to 
the vicinity of Albany. He established himself in business near the 
Martin Van Alstine ferry, about one mile east of Canajoharie village, 



246 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERT COUXTV. 

and for a time was associated with George Best. He began trade there 
about 17SS, and married Joanna, the daughter of Nicholas Lowe, of 
Warren, then called " Little Lakes." Upon the organization of Scho- 
harie county in 1795, Mr. Beekman went to Sharon, where he contin- 
ued the mercantile business. He received the appointment of first 
judge of the Court of Common Pleas, creditabh- fulfilling its duties dur- 
ing a period of forty years. Judge Beekman died November 26th, 1S45, 
aged seventy-eight years. 

.About 1790 the Kane brothers, John, Elisha, Charles, Elias, Oliver, 
James and Archibald, came to Canajoharie and established themselves 
in trade, opening their first store in the old Van Alstine stone dwelling 
which was then probably forty years old. John, James and Archibald 
were tlie only ones known in the business, and they soon erected a 
stone dwelling with an arched roof a short distance from Van Alstine's 
ferry. There they continued in business until 1S05 or 1S06, annually 
increasing their trade, which grew to large proportions and included 
the shipping of their goods to and from Schenectady by boats. To 
facilitate tliis commerce the Kanes cut a canal across the fiats from their 
place to the river. In connection with this remarkable family of broth- 
ers we are obliged to recall a duel in which one of them bore a part. 

Soon after the departure of William Beekman, Barent Roseboom & 
Brothers (John and Abram) occupied a store on the east side of the 
creek in Canajoharie, the location being a short distance from the stone 
dwelling erected by the late Thomas B. Mitchell. Later on Philip 
Van Alstine became the sole partner of Barent Roseboom and the busi- 
ness was transferred to the old Beekman place near the ferry. They 
were thus brought into close competition with the Kane Brothers, 
but were often seen at the latter's dwelling. At that time card pla} - 
ing and whisky drinking were favorite amusements among the in- 
habitants, and in one of these games where the stakes ran high, Henry 
F. Cox became indebted to Archibald Kane for $100, and the latter 
became indebted to Roseboom for the same amount. Kane proposed 
to Roseboom that he should look to Cox for his pay, which he promptly 
refused to do. A challenge grew out of tlie quarrel that followed, 
and resulted in a duel with pistols, which took place on the morn- 
ing of April 18, 1801. Upon the signal being given to fire. Rose- 



TOWN OF CANA.IOlIArJE. 247 

boom did so, and at that instant Kane's arm dropped helpless to 
his side, having received a bad flesh wound. As he had previously 
lost his left hand, the shot practically disabled him and the com- 
batants were separated and reconciled. The affair created a sensation 
on both sides of the river and was for a long time the absorbing 
topic of conversation. 

The Kane brothers subsequently became widely separated, John 
going to New York ; Elias to Albany, whither he was followed by James, 
Eiisha to Philadelphia, Oliver to Rhode Island, Charles to Glens Falls, 
and Archibald to Hayti. James, the book- keeper of the firm, who was 
highly respected in Albany, died there about 1847, an octogenarian. 

Before taking up the manifold interests and industries of Canajoharie 
village as a separate part of this chapter, it seems appropriate to here 
mention the several minor villages and settlements in the town, which 
contribute in no small measure to its importance 

Buel, a small village situated in the southern part of the town, was 
first settled by John Bowman, who went thither about 1760 and pur- 
chased a large tract of land about the head waters of the stream which 
for nearly forty years was known as "Bowman's Creek." In fact the 
settlement now called "Buel," and a great share of the southern portion 
of the town was known as " Bowman's Creek." Among the other early 
settlers there were Benjamin Button, a blacksmith ; Peter VValrath, 
Benoni Bullock (a close communion Baptist preacher), Michael Hickey, 
Frederick Weller, Adolph Walrath, Richard Horning, Cornelius Flint, 
James Smith, Noah Dodge (justice of the peace), James Adsit, Daniel 
McDonald, Asa Kimball, Adam Brown, Peter Brown (a merchant). 
Dr. Conklin, Willidm Bartlett and John Seeber, the latter one 
of the first inn keepers. The post-office at Buel was established 
about 1830, but the name of the first postmaster is not remembered. 
The present incumbent is Charles R. Lane. In 1823 the Central Asylum 
for the instruction of the deaf and dumb was established near Buel, its 
course of instruction being modeled after that at Hartford, Conn. ; but 
in 1836 it was united with a similar institution previously established in 
New York. Prof O. W. Morris was its last principal. The settlement 
was named in honor of Jesse Buel, of Albany, at one time prominent in 
state agricultural circles. 



24S HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Ami's, a small village located in the same valley, two miles or more 
east of Buel, was named in honor of Fisher Ames. The claim is made 
that a man named Taylor settled within half a mile of the present village 
at a very early day, and that he was the first settler within the limits of 
the present town of Canajoharie. It is asserted that he cleared thirt}-- 
five acres of land, planted apple trees and built a small dwelling house 
of logs, but was compelled to relinquish his holdings when other settlers 
began to come in for want of a title to the land. He will be more 
readily remembered by some of the older residents from the fact of his 
having a partially demented son, named Harry Taylor, who wandered 
about the community bareheaded, carrying a bundle attached to which 
were two or three hats. 

In 1/94 a Free Will Baptist church was organized at a point several 
miles west of Ames, and in 1796 this society was movad to the latter 
place, where some of its members resided, including the pastor, Elder 
George Elliott. The original members of this early religious organiza- 
tion were Rufus Morris, William Hubbs, Jesse Benjamin, Philip Bonsteci, 
Ray Guiles, Nathan Richmond, Peter Frederick, Samuel Baley, Stephen 
Smith, Ephraim Elmer, Jonathan Elliott, Rufus Elliott, Jonah Phelps, 
Henry Rowland, Thomas Tallman, Benjamin Treadway. Jonathan Parks, 
and a large number of others, including fifty-four females. The first 
church was erected about a mile east of the village, being replaced in 
I S3 2 by another which was located at Ames. The society was then 
reorganized as the " Ames Free Baptist church," with Jeremiah R. 
Slark, John Bennett, Lutlier Taylor, Simon D. Kittle, Willard R. 
Wheeler and Lawrence Beach as trustees. Among the ministers of 
this church who succeeded Mr. Elliott will be remembered Thomas 
Tallman, David R. McElfresh, O. F. Moulton, Phips W. Lake, G. P. 
Ramsey, William H. Waldrose, J. M. Crandall, A. S. Mathews and a 
number of others, including the present pastor. 

Russel & Mills began business at Ames about the year 1800 and 
were the first merchants in the place. Among other early settlers there 
the names of a few of the more prominent ones will be recognized. 
Thus we recall Dr. Simeon Marcy and his brother-in-law, Joseph Jessup; 
Rufus and Charles Morris, Judge Phineas Randall, father of Alexander 
Randall, at one time governor of Wisconsin ; Ira Beach, an inn-keeper; 



TOWN OF CAXAJOHARIE. 24!) 

Frederick Mills, William and Squire Hills, brothers; Abial Bingham, 
Seth Wetmore, who was elected sheriff in 1S21, the first to fill that 
office in Montgomcr\' county after the revision of the constitution ; 
Abram, Isaac and Jacob Hodge, three brothers ; Gen. John Ke\'es, 
father of Zach. Keyes, for many years an inn-keeper at Sharon; Eben- 
ezer Hibbard ; John Russel, George Mills, who operated a large tan- 
nery ; Charles Powell, Reuben Hodge and a number of others including 
a family of whites. The early settlers in and around Ames differed from 
the pioneers locating on the river, in as much as they came mostly from 
New England, while the latter were of German extraction. Among the 
first industries of this part of the town were a grist-mill, a saw-mill and 
a wheelright's shop, all of which were set in operation about 1797. Still 
later a pottery and nail factory were built and conducted for a few years. 
The present postmaster at Ames is Milton Countryman. Among his 
predecessors in office the names of Edward Clark, De Witt Wells. Will- 
liani H. Hodge, Loring H. Tiffany and W. R. Wheeler may be men- 
tioned. 

Maplctown is a small village in the southeastern part of the town, 
distant from Canajoharie village about four miles. The name of this 
place was suggested from the large number of sugar maples which were 
found there and allowed to remain by the early settlers. Jacob Ehle, 
and Jacob Knox, his brother-in-law, located at this place as early as 
1791, the former building his house on the old Indian trail from Cana- 
joharie to New Dorlaclx They paid $2.62^ per acre for their land. 
Mr. Knox was supervisor of his town for a number of years, and also a 
justice of the peace, being well liked generally and averse to receiving 
remuneration for his public duties. His eldest son, the late General 
John Jay Knox, of Augusta, Oneida county, was prominently known 
throughout the state. Other early settlers at Mapletown were John 
St. John, Philander Barnes, Wessel Cornue, John Sweatman (a tanner 
and shoemaker), John Perrigs and Elisha Payton. Very early in the 
present century a reformed church was built there, Dominie Toll being 
among its first pastors. 

Marshville, situated on Canajoharie creek, near the center of the town, 
is a hamlet. One of the Seeber family built a large saw mill at this 
place at an early date, the property subsequently coming into the pof- 

32 



250 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

session of Stephen and Henry Garlock, who operated the mill for a num- 
ber of years. Among the early residents of the place was Joe Carley, 
an expert blacksmith, who gained some little celebrity after the war of 
1 812, b\' issuing shinplasters under the name of the " Muttonville 
Bank," signed by " Joe Carley, president," and " payable in good 
merchantable mutton." The present postmaster at Marshville is C. 
Van Alstine. 

Sprout Brook, is a small hamlet and post-office in the southwestern 
part of the town. The history of its settlement is contemporary with 
that of Buel and the Bowman's creek district. The present postmaster 
is H. A. Van Dusen. 

Population. — The population of Canajoharie (town and village) dur- 
ing the following named years will be of interest. In 1825 the town 
contained 3,664 inhabitants; 1830,4,348; 1835,4,671; 1840,5,146; 
1845, 4.9SS ; 1850, 4,097; 1855, 4,022; i860, 4,134; 1865, 4,248; 
1870,4,256; 1875,4,241; 1880,4,294; 1890,4,267. 

Schools. — The first school within the limits of the present town stood 
on Sceber's lane, on the north line of the Goertner farm, one mile and 
a half southwest of Canajoharie village. When the common school 
system was adopted this old house was known as district " No. 1 in and 
for the town of Canajoharie. " The town is now- divided into fourteen 
school districts, in which there is a population of 1,149 children of 
school age. Of these 831 are attending school, the daily average being 
5 17. Twenty-three teachers are employed, their aggregate salaries for 
1891 amounting to $8,418.27. The school libraries contain 1,879 vol- 
umes, the total value of which is $1,138. The sites and school-houses 
are valued at $18,310. The total equalized valuation of real and per- 
sonal estate in the town for the year 1891 was $2,203,139. 

Civil Organisation. — The town records were destro\ed b\- fire in 
1849, which makes it impossible to give a correct list of the officers 
during the preceding half century. The supervisors of the town from 
1850 to the present time have been as follows: 

Abraham Van Alstine, 1850-52 ; Barney J. Martin, 1853 ; Nicholas 
Slingerland, 1854-55; Chester S. Brumley, 1856; George Goertner, 
1857; William J. Van Dusen, 1S58-59; Edmund Buel, i860; 
Andrew Gilchrist, 1861 ; Edmund Buel, 1862-63; Lewis Clark, 1S64; 



TOWN OF CANA.IOHARIE. 25t 

William J. Van Dusen, 1865-68; James Halligan, 1869-70; Horatio 
Nellis, 1871 ; Charles G. Barnes, 1872; James Halligan, 1873; John 
Finehout, 1874-77; Charles T. Stafford, 1878-79; Charles G. Barnes, 
1880; Stafford Mosher, 1881-82; William Wiles, 1883-87; Vorhees 
Bush, 1888-90; James W. Dygert, 1891-92. 

The town clerks during a corresponding period have been : 
Constant Brown, 1850; Cornelius A. Smith, 1851-52; Silas V. 
Wemple, 1853; James P. Easton, 1854; Daniel Morrell, 1855; Horace 
Barnes, 1856; Lewis Clark, 1857-58; Silas V. Wemple, 1859; Lewis 
Clark, i860; George A. Doubleday, 1861 ; Robert H. Shaver, 1862- 
63; Charles W. Mosher, 1864; James Halligan, 1865 ; John Finehout, 
1866-67; Charles G. Shrader, 1868; Joseph Roser, 1869-71 ; John L. 
Reed, 1872; Christopher Sticht, 1873; George F. HiUer, 1874-75; 
Orlando Steingraves, 1876-77; Thomas Lynch, 1878-79; Lewis S. 
Davis, 1880; James W. Dygert, 1881-82; George L. Winne, 1883-84; 
Voorhees Bush, 1885-86; James W. Dygert, 1887-88; J. C. Melick, 
1889-90; Henry Klinkhart, 1891-92. 

The principal town officers for the present year are : Supervisor, 
James W. Dygert ; town clerk, Henry Klinkhart ; justices of the peace, 
Charles W. Wheeler, David Spraker, A. B. Dewey, Charles H. Hibbard ; 
collector, Menzo H. Wessell ; overseer of the poor, Augustus Stump- 
fel ; assessors, Henry T. Sammons, Augustus Jones, Howard Vosburgh. 

CANAJOHARIE VILLAGE. 

Unfortunately the task of collecting data and material for a detailed 
history of the village from its earliest settlement, down to the middle of 
the present century, was neglected until much of the necessary infor- 
mation had forever passed away, together with the lives of the partici- 
pants in those primitive scenes. 

The old stone Van Alstine house, occupied for many years by Philip 
Van Alstine, and which was probably erected about the middle of the 
last century, was undoubtedly the first substantial dwelling built on the 
site of the village, although fifty years prior to that time a settlement 
had been made near Palatine Bridge on the opposite side of the river. 
The available mill sites between the falls and the mouth of the creek 



252 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

attracted the attention of Goshen Van Alstine and Colonel Henry Frey 
at an early date, and both erected grist and saw-mills, a history of 
which will be found in the previous pages of this work. These mills 
naturally attracted settlers to the locality, and the families emplojed in 
clearing off the timbered lands in the vicinity, as natural!)- located in or 
near the village. 

As early as 1778 John Roof came from Fort Stanwix, where his 
father had previously settled, and opened an inn at Canajoharie. 
Whether a public house had been conducted there prior to that time is 
not definitely known. Roof's father, Johannes, purchased the old stone 
Schremling house that stood against the hill upon the southern end of 
the flats, and there they kept tavern for many years. The stages gen- 
erally stopped there over night as did also the passengers. It was in 
this early tavern that a mysterious burglary was committed in 1797, 
the perpetrators of which were never discovered. It appears that an 
iron chest in which a large sum of money had been deposited, was 
chained to the bedstead occupied by the elder Roof and his wife. Re- 
becca Bowman, a member of the family, and Nancy Spraker, a young 
girl, also occupied the room on the night of the burglary, and although 
the chest was of extraordinary weight, and was placed under the bed, 
the thieves succeeded in carrying it away without awakening any one. 
A small tin trunk in which valuable papers had been placed, and which 
had also been among the contents of the iron chest, was found soon 
after the robbery in one of the abutments of the bridge which crossed 
the creek. 

Among the notable guests at the Roof tavern in 1779 was General 
James Clinton, who was stationed there with a body of Sullivan's troops, 
some of the officers of which were no doubt entertained by Roof and 
Philip Van Alstine. During their stay they opened a road from Cana- 
joharie through the town of Springfield to the head of Otsego Lake, 
upon which they launched their fleet of bateaux. General Washington 
is also said to have stopped at Roof's house when in this locality. A 
more modern hotel was afterward erected in front of the old Roof tav- 
ern, and was known for a time as the " stage house." It was kept in 
1826 by Reuben Peake and a few years later by Elisha Kane Poof 
George B. Murray took possession of it in 1833, being succeeded by 



TOWN OF CANAJOHARIE. 253 

Morgan L. Harris, who conducted the house for ten years or more. 
Upon the site of these old taverns, Webster Wagner, who achieved fame 
and wealth as the inventor of the sleeping and palace car, erected the 
beautiful Hotel Wagner in 1888. 

Reference has already been made to the mercantile transactions of 
Barent Roseboom & Brothers, who established a store in the village at 
an early day. The next prominent tradesman was Henry Nazro, who 
opened a store about 1805, but removed to Troy within a few years 
thereafter. He was succeeded by Abram Wempic, a business man of 
extraordinary ability and of fine personal appearance. His father was 
at first associated with him, their place of business being "the old j'el- 
low building" previously occupied by tlie Rosebooms. Wemple sub- 
sequently built a store on the opposite side of the creek and moved his 
stock into it, whereupon Joseph Failing opened a store in the building 
he had vacated, and also conducted a tavern there His brother Warner 
was afterward interested with him in trade, but soon sold out to John 
Usher. The firm of Failing & Usher suffered a heavy loss in 1 8 1 7, when 
their store caught fire and burned to the ground. The senior partner 
was at that time indebted to Warner Failing and exhibited great integ- 
rity by assigning to him all his property, including a silver watch. 

Abram Wemple, above mentioned, commanded a company of caval- 
ry, and was known as a handsome and gallant officer. His death oc- 
curred about 1 815, after which his store was occupied by several busi- 
ness men, including Richard Bortle, more commonly known as " Dick 
Bortle," who kept a saloon there in 1826. This eccentric character of 
early days will be remembered by some of the older residents. 

Among other early merchants mention should be made of James B. 
Alton, who came to Canajoharie from Ames soon after the death of 
Wemple and continued in business there until 1825, at which time he 
failed. Herman I. Ehle opened a store there in 1 821, erecting a building 
for the purpose three years later on the bank of the canal. Henry 
Lieber also carried on a large business in Canajoharie in 1822 and 1823 
in connection with his mills previously mentioned. Among the canal 
boats which he built to transport his products, was one named " Prince 
Orange," launched in 1826. It was the first of the class called lake 
boats, and was built near the site of Lieber's brewery. ' A furnace for 



254 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

plow and other castings was removed to Canajoharie from Palatine 
Bridge about this time, the proprietors being Gibson. Johnson & Ehle. 
The well remembered historian. Simms, who lived so long at Fort Plain, 
was employed for a year or two as clerk for Mr. Ehle, afterwards be- 
coming his partner in the dry goods business. Another one of Ehle's 
early partners was John Taylor, who moved to the village in 1827. 

The chief athletic sport during the latter part of the first quarter of 
the century in the Mohawk valley was foot racing. As the canal neared 
completion these were of frequent occurrence at Canajoharie, but prob- 
ably the most prominent one was the contest which took place between 
Joseph White, of Cherry Valley, and David Spraker, of Palatine. 
This race came off in August, 1S24, and was contested for a stake of 
$1,000. The distance, ten rods, was marked off on Montgomery street 
by David F. Sacia, who was one of the judges and started the runners. 
Spraker won the race by three feet, and thus carried off the prize This 
race was a general topic of conversation for half a century afterward, 
and is still remembered by old residents. 

The name of David F. Sacia, who was one of the early lawyers of 
the village, and also one of its first postmasters, brings to mind the 
names of several others who have held the same office. Among the 
number were David Spraker, Abrani N. Van Alstine, and John C. 
Smith. Roger Dougherty, and Alfred Conkling (father of Roscoe 
Conkling) were the first to represent the legal profession in the village, 
being followed a little later by Nicholas Van Alstine. Later still were 
David Eacker (afterward first judge of the County Court of Common 
Pleas), and Charles McVean, one of the first congressmen from Mont- 
gomery county, and afterwards surrogate of New York county. 

Dr. Jonathan Eights was probably the first regular physician in the 
village, but removed to Albany prior to 1820. The medical fraternity 
was then represented by John Atwater and Lebbeus Doty. Dr. Walter 
L. Bean located in Canajoharie as early as 1825. 

Cii'iajoharie Water Stiffly. — A water supply was first introduced 
into the village in 1S52 by the Canajoharie Water Works Co., the plans 
for the works being made by William A. Perkins, engineer. The sup- 
ply was taken from springs by gravity, to which was added later on, 
rams for fire emergency. In 1876 this system was extended by Chas- 



TOWN OF CANAJOIIARIE. 'JSS 

W. Knight, taking the supply from larger springs. The company was 
managed by six directors, as follows : David Spraker, president ; Lo- 
renzo B. Clark, secretary and treasurer; Thos. B. Mitchell, Horace 
Barnes, Joseph White, and Chester S. Brumley. The superintendent 
was John D. Buddie. In 1881 the Cold Spring Water Company, a 
competing corporation, put in new works, after plans by Stephen E. 
Babcock, engineer. This company was managed by five trustees, among 
whom were James Arkell, Benjamin Smith, Adam Smith and Louis 
Bierbauer. 

In 1888 the property and franchise of the first company were sold by 
foreclosure to Randolph Spraker and William Hatter, who with others, 
in December, 1889, organized the Canajoharie Consolidated Water Com- 
pany, receiving the franchises and property of both the other companies. 
The catch basin is located three-fourths of a mile from the village; the 
pond one- half mile and the reservoir one quarter mile. The officers of 
the company are James Arkell, president ; William Hatter, vice-presi- 
dent ; Randolph Spraker, treasurer, secretary, superintendent and col- 
lector. 

The village was incorporated April 30th, 1829, since which time its 
growth has been very gradual, but including among its permanent resi- 
dents, men of substantial wealth and also intellectual, social and politi- 
cal prominence. The present population is fairly estimated at 2,200. 
Ttie village has suffered severe loss by fire upon three occasions, 1840, 
1849, and 1877, the flames destroying in each instance a large number 
of the business blocks. Thus we find the handsome Mohawk Hotel on 
the sight of the old Kirby House, the latter destroyed by the fire of 
1877. The magnificent Hotel Wagner was built by the late Webster 
Wagner in 1878, and is an ornament to the village and an evidence of 
the public spirit of its builder. 

The old stone school, known as District No. 8, which was built in 
1850 by P. Wetmore, under the direction of trustees C. G. Barnes, C. 
H. Brown, and J. J. H. Snell, has served its purpose well for two score 
years and more. Befoie the end of another year, however, an elegant 
stone school, now in process of erection at the corner of Cliff and Otsego 
streets, will be finished and occupied. It is being built by contractor 
Kirby, and being large and commodious, is a fine example of modem 
school architecture. 



256 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

The incomplete file of records makes it impossible to give a correct 
list of past village officers. The present incumbents are, F. E. Simons, 
president; Charles H. Shaper, Adam Roser, Charles E. Schultze, and 
Albert F. Hatter, trustees. 

The first church in Canajoharie was erected in 1818 by the combined 
efforts of a number of religious people of different denominations, the 
first regular preacher being Rev. George B. Miller of the Lutheran de- 
nomination. In 1825 the Erie canal was constructed so near this 
church as to leave barely room for the tow path, and when through canal 
boats began running the following summer blasts of their bugles greatly 
interfered with the services in the httle church, and the annoyance was 
only abated by an appeal to the legislature. Rev. Mr. Miller afterwards 
became principal of Hartwick Seminary, a position he retained for many 
years. 

T/te Reformed Church was organized on the 13th of January, 1827, by 
Rev. Douw Van O'Linda, Gerrit A. Lansing, Jacob Hees, John Cooper, 
John M. Wemple, Jacob Gray, and Henry Loucks, who met at the 
house of Mr. Lansing " for the purpose of taking into consideration the 
subject of organizing a Protestant Dutch church in this place." Meet- 
ings were held in the union church and the society remained under the 
pastoral care of Rev. Van O'Linda for a year or two, receiving Rev. 
Ransford Wells as a settled minister in 1830. The latter was succeeded 
by Rev. Richard D. Van Kleek, who resigned in the fall of 1S35. 

Among those who have filled this pastorate since that time may be 
mentioned Samuel Robertson, E. P. Dunning, a congregational clergy- 
man from New Haven ; James McFarlane, John De Witt, Nathan F. 
Chapman, E. S. Hammond, Alonzo Welton, Benjamin F. Romaine, B. 
Van Zandt and others. The present pastor is Rev. Mark A. Denman. 
Before this society had built a church in Canajoharie, its Sunday-school 
was consolidated with that of the Methodists across the river, and thus 
it continued until 1842, when the stone church now occupied by the 
Methodist Episcopal society was erected, its dedication taking place in 
March of that year. The present stone edifice of the Reformed society 
is of more recent date, and constitutes one of the architectural beauties 
of the village. 

St. Mark's English Lutheran Church was organized in 1839 by Re\-. 
William N. Scholl. During the same year, or the one following, they 



TOWN OF CANAJOHARIE. 257 

purchased the Union churcli building near the canal, Rev. Mr. Lintner, 
of Schoharie, delivering the dedicatory sermon in February, 1841. The 
present vine- covered stone churcli was erected at a cost of $15,000, in- 
cluding the chapel, and dedicated August 10, 1S70, the sermon on this 
occasion being again preached by Rev. Lintner. The names of Mr. 
Scholl, F. W. Brauns, Reuben Dederick, Rev. Hersh, Rev. Luckenback, 
and L. D. Wells will be remembered by some of the older members as 
having faithfully filled the pastorate of this church. The present pastor 
is Rev. William M. Bauni, jr. 

St. John's German Evangelical Lutheran Church perfected its or- 
ganization in 1835, with Rev. John Eisenlord as pastor, and including 
as members C. Scharff, C. Sauerland, Henry Otto, F. Jones, Henry Lie- 
ber and F. Miller. The society held meetings for some time in the 
Academy building, finally erecting a house of worship in 1848. The 
present stone church was built in I 87 I, its consecration taking place in 
March, 1872. The present pastor is Rev. J. A. W. Kirsch. 

Church of the Good Shepherd, Protestant Episcopal. — The first so- 
ciety of this denomination in Canajoharie was organized under the di- 
rection of Rev. I. Leander Townsend, rector at Cherry Valley, early in 
1852. John E. Young and Amos A. Bradley were the first wardens, 
George Yost, David W. Erwin, Sumner S. Ely, Samuel G. Wilkins, 
Abraham Seeber, John I. Brandon, Chester S. Brumley and Joseph 
White, the first vestrymen. The request for an Episcopal organization 
at Canajoharie was signed by the above named persons, together with 
William McMiller, Andrew Gilchrist, Daniel S. Read, Morgan L, Harris, 
Delevan Corey, Truman M. Richards, Peter D. Betticher, John I. Roof, 
Daniel G. Lobdell, George Smith, Ralph R. Lathropand Charles Miller. 
The parish first received the name of St. Polycarp, which was later 
changed to " The Good Shepherd." The present handsome stone edi- 
fice was erected in 1873 at an expense of about $9,000, which was wholly 
contributed by Mrs. Marietta White. The church was consecrated and 
taken under the spiritual jurisdiction of the diocese of Albany in 1881. 
There are at present about forty communicants. Among those who 
have officiated at this church the names of Revs. Joseph W. Mcllwain, 
Mr. Dowdney, Mr. Howard, Mr. Widdemer, Mr. Poole, Mr. Lusk, Mr. 
Schuyler, Mr. Marvin and Mr. Van Dyne may be mentioned. The 

33 



258 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

present rector is Rev. Clarence E. Ball, who succeeded Rev. Marvin, 
now rector of St. John's church at Johnstown. Mr. Bali also officiates 
at Fort Plain. 

The Methodist Episcopal Church. — This society was first organized 
on the opposite side of the river in Palatine, where thej- erected a meet- 
ing house as early as 1828. The stone church now occupied by them 
in Canajoharie was built in 1841, and its dedication took place in March, 
1842. In 1863 it was rebuilt and enlarged, rededication services being 
held February 18, 1864. The society has always been remarkably 
successful in its undertakings, and has a membership of 270 at the pres- 
ent time. The church has an active Sunday-school, with thirty- five 
teachers and officers, and 230 scholars. The present pastor is Rev. 
T. A. Griffin, who succeeded Rev. J. L. Atwell in April, 1892. B, Frank 
Diefendorf is superintendent of Sunday-school. 

St. Peter and Paul's Roman Catholic church was built in 1862, Rev. 
Daly, of Utica, officiating at the dedication, which took place in April, 
1863 The edifice cost $5,000. The pastors have included Revs. 
Clark, Brennan, Harrigan and Zucker. The present pastor is Rev. J. 
Bloomer, who also officiates at Fort Plain. 

Masonic. — Hamilton Lodge, No. 79, F. and A. M., received its char- 
ter in 1806, being at that time No. 10 in the list of state lodges. The 
first master was Dr. Joshua Webster. The present officers are : Jere- 
miah Vosburgh, W. M.; John S. Hatter, S. W.; P'rank E. Simons, J. W. 
Voorhees Bush, treasurer ; C. Sticht, secretary ; John W. Nellis, S. D. 
Zach C. Neahr. J, D.; Frank Rice, S. M. C; Henry A. Shaper, J. M. C. 
Hiram L. Huston, Lewis S. Davis and David J. Craig, trustees. 

Hiram Union Chapter, No. 53, R. A. M., is also located at Canajo- 
harie. The present officers of the Chapter are Albert M. Klock, M. E. 
H. P.; John A. Roof, E. K ; Alvin Kneeskern, E. S.; Voorhees Bush, 
treasurer; C. Sticht, secretary; K. A. Ellithorp, C. H.; F. E. Simons, 
P. S ; J. S. Hatter, R. A. C; Lewis S. Davis. M. 3d V.; David I. Craig, 
M. 2d v.; David E. Dunn, M. ist V. K. A. Ellithorp, Peter Sloan, 
and Charles Wheeler, trustees 

Journalistic History. — The first newspaper published in the village 
was the Telegraph, which appeared in 1825 and '26, edited and published 
by Henry Hooghkirk. In 1827 Samuel Caldwell issued the Canajo- 



TOWN OF CANAJOHARIE. 259 

harie Sentinel. In the same year and 1828 appeared the Canajoliai'ie 
Republican, issued at first b\' Henry Bloomer, and later by John Mc- 
Vean and D. F. Sacia. The Montgomery Argus, started by Henry 
Bloomer in 1 83 1, was continued by him for about two >ears, and then 
by S M S. Grant until 1836, when it was discontinued. 1 he Canajo- 
harie Investigator was published by Andrew H. Calhoun from 1833 
until 1836. W. H. Riggs first published the Moliaivk Valley Gazette, 
in 1847, continuing the paper for two years, and W. S. Hawley pub- 
lished the Montgomery Lrncn from 1850 to 1853. 

The Radii was begun in 1837 by Levi S. Backus (a deaf mute); in 
1S40 the office was burned and the paper removed to Fort Plain. In 
1854 it was removed to Madison county, but later returned to Fort 
Plain. For several years an appropriation of $200 per year was made 
by the state for sending the paper to deaf mutes. About 1858 it was 
removed to Canajoharie and published as the Canajoharie Radii. James 
Arkell purchased the paper in 1863, on the 30th of April of which year 
it was enlarged and assumed the name of the Canajoharie Radii and 
Taxpayer' s Journal. L. F. Allen secured an interest in the paper at 
that time and the firm of Arkell & Allen continued to publish it until 
January i, 1866, when Angell Matthewson purchased Arkell's interest. 
On the 1st of May, 1868, Mr Allen bought Matthewson's interest and 
this was sold to Alvin J. Plank in November of the same year. The 
firm of L. F. Allen & Co. continued until August i, 1887, when the 
Plank interest was sold to' John F. Hazelton. The Radii Publishing 
Co. was thus formed and conducted the publication until August i, 
1889, since which time L F. Allen has been sole proprietor. The 
Radii is an independent weekly journal. 

The Canajoharie Courier, independent in politics, is published week- 
ly. It was started by Willet F. Cook and Charles Bowen on the 9th 
of August, 1879. Bowen's share in the paper was purchased by Cook 
in January, 1880, and the latter then conducted it alone until March 1 1, 
1889, when he became associated with William B. Forman. The paper 
is now published by Cook & Forman. 

The Hay Trade Journal, published weekly, was established in July, 
1892. It is edited by Willis Bullock. 

Banks. — The National Spraker Bank — This institution, which was 
established as the Spraker Bank in 1853, is the oldest one of its kind in 



260 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

the village. It was reorganized and incorporated under the national 
banking act of 1865. James Spraker was the first president, and held 
the office until his death. Frasier Spraker, who is now president, was 
elected August 16, 1880. B. Fred Spraker is vice-president and Wil- 
liam Wiles, cashier. The capital is $100,000. 

The Canajoharie National Bank was first organized as a State bank 
in 1855, and as a national bank ten years later. The capital at that 
time was $100,000, since which it has been increased to $125,000. A. 
N. Van Alstine was the first president, and P. Meyer the first cashier. 
The present officers are: President, C. G. Barnes; cashier, A. C. Rich- 
mond; assistant cashier, N. S. Hrumley. The bank has a surplus of 
about $40,000. 

Among the industrial and manufacturing interests of the village the 
paper and cotton sack manufactory of Arkell & Smith is the most ex- 
tensive. This industry was established in 1859 since which time its 
capacity has been constantly increased. The factory furnishes employ- 
ment to about 150 employees and the output averages 25,000,000 sacks 
per annum. 

The Mohawk Valley Silk Fabric Company, whose factory is located 
on Canajoharie Creek, directly opposite Arkell & Smith's, was incor- 
porated in 1890. The compan)- manufacture silk fabric for mitts and 
gloves and employ about fifty workers. The officers are E. S. Smith, 
president; A. C. Richmond, treasurer, and H. L. Huston, secretary. 

The Pettit Manufacturing Company, incorporated in December, 1889, 
with the following officers : Charles G. Pettit, president; William N. 
Smith, vice-president, and Edward A. Walker, secretary and treasurer, 
manufacture fine confectionery for wholesale trade, and furnish employ- 
ment to a large number of workers. 

The Sweet Refrigerator Company was incorporated in 1889. The 
officers are James P. Van Evera, president ; A. C. Richmond, treasurer ; 
Charles Shaper, James Arkell, B. Frank Diefendorf, L. S. Davis, and 
William H. Bain, directors. Employment is given to twelve or fifteen 
workers and the product consists of refrigerators, snow shovels, step 
ladders, and bar fixtures. 

The Imperial Packing Company is engaged in curing and packing 
the celebrated "beech nut" hams and bacon, their plant constituting 
one of the important industries of the village. 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 261 



CHAPTER XXII. 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 



THIS town was formed from Johnstown April 4, 1837, and is, there- 
fore, the youngest town in the county. Its territory was origi- 
nally included in the provisional district of Mohawk, one of the first 
sub divisions of Tryon county. In 1788 the Mohawk district was di- 
vided and tiie portion of it lying north of the river was formed into a 
town named Caughnawaga, out of which, in 1793, Mayfield, Broadalbin 
and Johnstown were set off as separate towns. The reader will thus 
see that the creation of Mohawk renewed a historic name from old 
Tryon county. 

Mohawk is on the northern boundary, Johnstown being directly north, 
while Amsterdam is on the east ; Glen and a part of Root, on the south 
(the river intervening), and Palatine forms the western boundary. The 
Mohawk is the chief water course, having as principal tributaries the 
Cayadutta and Danoscara (or Dadanaskarie) creeks. In the valley the 
land is level and very fertile, but in the northern portion of the town 
the surface is much broken by hills, some of which reach a height of 
four hundred feet above the river. Mayfield mountain trends across the 
western border and forms, at the river, that bold projection of rock 
called " The Nose," which is so picturesque a feature in the landscape. 

Mohawk has an area of 19,519 acres and contains in whole or in part 
several of the important land patents granted during the early part of 
the eighteenth century, among which may be mentioned the historic 
Stone Arabia patent, comprising an aggregate of 12,700 acres, a small 
part of which extended into the western portion of this town. Next 
east was the Alexander tract of 8,000 acres, lying almost wholly within 
the town, granted May 6, 1825. The Collins tract of 2,000 acres lay 
east of Alexander's and was granted to John, Margaret and Edward 
Collins, under the name of Caughnawaga patent November 4, 1714, 
Hanson's patent, including 2,000 acres, bounded Collins on the west. 



262 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERT COUXTT. 

and was granted to Hendrick and Hans Hanson, July 17, 17 1 3. The 
Kayaderos?eras patent extended into the eastern part of Mohawk. It 
originally included more than 700,000 acres, but was obtained through 
fraud practiced upon the Indians. Much trouble and litigation grew 
out of an attempt by the patentees to occupy their claimed lands, and 
it was only through the influence of Sir William Johnson that the 
Indians were not cheated out of the whole tract. The patent was 
granted November 2, 1708. A small portion of Butler's patent is lo- 
cated in the north part of Mohawk. It was granted, December 31, 
'735. to Walter Butler and three others, and included a total of 4,000 
acres. The Sacandaga patent also extended south and includes a small 
part of the northern portion of the town. It was granted to Lendert 
Gansevoort and others, and embraced 28,000 acre?. 

The town of Mohawk is unusually interesting in its history, for dur- 
ing the revolution, and even the preceding year, its territory witnessed 
some of the most stirring events of tliat remarkable period. The town 
includes the site of one of the principal villages of the Mohawks, which, 
indeed, was their chief centre for many years. This was especially true 
of the period we call Sir William's time, and also after his death, when 
his son, Sir John Johnson, and his nephew Guy Johnson, succeeded 
him in authority, if not in influence. This village was called Caughna- 
waga, meaning "Stone in the water," or " at the rapids." When it 
was founded is not known, but it is supposed to have been many years 
previous to the advent of the whites, and has been known by various 
names as " Ganawadas," " Cahanisga," and " Gandaouga," the first two 
supposed to be Indian and the latter a mixture of Indian and French. 
To the Dutch settlers it was said to have been known first as " Kagh- 
newage," and afterward as " Caughnawaga," a name now, however, 
limited to the eastern and more ancient part of the village of Fonda. 

The earliest whites that visited the Indians at Caughnawaga are be- 
lieved to have been the Jesuits, whose mission, as it was said, was to 
advance the power of France as well as the Roman church. Isaac 
Jogues was held as a prisoner by the Mohawks from August, 1642, to 
the same month of the next year, and then being released he labored as 
missionary in 1646, but was killed by them in October of that year. 
Fathers Fremine and De Lamberville afterward dwelt at Caughnawaga 



TOWN" OK MOHAWK. 263 

and did missionary work, but their labors, as were those of all other 
Jesuit priests, were unsatisfactory and discouraging. This subject, 
however, is so fully treated in one of the early chapters of this work that 
further reference to it seems unnecessary. 

Caughnawaga, although one of the smallest of the Iroquois villages, 
was always of considerable importance, and was, indeed, a distinguished 
place among the Indians as well as the Jesuits. Here the first formal 
council was held in 1659. Ten years later, during one of the numer- 
ous Indian wars of the century, it was attacked by an opposing force 
(said to be the Mohicans), but the invaders were repulsed. In 1693, 
however, Count de Frontenac invaded the Iroquois country and de- 
stroyed many Indian villages, including Caughnawaga, and although 
the place was afterward rebuilt and gained considerable prominence as 
an Indian town, its greatest notoriety was acquired later on through its 
white, rather than its Indian, inhabitants. The first permanent white 
settlers in what is now Mohawk were the Dutch, who, indeed, were the 
pioneers of the lower part of the valley. One of the first families to 
locate here was Douw Fonda, who moved from Schenectady in 1751. 

At the beginning of the revolution he lived on the flats, a few rods 
from the road now leading across the river, and in addition to farming 
kept an inn. On May 22, 1780, he was killed by the Indians during that 
raid which rendered Sir John Johnson infamous. The unfortunate old 
man had greatly befriended the Mohawks in former years, but even this 
was of no avail at that time of butchery. The details of the tragedy 
are thus stated by the historian Simms : When the alarm first reached 
the family, Penelope Grant, a Scotch girl living with him, to whom the 
old gentleman was much attached, urged him to accompany her to the 
hill whither the Romeyn family were fleeing; but the old patriot, seiz- 
ing his gun, exclaimed : " Penelope, do you stay here with me, I will 
fight for you to the last drop of blood." Finding persuasion of no 
avail, she left him to his fate, which was indeed a lamentable one; for 
soon the enemy arrived, and he was led out by a Mohawk Indian, 
known as One-armed Peter, toward the bank of the river, where he was 
tomahawked and scalped. As he was led from the house he was ob- 
served by John Hanson, a prisoner, to have a book and cane in his 
hand. His murderer had often partaken of his hospitality, having 



264 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

lived for many years in Iiis neighborhood. When afterward charged 
with this horrid crime, he replied that, " as it was the intention of the 
enemy to kill him, lie might as well get the bount)' for his scalp as any 
one else." With the plunder stolen from the Fonda residence were four 
male slaves and one female, all of whom were taken to Canada. John, 
Jelles and Adam Fonda were sons of Douw, and were all staunch 
Whigs. Jelles became one of the most prominent men of the locality, 
and is said to have been the first merchant west of Schenectady. His 
trade was with both the Indians and the white settlers in the valley as 
far distant as Forts Schuyler and Stanwix, and even Oswego, Niagara 
and Schlosser. His traffic was chiefly in blankets, ammunition and 
supplies of a general character, and his pay was generally peltries, gin- 
seng and potash. By his industry Jelles Fonda accumulated a large 
property, and which descended to his heirs. He also served as captain 
under General Johnson during the last French war, and at the outbreak 
of the revolution received flattering inducements to join the British 
army. All these, however, he rejected and became captain of a patri- 
otic company, although at the time he was exempt from military duty, 
being more than fifty years old. He afterwards was one of the Tryon 
county judges, and also served in the legislature, the last term of office 
being terminated bj' his sudden death in 1791. Many of the descendants 
of the Fonda family are still living in the village which bears their name. 

Douw Fonda, Myndert Wemple and Hendrick Vrooman were the 
purchasers of the Collins tract, which we have already described. 
Wemple and Vrooman also became settlers on the land and are there- 
fore included among the pioneers of the place. Peggy Wemple is 
said to have kept a tavern at Caughnawaga as early as IJ/S, and be- 
came a person of great influence. 

Nicholas Hanson settled on Tribes Hill about 1725, and Henry Han- 
son, as has been mentioned, was the first white child born in the town. 
Alexander White, who was the first sheriff of Tryon county, was also 
a pioneer and lived, according to tradition, on the site of the Fonda 
court-house. White was an aggressive tory at the beginning of the war, 
his conduct so offending the patriots that they drove him to Canada ; 
and returning the next year, he was promptly arrested by the vig- 
ilant committee of safety. He was succeeded as sheriff by John Frey. 





<:^:^^>^^x<>^^^^^^^^<^ 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 265 

Herman Visscher was one of the early pioneers and made his settle- 
ment on the Hanson track. In the same v'icinity also was William H. 
Brower. Michael StoUer was also a pioneer, and settled on the farm 
more recently occupied by his grandson. Henry Coleman was not only 
a pioneer, but also a revolutionary soldier, and fought at the battle at 
Stone Arabia. John Chaley who settled near Tribes Hill was also a 
patriot soldier, but found himself arrayed against his own brother, the 
latter being with the British. Lodowick Putnam is also to be named 
among the pioneers of the town. It was upon his house that Sir John's 
raiders made the first assault after leaving Johnstown, and they cruelly 
murdered both himself and one of his sons. Amasa Stephens lived in 
the same neighborhood, and he, too, fell a victim of Indian barbarity. 
Mark Doxtader (descendants of this pioneer spelled the name Dock- 
stader) settled in Mohawk at an early daj', on the farm now occupied 
by Delavan Briggs. Colonel John Butler and his son Walter were early 
settlers, and both became prominent followers of the Johnsons, being, 
like Sir John, guilty of many of the outrages perpetrated in the valley. 

During the revolution the territory now included in Mohawk was 
the scene of many historic events, some of which were of a very thrill- 
ing character. The inhabitants of the valley were divided in sentiment, 
a few being allied to the Johnsons, and therefore sustaining British in- 
terests, while the majority was true to the American cause. Even 
before the outbreak of the war there was a conflict of opinion, but no 
open rupture took place until precipitated by Guy Johnson in his sup- 
pression of the patriot convention at Caughnawaga in the spring of 
1775. This was the beginning of actual hostilities in this locality, and 
the people who had formerly been all united, were thenceforth at 
enmity, the "loyalists " (as the tories called themselves) being arrayed 
against the patriots, the latter being styled "rebels" by the former. 
At this time, however, Guy Johnson and a large body of tories and 
Indians departed for Canada, followed in 1776 by Sir John and his ad- 
herents, which left but few of the tory element in the valley. Those, 
however, who did remain were carefully watched by the Committee of 
Safety, and it was only on the occasion of a British invasion that they 
displayed open enmity. The Mohawk committee to which we have 
referred was composed of John Marlett, John Bliven, Abraham Van- 



266 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Home, Adam Fonda, P'rederick Fishtr (formerly called Vissclier), 
Sampson Sammons, Wm. Schuyler, Volkert Veeder, James McMaster 
and Daniel Lane. A number of this committee, it will be noticed, lived 
within the present limits of the tow n. 

Frederick Fisher (or Vibscher) was an influential man in the Caugh- 
nawaga region, and was earl)- commissioned colonel of the patriot 
militia. He, too, was made to feel the wrath of the Johnsons on the 
occasion of a parade and review of the troops. Sir John first attacked 
Fisher with his cane, but meeting with unexpected resistance, resorted 
to his sword and threatened to strike. Failing to intimidate the col- 
onel by this means, he next procured his pistols and demanded the dis- 
missal of the regiment, threatening to shoot him if not obe3ed. Even 
these unusual demonstrations failed to frighten the assembled patriots, 
whereupon Sir John much chagrined returned to his carriage and rode 
away. 

Prominent among the true men of the day was Sampson Sammons, 
born in 1742 in Greenwich (now part of New York city), who came to 
this locality from Ulster county, in 1769. He is mentioned as a man 
of unusual mental power, and well qualified for that position ot in- 
fluence and popularity which he gained among the settlers of the valley. 
He had a friendly acquaintance with the Johnsons, but their influence 
never abated his loyalty to the American cause. His family were 
ardent Whigs and as such suffered in person and property from the 
barbarity of Sir John and his followers. In 1780 Sampson Sammons 
and his sons, Jacob, Frederick and Thomas, were all made prisoners, 
but the father and Thomas were released, while the others, as well as a 
number of horses belonging to the father, were taken to Canada. 
Sampson Sammons was a volunteer in the battle atOriskany and Jacob 
was also there. After the departure of Sir John the committee of 
sequestration leased Johnson Hall and its estate to Sampson Sammons, 
at a rent of 300 pounds per annum. The village of Sammonsville is 
named in honor of the pioneer family. 

The varied events which fill the history of this locality during the 
war have been so fully stated in our earlier chapters, that they need no 
repetition. Sir John's raid in 1780, however, was ot so fearful a char- 
acter, and had such an enduring effect upon the whole valley, that it 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 267 

seems proper to renew part of its detail. After leaving Johnstown the 
force sent against Tribes Hill was led by Henry and William Bovven, 
who had lived in the vicinity and well knew its people Tliey passed 
the tory settlement at Albany Busli (near Johnstown) and made their 
first attack on the house of a stiunch Whi^^ n.irned Putnam against 
whom they bore a special enmity. Putn:un, howevei', had recently 
rented his place, its tenants being torics, and these were murdered 
by the Indians before their identity was known. All the buildings 
were burned, even those at Caughnawaga, the sole exception being the 
church. 

The raiders next assailed the house of Colonel Fisher, whose wife 
with two of their children were at this time in Schenectady. The 
women and servants fled to the woods, but the old patriot himself and 
his brothers Herman and John, defended the house as long as they had 
ammunition and finally retired to the chambers. John was killed after 
a stubborn fight with the savages. Herman leaped from an upper 
window, hoping to extinguish the flames started by the Indians, but 
while on a fence he was shot dead. Colonel Fisher himself was knocked 
down, tomahawked and scalped, and then left for dead. He recovered, 
however, and rescued his aged mother from the house, carried out his 
brother's body, and then fell exhausted to the ground. As soon as the 
Indians had gone one of the negro servants returned to the house and 
brought water to revive his prostrate master. Colonel Fisher event- 
u.dly recovered, and after the war built a spacious house i on the same 
site and continued in |jrominent service, being several years county 
judge. He always wore a silver plate on his head to cover the scar 
of the scalping knife. 

One of the principal points of attack-, ne.xt to the Fisher house, was 
the residence of Adam Fonda, who like Colonel Fisher had fought 
at Oriskany, where he held the rank of lieutenant-colonel. He was 
seized and taken to Canada and the house was burned and the fani- 

' Alfred De Graff, descendant in the fifth generation from Colonel Fisher, who occupies this 
house, has reconstructed it with such improvements as to render it one of the most beautiful 
places in the Mohawk valley. Mr. De Graff has among other heirlooms a silver dollar which has 
been in the possession of the family more than a century and a half. Had it been placed at inter- 
est at the time referred to it would have yielded to the owner the enormous amount of $15,000. If 
the reader doubts this statement let him make the calculation. The date on this coin is 1729, three 
years before the birth of Washington. 



268 HISTORY OK MOXTGO.\rERY COUNTY. 

ily scattered, but afterwards they made their way to Schenectady. 
Before the house was burned one of the tories stole a hirge and 
massive copper tea kettle, which he filled with butter and hid under 
the bridge, expecting to recover it on his return, »but their march led 
in another direction, and the kettle remained there until discovered 
and restored to its owner. Mrs. Sarah Striker, of Tribes Hill, who is 
a granddaughter of Lieutenant- Colonel Fonda, has this very kettle, 
which is a highly valued heirloom. 

After the war Lieutenant- Colonel Fonda returned and built a farm- 
house, which is still standing, though remodeled and modernized. 
He died in 1808 highly respected, and was the last of the sons of old 
Douw Fonda. 

After the destruction and slaughter at the Fisher house and Caughna- 
waga, the invaders returned to Johnstown and thence to Canada. 
This, however, was not the only invasion of the valley during the 
war, and the constant danger kept the inhabitants in constant trepi- 
dation. Sir John twice invaded the region, and the Indians under 
either Butler or Brant, took every opportunity to renew their depre- 
dations. 

On the return of peace the former inhabitants of the Caughnawaga 
region returned to their farms, rebuilt their houses and barns and at once 
began to retrieve their losses. The tories came also and sought to reclaim 
their property, but the committee of safety made such earnest opposi- 
tion that they were obliged to seek homes elsewhere. Their lands had 
been confiscated and purchased by a new class of settlers from New 
England, who thenceforth mingled with the Dutch and rapidly improved 
the whole Mohawk valley Caughnawaga after the war became a busi- 
ness centre, but retained many of the ancient memorials of colonial 
times. The old stone church remained unscathed, this being due to the 
facs that it was considered Butler property and hence wafe spared by the 
tories and Indian invaders.^ It was built in 1763 and its first pastor 
was Rev. Thomas Romeyn. In 1795 he was succeeded by Rev. Abra- 
ham Van Home, who died in 1840, at an advanced age. He preached 
both in Dutch and English and during his ministry he matried 1,500 

1 The church was built on lands belon^ng to the Butler estate and the dwelling occupied by 
this once lordly family is still standing, being now the Wilson farm house. 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 269 

couples. In 1845 ^^^ o'd church was remodeled and fitted up for an 
academy, but it was not adapted to that service and in 1868 it was de- 
molished. 

A prominent memorial of old Caufjhnawaga is the Lasher house, a 
substantial duelling built by Jelles Fonda. Its location is on the 
heights which gives it a fine prospect, and no doubt this led to the se- 
lection of the site. The building, notwithstanding its age, is of such 
strength that it bids fair to last another century. 

The events we have thus far narrated naturally belong to the history 
of Mohawk, though they occurred before the creation of the town. 
When peace returned a more permanent settlement began, and thence- 
forth the population rapidly increased until all of the farm lands were 
under profitable cultivation. There were two important events, how- 
ever, which contributed largely to the prosperity of the town of Mohawk, 
as well as that of the surrounding territory. One was the completion 
of the Erie canal in 1825, and the other the construction of the Utica 
and Schenectady railroad in 1835 and 1836. All along these great 
thoroughfares prosperous villages were built with varied manufacturing 
and mercantile enterprises. The county seat hitherto had been at 
Johnstown, a village accessible only by stage, and the people of the 
valley were asking for its removal to some more convenient location. 

In 1836 the removal was effected, and Fonda was designated as the 
future county capital. 

This removal awoke great dissatisfaction among the inhabitants of the 
northern part of the county, which led to the creation of Fulton in 1838, 
but during the previous year an act was passed dividing the town of 
Johnstown out of which the town of Mohawk was erected. 

The town contains an aggregate area of 20,222 acres, and had when 
created a population of about 3,000. In i860 the population was 
3,136, and in 1890 a trifle less. During the last thirty years there has 
been no striking increase in population, except in Amsterdam, where 
the growth has been rapid, elevating the former village into a populous 
city. 

To return to Mohawk we may now properly add a list of supervisors 
and clerks from the creation of the town to the present time. 

Supervisors. — Wm. T. Sammons, 1837; Simeon Sammons, 1838; 
Lyndes Jones, 1839-40; Abraham P. Graff, 1841-42; Daniel Conyne, 



270 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COCTNTY. 

1843-46; John I. Davis, 1847-50; Simeon Sammons, 185 1; Abijah 
Jones, 1852; James W. Kline, 1853; Peter Fritciier, 1854; Seth C. 
Merrihew, 1855-56; Matthew Van Deusen, 1857; Henrj' Veeder, 1858; 
Hamilton Schuyler, 1859; Simeon Sammons, 1860-62; Douw A. 
Fonda, 1863-64; Henry T. E. Brovver, 1865; Thomas S. Sammons, 
1866-70; Edward B. Cushney, 1871-72; John D.Campbell, 1873; 
Stephen Fonda, 1874-76; Matthew D. Moore, 1877; George Jones, 
1S78; Isaac A. Rosa, 1879-82; Henry R. Royce, 1883-84; Stephen 
Fonda, 1S85; John Peek, 1886; Isaac A. Rosa, 1887-88; Jerry S. 
Sitterly, 1889; Isaac A. Rosa, 1890-91; George Jones, 1892. 

Town Clerks. — Christopher Y. Hammond, 1837; Samuel B. Thorn, 
'838-39; Alexander Haggert. 1840; Myndert B. Wendell, 1841-42; 
Julian Fish, 1843; John L. Lingenfelter, 1844; David F. Hess, 1845; 
J. Dillenbeck, 1846-47; J. S. Haggert, 1848-49; Garrett H. Teller, 
1850; D. H. Van Heusen, 1851; Henry \V. Staats, 1852-54; John 
C. Ausman, 1855 ; H. VV. Staats, 1856; Willett Ferguson, 1857 ; Giles 
Doxta-ter, 1858; Lewis Ferguson, 1859-60; Henry R. Royce, 1861 ; 
Giles Doxtater, 1862; David H. Van Heusen, 1863; John V. Davis, 
1864-65 ; David H. Van Heusen, 1866; Abram Fonda, 1867 ; Daniel 
C. Hagar, 1868-70; Jacob Hess, 1871-72; Daniel Yost, 1873; Mat- 
thew D. Moore, 1874-75; George McNeill, 1876; George L. Davis, 
1877-79; Henry R. Royce, 1880; Gideon R. Casler, 1881-84; Wal- 
lace Brown, 1885-86; John S. Van Home, 1887; William Tiffany, 
1888; John M. Brown, 1889; G. A. Putman, 1890-91 ; Charles A. 
George, 1892. 

Present Town Officers. — George Jones, supervisor; Charles A. George, 
town clerk; Frederick Fisher, Darius V. Berry, Isaiah Sponenberg, 
George W. Brown, justices of the peace; Charles Christance, highway 
commissioner ; James H. Neahr, collector ; William Lentz, overseer of 
the poor; Jacob Young, William T. Lotridge, Julian Fox, assessors; 
Richard W. Schuyler, auditor. 

THE VILLAGE OF FONDA. 

Previous to 1835 the principal part of this village was on the site of 
old Caughnawaga, but Fonda superseded the latter when the removal 
of the public buildings took place. During the same year a number of 




Aiidnuc rtioiisnuio Ikhu^'amnp CJ^t Y 



^^^V^X^ 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 271 

capitalists, among whom were John S. Borst, John L. Graham, James 
L. Graham, Judge S. W. Jones, Charles McVean and James Porter, or- 
ganized the Fonda Land Association, and purchased a considerable 
tract of land, now occupied by the county buildings and the business 
portion of the village. For the purpose of making improvements the 
company borrowed a large sum from the Farmers' Loan and Trust 
Company of New York, with which, among other structures, was built, 
in 1836, the Fonda hotel, which is still standing, although frequent 
changes in its name have been made. However promising this scheme 
may have appeared, it resulted in disaster ; the mortgage held by the 
Trust Company was foreclosed, the property sold, and Mr. Borst, who 
was the chief manager of its early affairs, became sole owner and pro- 
prietor, subject to heavy claims which eventually exhausted his re- 
sources. 

On the completion of the railroad a depot was built, and Fonda be- 
came an important station, while the erection of the public buildings 
added the dignity of the county capital. During the next twenty years 
the village steadily increased until it absorbed old historic Caughna- 
waga. As has been stated, Jelles Fonda was the first merchant doing 
business in this region. In 1790 General Dodge started in trade, but 
soon afterward moved to Johnstown. The firm of M. O. Davis & Son 
was established in 1845, and the old familiar name is still seen on Main 
street. Peter Conyne has also been many years in trade, and other rep- 
utable houses are in operation, but it is hardly necessary to here recall 
the names of the present merchants as that subject is full)' covered in 
our personal sketches. 

Incorporation of the Village. — In 1850, upon the petition to the Court 
of Sessions at the September term, an order was made incorporating the 
village, subject to the approval of the electors. The order bore the 
date of September 3, and named as petitioners Chester S. Bromley, 
John S. Haggart and Richard H. Cushney. The people confirmed the 
order at an election held October 4, the total vote being seventy-eight, 
of which only three were against the measure. The first village elec- 
tion was held on May 13, 1851, pursuant to an act of the legislature, at 
which time the following officers were chosen: Richard H. Cushney, 
R. Van Heusen, P. H. Fonda, Charles Timmerman and Douw Van 



272 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

O'Linda, trustees ; John Everson, William B. Van Heusen and Gilbert 
S. Van Duesen, assessors ; Henry W. Staats, collector ; Henry Van 
O'Linda, clerk. The village, according to survey, included 312 acres. 
In 1868 the main streets were paved, and in 1865 a bridge ^ was built 
across the Mohawk, which was a very great convenience to the resi- 
dents of Fonda and FultonvilJe. 

With the gradual growth of the village there arose a demand for a 
supply of pure and wholesome water; the project was sustained by a 
popular vote and in 1885 the work was done. A reservoir was built on 
a suitable eminence, and being well fed by springs, the village is supplied 
by pipes laid through the principal streets. The cost of the entire work 
was $25,000 and the waterworks are under control of a board of com- 
missioners. 

Manufactures have been introduced, but thus far only to a limited 
extent. The earliest efforts in manufacturing (aside from the domestic 
loom) were made in 181 1, when the waters of the Cayadutta were 
utilized. Grist- mills were built at various places, and about the same 
time a fulling mill was started by John and Simon Veeder, Henry Fon- 
da, G. Van Dusen and Myndert Wemple, with a capital of $5,000. At 
a later day Simon I. Veeder occupied the building and turned it into a 
satinet factory. He was here five years, and in 1830 sold the property 
to John Booth, who died in 1843, after which Van Alstyne and Wem- 
ple altered the building into a threshing machine factory. In i860 the 
property passed into the hands of George F. Mills & Co., who were 
owners of an adjacent flour-mill, by whom the old factory was equipped 
for similar use. A few years ago the leading citizens subscribed a large 
sum to start a knitting- mill, which was built and operated by John and 
Robert Owen until destroyed by fire. Later on a similar mill was 
erected by a company having a capital of $52,000, but the enterprise 
proved unsuccessful. Still later James Shanahan became its owner, and 
it is now operated b)- him in company with John E. Ashe and William 
S. Briggs. A very important feature in the industries of the village 

* The first bridge across the river, at Caughnawaga was chartered and constructed in iSii, but 
was carried away by the next spring freshet. The second bridge was built by a company chartered 
in 1823, the work being completed in 1824. This bridge, like that preceding it, was swept away by 
the flood of March 17, 1865. The present Fultonville and Fonda bridge was built during the sum- 
mer of the last mentioned year. It is free, but those of earlier years exacted tolls. 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 27» 

are the custom flour and feed and also the roller flour mills of G. F. 
Mills & Co., also the flour mill operated by R. H. Smith, all of which 
are on the Cayadutta ; also the paper mill, on the same stream. These, 
with a large and successful cheese factory, comprise nearly all there is 
in the line of manufactures, but it is highly probable that with such 
natural advantages the place will eventually become an extensive centre 
of industry. Fonda indeed has a very promising prospect in the 
future. The new court-house is a fine addition to its architecture, and 
the electric road adds much to its facilities. 

Church History. — The Reformed Church of Fonda. — In 1763 the 
Reformed Dutch church of Caughnavvaga was built, by the voluntary 
contributions of the settlers, among whom Sir William Johnson must 
be mentioned as a large donor. The structure was of stone, " standing 
with the southern gable to the street (the old turnpike), the steeple be- 
ing on the rear end of the roof It was lighted by eight windows and 
fronted eastward." On a stone tablet over the door was an inscription 
in Dutch as follows : " Come ye and let us go up to the mountain of 
the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob, and He will teach us His 
ways and we will walk in His paths." 

The interior of the old church is best described by quoting from a 
historical sermon delivered by Rev. Thomas W. Jones in 1873. "It 
had a gallery upon its front side and across the ends. The pulpit, just 
large enough to admit one person, was on the west side, directly in front 
of the entrance door, and over it was a sounding board. On the left 
side of the door was a large square pew, which was said to have been 
occupied in his day by Sir William Johnson and his family. The por- 
tion under the north gallery was furnished with temporary benches de- 
signed to seat the Indian and negro slave worshipers." 

The first pastor of the church, as has been stated, was Rev. Thomas 
Romeyn, whose services began in 1772, at which time the consistory 
was as follows : Elders, Peter Conyne, Johanes Kilts, Johanes Veeder, 
Frederick Dockstader; deacons, Adam Fonda, Louis Clement, Samp- 
son Sammons, Charles Van Eps. Mr. Romeyn died in 1794, and was 
followed in the pastorate in 1795 by Rev. Abraham Van Home, the 
consistory then being as follows : John Fonda, Garret Van Vrakelin, 
Joseph Printup, and Frederick Staring, elders ; James Lansing, Abra- 



274 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ham Vosburgh, Johanes Van Antwerp, and Peter Quackenbush, dea- 
cons. The pastors of the church after Mr. Van Home and until the 
edifice became private property, were as follows: Robert A. Ouinn, 
called in 1833 < Jacob D. Fonda, 1835. The society became indebted 
to Mr. Fonda for pastoral services, to secure which he purchased the 
church and parsonage for $1,300 (the amount of his claim), and after- 
wards sold it to Rev. Douw \'an O'Linda. The latter used the church 
as an academy, but after two or three years it was occupied as a dwell- 
ing. Later on it was purchased by Henry Veeder, and in 1868 it 
was demolished. 

In 1843 the society built a church at the southwest corner of Rail- 
road avenue and Centre street, which was dedicated in October of that 
year. Professor Andrew Yates of Union College supplied the pulpit 
about two years, followed in 1884 by the fifth pastor. Rev. Douw Van 
O'Linda. The latter was succeeded in 1859 by Rev. Philip Furbeck, 
who resigned in 1862. From that time until 1865 the pulpit was sup- 
plied by different clergymen, a large part of the time by Washington 
Frothingham. " During this period an important action was taken by 
this church, which materially changed the policy of its government, viz. : 
the establishment of a Board of Trustees for the purpose of relieving the 
consistory in the management of its temporal concerns." 

The seventh pastor was Rev. John C. Boyd, settled in 1865, during 
whose pastorate (1868) the church was moved to its present location 
and substantially remodeled. Rev. Thomas W. Jones became pastor in 
November, 1870, and continued his labors until April, 1883, when he 
was succeeded by the present pastor, Rev. John A. De Baun. The 
present membership of the church is about 430. 

From 1763 until 1883 this church was known as the Reformed Dutch 
church of Caughnawaga, but in the last mentioned year, by an order of 
the court the name was changed to " Reformed Church of Fonda." 

Zion Church, Protestant Episcopal. — The removal of the public 
buildings from Johnstown to Fonda led a number of Episcopal families 
to seek a residence in the new countj- seat, where Rev. John Noble, an 
Episcopal clergyman, frequently held services. Later on the rector of 
the Johnstown parish performed the same dut}', but it was not until 
about 1864 that Zion parish was organized, with a small number of com- 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 275 

municants. The church was begun in 1866, and was consecrated in 
May, 1869. A rector was in service during its early existence, but for 
many years it has chiefly depended on the Johnstown church for its 
clerical supplies. The present communicants number about thirty eight. 
The wardens are Richard H. Cushney and Henry T. E. Brower ; 
vestrymen, Henry B. Cushney, Giles H. F. Van Home, Edward B. 
Cushney, William Fonda, Robert Agnew, John S. Van Home, Richard 
N. Casler, Henry Siver. 

The Methodist Episcopal church of Fonda was organized in 1842 
under charge of Rev. T. W. Fierson, during whose pastorate the first 
church home was secured. Later on the society built a frame edifice, 
which, to meet the growth of the congregation, has been twice enlarged, 
and was substantially rebuilt in 1878. The membership of the church 
is about 150, and the Sabbath-school about 100. Connected with the 
church are the Ladies' Aid Society and the Epworth League, the 
latter having 100 members. 

The pastors of the church, with the years of their service, have been 
as follows: T. W. Fierson, 1842; S. Hart, 1843; Daniel Faige, 1844- 
45; Myron White, 1846-47; Horace Warner, 1848; G. C. Simmons, 
1849-50; W. W. Fierce, 185 I ; A.W.Garvin, 1852-53; James Tubbs, 
1854; Selah W. Brown, 1855-56; A. Wilmot, 1857 ; John Fegg, 1858 ; 
H. C. Sexton, 1859; A. Champlain, 1S60; Robert A Meredith, 1861 ; 
ZebulonFhillips, 1862: Jonah Phillips, 1863; M. A. Canoll, 1864; H. 
L. Grant, 1865-67; P. P. Harrower, 1868-69; H. L. Starks, 1870-72; 
M. A. Veeder, 1873-74 ; B. F. Livingston, 1875-77 ; E. A. Blanchard, 
1878; Damas Brough, 1879-81; Milton Tator, 1882-83; George W. 
Brown, 1884-86; L. A. Dibble, 1887-88; J. W. Ouinlan, 18S8-91 ; 
George W. Brown, 1892. 

St. Cecilia's Church (Roman Catholic). — Previous to 1882 this was a 
mission in charge of the Johnstown pastor, although the church on 
Main street was built in 1876, but even as far back as the building of 
the railroad and the canal. Catholic services were held in private dwell- 
ings, and by priests who journeyed to this locality from Albany and 
Troy. The reader will also learn by reading our previous chapters that 
the Jesuits prosecuted their missionary labors at old Caughnawaga dur- 
ing the seventeenth century. Hence we must conclude that the Roman 



276 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Catholics were the first to visit this field, although their labors were in 
no manner connected with the present church. In 1882 a resident 
priest was sent to Fonda and St. CeciHa's parish was then created. It 
now numbers about eighty families, and the pastors of the parish (which 
includes Tribes Hill) have been Rev. F. D. McGuire, appointed July 9, 
1882 ; Rev. J. J. O'Brien, November 11, 1882 ; Rev. James Flood, ap- 
pointment not given, and Rev. John W. Dolan, who was appointed June 
26, 1888. 

The Mohawk River Bank was organized in 1859, with a capital stock 
of $100,000. The first board of directors comprised Daniel, David, 
George, James, Livingston, Joseph and Fraser Spraker, Abraham J. 
Davis, Richard H. Cushney, William B. Dievendorf, Isaac S. Frost, 
Simeon Snow and John Bowdish. The officers were Daniel Spraker, 
president; John Bowdish, vice-president; Earl S. Gillett, cashier, and 
Horace Van Evera, teller. The bank was organized and did business 
under the state law from its inception until 1865, and was then reorgan- 
ized under the United States law by the name of National Mohawk 
River Bank. The old officers and directors continued in their respect- 
ive positions, and the capital also remained unchanged. The bank has 
a surplus of $30,000, and from its beginning has averaged an annual 
dividend of ten per cent. The present officers are Daniel Spraker, pres- 
ident ; Richard H. Cushney, vice-president ; J. Ledlie Hees, cashier, 
and J. J. Veeder, teller. Directors, Daniel Spraker, Frazer Spraker, 
B. F. Spraker, Richard H. Cushney, John H. Starin, and Jacob Dieven- 
dorf. 

Newspapers. — The first ne\\ spaper published in this town was the 
Mohawk Fariner, indefinitely mentioned as having been printed at 
Caughnawaga " at an early day," but whence it came and whither it 
went has never been put on record. 

In 1836, with the removal of the county seat, the Johnstown Herald 
was also brought to Fonda, a paper owned and published by Philip 
Reynolds, who changed its name to Fonda Herald, and continued its 
publication four or five years, then selling to William S. Hawley. In 
1843 't was bought by Matthew Freeman and Darius V. Berry, by 
whom the name was changed to Fonda Sentinel. In 1846 Mr. Berry 
retired from the office, and two or three years later Mr. Freeman sold 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 277 

to Jiinot J. Whitehouse, who in turn sold to Walter N. Clark. In the 
meantime the paper had been changed to Mohawk Valley Democrat, 
and was then edited by Isaac M. Gregory, i It afterward passed 
through several ownerships, among them being Clark & Thayer, Charles 
B. Freeman, Richard Van Antwerp, John E. Ashe, and by the latter it 
was sold in 1884 to Henry E. Ostrander, who is the present faithful 
editor and publisher. 

The American Star, was started at Canajoharie April 5, 1855, by 
William S. Hawley, and five weeks later moved to Fonda. In 1856 
the office was moved to Fultonville by C. B. Freeman, and the name of 
the paper changed to Mohawk Valley American, and it was united with 
the Sentinel. It afterward was fused into the Mohawk Valley Democrat. 

Tribes Hill. — This pleasant village is located on an elevated part of 
the Mohawk turnpike, half way between Fonda and Amsterdam. Its 
population has never been large, nor has it been noted for business, but 
it has an exceedingly interesting history, which has been in part pre- 
viously narrated. The lands in this vicinity were purchased by Hen- 
drick and John Hanson, the first deed being executed by the chiefs and 
sachems of the Mohawk Indians, and afterward granted by the crown 
(through Governor Hunter), July 17, 17 13, and contained two thousand 
acres. The Hansons settled here about the time the grant was 
made, and were therefore among the pioneers of the region. Henry 
Hanson is said to have been the first white child born north of the 
river. These early events, however, are so fully treated in an earlier 
part of this chapter that further allusion seems unnecessary. The name 
Tribes Hill was given to this locality many years ago, but no one knows 
its origin. Its population, though not large, is highly intelligent, and 
in this point it is in advance of many places more favored by business 
advantages. It is noted for bracing air and fine scenery, and this ren- 
ders it an attractive summer resort. Its public buildings include a new 

' Mr.Gregory's career since he left Fonda has been very successful He has edited the Schtnec. 
tady Star, also the Troy Prtss, and later on the Troy Whig. He was invited thence to become asso- 
ciate editor of the Rochester Chronicle and continued in this service a number of years after the paper 
fused with the ZJfw^r*-rt/, From Rochester he was invited to the Buffalo Express, where he made 
his mark and whence he was called to the Ehnira Free Press. Next came an invitation to the editor- 
ship of the (Iraphic. a New York illustrated daily, which he conducted successfully for about three 
years and then he became editor of the Judge, a position which he has held since 1886 to the present 
time. This is certainly an unusual record for one who beg^an as a type setter in a country office. 



278 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and spacious school-house and three churches, the broom factory and 
paper box factory. These, together with Bailey & Johnson's store and 
the small shops usually found in country villages, comprise its business 
interests, but a knitting-mill is to be erected, and this will be an im- 
portant addition to the place. 

The Presbyterian Church at Tribes Hill. — At a meeting held in the 
school-house, July 29, 1 841, it was resolved " to build a meeting-house 
for the convenience and accommodation of the Presbyterian Church 
Society and congregation at Tribes Hill and its vicinity," and in De- 
cember following, the society resolved to rent the " slips " in the " meet- 
ing-house " for one year. The first pastor of the church was Asa T. 
Clark, who was installed in the early spring of 1842, and remained 
about six years, being succeeded by Elnathan R, Atwater, who retired 
in December, 1850. Lewis M. Shepard became pastor May iS, 185 i, 
and two years later was succeeded by Morgan L. Wood, the latter re- 
maining but a short time on account of poor health. The next pastor 
was Peter J. Burnham, who was installed September 20, 1S53, and re- 
mained nearly two years, being followed by William J. McCord for six 
years. William J. Blaine was installed in 1862, and continued pastor 
about six years. Since January i, 1870, Washington Frothingham has 
supplied the pulpit, 

The Methodist Episcopal Church at Tribes Hill was organized in 
1863, D. W. Gates being the first pastor. The church was built dur- 
ing the year 1864, and was dedicated December 28. The succession 
of pastors is as follows : D. W. Gates, three years ; A. G. Dieven- 
dorf, 1866—68; M. D. Jump, two years; A. W. Smith, two years; 
C. A. S. Heath, one year; William M. Stanley, one year; S. Mc- 
Chesney, removed ; W. L. Wallace and G. H. La Grange, each two 
years. M. J. Osteyee has been appointed for the fourth 3'ear. 

The Roman Catholic parish at Tribes Hill was organized in 1882, 
and prior to that time the place was an out station of Amsterdam. 
The priests in charge of the church at Fonda have also conducted 
the services at Tribes Hill. The first was Rev. F. D. McGuire, fol- 
lowed in succession by J. J. O'Brien, James Flood and John W. 
Dolan. 

Schools. — To return to Fonda, previous to 1887 the schools of this 
place were conducted upon the same general plan as those of the 



TOWN OF MOHAWK. 279 

town at large. In the year above mentioned, however, upon the 
presentation of a petition. School District No. 6 was organized a.s the 
Union school, wliich, although a village institution, includes within 
its limits a larger area than that of the village itself. The first prin- 
cipal of the Union school was John H. Weinmann (now county 
school superintendent), who conducted it for five years, being suc- 
ceeded by Charles A. Coons, the present principal. The annual ex- 
pense of the school is about $5,200. Connected with it is a fine library 
of about fourteen hundred volumes, consisting of valuable historical 
works, with a judicious collection of fiction and miscellaneous books. 
The fund with which the library was purchased was raised by subscrip- 
tion, and an annual appropriation is made for its enlargement, added to 
which is an equal amount furnished by the state. The present district 
officers are Edward B. Cushney, chairman ; F"erguson Jansen, secretary ; 
John C. Boyd, visiting committee. 

The town of Mohawk is divided into ten school districts, being ar- 
ranged, so far as possible, with reference to the convenience of the 
inhabitants. These schools require fourteen teachers who have an aver- 
age daily attendance of 329, but the number of children is far greater. _ 
The aggregate value of school property is $26,295. 

Speaking of education, an important feature in this department is 
found in the Starin Industrial School, established by Mrs. John H. Starin, 
whose benefits are shared by Fonda, where Commodore Starin has pur- 
chased a building for the purpose. The object is the instruction of 
children according to their capacity, and to prepare them for future 
usefulness, and it has met highly encouraging success. The officers of 
the Fonda branch are as follows: Directors, Mrs. George F. Mills, as- 
sistant directors, Mrs. Edward B. Cushney, Mrs. John C. Boyd, Mrs. 
E. W. Richards, and Mrs. Alfred De Graff; treasurer, Miss Helen Simp- 
son ; secretary. Miss Helen Burtch ; teacher of calisthenics, Miss Ella 
Barron. 



HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

TOWN OF GLEN. 

THIS town, which lies directly south of the Mohawk, is bounded on 
the east by Schoharie creek (which separates Glen and Florida), 
on the south by Charleston, and on the west by Root. Its surface 
includes some beautiful flats, but consists principally of uplands, descend- 
ing by abrupt declivities to the narrow intervales along the streams. 
Auries creek, which has its source in the northwestern part of Charles- 
ton, flows in a northeasterly direction and empties into the Mohawk at 
Auriesville. It was named in memory of an Indian warrior known as 
" Aaron," which in Dutch is " Aurie." Irish creek, which is the only 
other important stream, flows in a northeasterly direction and empties 
into the Schoharie. An interesting natural feature of the town is a 
chalybeate spring located about one mile east of Glen village, in which 
neighborhood many attempts have been made to find iron ore, but with- 
out success. The water from the spring is very cold and refreshing, 
and contains iron and sulphur in moderate degrees, sufficient, however, 
to render it healthful. Another very curious feature in this town is an 
almost perpendicular bluff on Schoharie creek two miles from its mouth 
and known by the Indian name of " Cadaughrita." The face of this 
bluff towards the creek forms one side of a hill about fifty feet high, 
almost perfectly level on top, with a diamond shaped surface of nearly 
three acres. All sides of the hill are equally precipitous. The soil in 
most portions of the town is a loam mixed with clay. The farmers for 
many years devoted themselves almost entirely to dairying, and as a 
result many cheese factories were built, but of late the high prices paid 
for hay has led to the general cultivation of that crop, which is now the 
principal product. 

Glen was formed from Charleston, April lO, 1823, and named in 
honor of Jacob Saunders Glen, formerly a prominent man of the town, 
and a patentee of ten thousand acres within its limits. This entire area. 





f-^,<tpj(^ aC 



{^>^*y*^^X 



TOWN OF GLEN. 281 

including that of the towns of Cliarleston and Florida, constituted the 
Mohawk district until 1788, and also the town of Mohawk until 1793, 
when the territory east of Schoharie creek became Florida, and that 
west became Charleston. 

The early land patents comprising portions of the present town of 
Glen included the following: Meebee patent, 80 acres, located near the 
Cadaughrita, granted to John Peterson Meebee, July 20, 1705 ; and 
another tract of 600 acres, granted to his brother Peter, April 1 5, 1726 ; 
the two Scott patents, one of 1,500 acres, granted to Lieut. John Scott, 
October 22, 1722 ; and another granted to his son and namesake, June 
23, 1725, containing 1,100 acres; the two Ten Eyck patents of 1,500 
and 185 acres, granted April 29, 1726, and April 20, 1761, to Hendrick 
Ten Eyck ; the Shuckburgh patent of 1,280 acres granted to Richard 
Shuckburgh and Jacobus Van Dyke, May 28, 1755 ; the Visger patent, 
of 900 acres, granted to Johannes Visger, February 25, 1726; Corry's 
patent, of 25,400 acres, granted to William Corry, George Clark and 
others, November 19, 1737 ; and the Aurieskill patent, of 10,000 acres, 
granted to James De Lancey and four others, November 12, 1737. 

First White Settlement. — It is supposed that the Mabie (Meebee) 
brothers, who obtained the first of the above mentioned patents, moved 
on to the land soon after 1705, and hence were the first permanent white 
settlers in Glen. The next pioneer of whom there is any record was 
Peter Quackenboss, one of three brothers who emigrated from Holland 
to New York early in the eighteenth century. Quackenboss located 
on part of Captain Scott's patent, only two or three years after it was 
granted. He resided for many years at the old Leslie Voorhees place 
near Auries creek, and had several children, all of whom were grown 
to mature years when he first came to this country. The story of the 
romantic courtship of his eldest son, David, who married Ann, daugh- 
ter of Captain Scott, is still remembered by some of the older residents 
of the town. The wooing was romantic, inasmuch as David, while ply- 
ing the suit of a young officer under Scott's command (like Jolin Alden), 
unconsciously gained the young lady's affections himself A result 
of the union thus accomplished was a son, born in 1725, which was 
named John, and is supposed to have been the first white child born on 
the south side of the river, between Fort Hunter and the Canajoharie 
settlements. 
36 



282 HISTORY OF MONTGO-NfERT COUNTY. 

The pioneer settlers of Glen included sixteen Irish families brought 
hither about 1740, under the patronage of William Johnson, after- 
ward baronet. They were located on lands a few miles southwest of 
Fort Hunter, owned by Henr\- Shelp and comprising a part of the Cor- 
ry patent. These families did not remain long, however, for disturb- 
ances arising among the Indians a few years later, led them to abandon 
their rude dwellings and return to Ireland. 

Richard Hotf, Marcus Hand, John Ostrom and Matthias Mount set- 
tled in the town previous to the revolution. Cornelius Conover and his 
son Isaac also located here about the same time, the former building a 
block-house for protection against the Indians. Seth Conover, who 
came from New Jersej-, was also a pioneer, settling in Glen about 17S5. 

Among those who located in the town during the closing years of 
the last century were J. R. Van Evera, John Van Derveer, John Ed- 
wards, and John H Voorhees. Still later additions to the population 
were the Vedders, Silmsers. \"rooman. Wood, Pruyn, Putman and 
Enders. 

George Cuck, a notorious tory who had often led the blood-thirsty 
scalping parties of Brant and Johnson, was captured in this town in the 
fall of 1779. He had not been seen in the country for some time and 
it was supposed that he had returned to Canada, but toward spring it 
became known that he was concealed at the house of John Van Zuy- 
ler, who lived near the residence of the late Major James Winne. The 
secret transpired through information imparted to James Cromwell, a 
young man who was paying attention to one of Van Zuyler's daughters. 
A party consisting of Lieutenant Ouackenboss, Isaac and Abraham 
Covenhoven, John Ogden, Jacob Collier, Abraham J., and Peter J. 
Quackenboss, Martin Gardinier, James Cromwell, Gilbert Van Alstj-ne, 
Nicholas Gardinier, Henry Thompson and Nicholas Ouackenboss sur- 
rounded the house, discovered Cuck's place of concealment and shot 
him. Van Zuyler was then arrested and sent prisoner to Albany. 

Many of the settlements in Glen suffered severely from the ravages 
of the revengeful tones and Indians in 17S0. 

Early Mills.— Vet^T and Simon Mabie built the first saw-mill and 
carding machine in the town, probably about 1797. The first grist-mill 
was erected about the same time by Peter Quackenboss. It stood 



TOWN OF GLEN. 28;? 

about a quarter of a mile from Auriesville on the bank of the creek, and 
the excavation made for the old race-way can still be seen. 

The first store in Glen of which any record can be obtained was kept 
by Abraham D. Quackenboss, who erected a building for that purpose, 
the brick being made on the premises. This store stood about two 
miles below the present village of Fultonville. By strict integrity and 
honest dealing with the Indians, who constituted the larger share of his 
patrons, Quackenboss built up a large business for those times, and 
when the revolution became imminent his Indian friends tried* to per- 
suade him to go with them to Canada. Their proposition was met by 
a prompt refusal, but so sincere was their respect for him that they 
solemnly resolved not to molest any portion of his goods or property. 
It appears, however, that during a raid, some time later, the Indians 
helped themselves freely to such of the contents of his store as were 
eatable, but did not harm the buildings. ■ Among the raiders was a man 
named Harrington, who had formerly been in Quackenboss's employ, 
and he, remaining behind, applied the torch to the store. When the 
Indians learned of this they were so incensed at the breach of compact, 
that a tomahawk was leveled at Harrington's head, and it is said one 
savage dealt him a terrific blow, but after further consultation he was 
allowed to live. 

John Rossa began business in the Quackenboss residence at the close 
of the war, and his was the only store in the town until John Smith be- 
gan trading on the site of Glen village in 1797. Other merchants will 
be mentioned in connection with the separate villages further on in this 
chapter. 

Schools, Past and Present. — John Hazard taught the first school in 
the town, this early place of learning being the house of Abraham D. 
Quackenboss, above mentioned. The school was opened shortly after 
the close of the revolution and at that time was the only one within a 
great distance. A very early school-house stood on the river road, 
near Mill Point, and its master, whose name was McCready, maintained 
strict discipline by the free use of the rod. Another school was erected 
at this point about 1820. The district school system was generally 
adopted throughout the state at the beginning of the present century, 
and since then there has been a gradual improvement both in impart- 



284 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ing instruction and also in physical culture. In the work of education 
Glen holds a very creditable position, the town being divided into nine 
school districts, with 690 children of school age, of which number 497 
are pupils, the average daily attendance is 264 and twelve teachers are 
employed, to whom the sum of $4,303.42 was paid in salaries during 
1891. The school libraries contain 680 volumes, their total value being 
$276, and the various school buildings are valued at $21,150. 

Civil Organization. — The first town meeting in Glen was held on 
the first Tuesday in April, 1823, at which time the following board of 
officers was elected : Supervisors, William Putman ; town clerk, Ebe- 
nezer Green ; assessors, James Vorhees, Thomas Van Derveer and 
Jacob F. Starin ; commissioners of highways, Jacob F. Lansing and 
Henry M. Gardinier; overseers of the poor, Elijah Mount and Christian 
Enders ; commissioners of schools, John C. Van Alstine and Howland 
Fish ; inspector of schools, Cornelius C. Van Home ; collector, Abra- 
ham Aumack ; constables, John C. Smith, William L. Hollady and 
Bement Sloan. 

The supervisors of the town from 1823 to the present time, and the 
dates of their service, are as follows: William Putman, 1823 ; Chris- 
tian Enders, 1824; Abraham V. Putman, 1825-28; Peter Wood, 1829- 
31; Abraham V. Putman, 1832-33; Peter Wood, 1834; James Win- 
ner, 183s; Harmanus Mabee, 1836-38; Peter Wood, 1839; Garrett 
Marlett, 1840; Abraham V. Putman, 1841 ; William B. Wemple, 1842- 
44; Garrett Enders, 1S45-47 ; Peter Van Evera, 1848-50; William 
B. Wemple, 185 I ; Peter Van Evera, 1852 ; Victor A. Putman, 1853-55 ; 
Lewis Van Epps, 1856; Victor A. Putman, 1857-58; Lewis Van 
Epps, 1859; Frothingham Fish, i860; Jacob Pruyn, 1S61 ; William 
H. Printup, 1862 ; Frothingham Fish, 1863; Victor A. Putman, 1864; 
L. J. Bennett, 1865; William H. Wemple, 1866-67; John K. Van 
Home, 1868-70; John O. Vedder, 1871-72; William R. Chapman, 
1873 ; Edward Wemple, 1874-76; Richard Winne, 1877-79; J. S. G. 
Edwards, 1880; John H. Morrison, 1881 ; William H. Baird, 1882-83 ; 
Jay H. Faulkner, 1884-85; Henry Johnson, 1886-88; Jacob J. 
Veeder, 1889; Richard Winne, 1890; John V. Putman, 1891-92. 

The town clerks during a corresponding period are as follows : 
Ebenezer Green, 1823-24; Jonathan Lee, 1825—28; John Ostrom, jr.. 



TOWN OF GLEN. 285 

1829-31; Jacob J. Enders, 1832-33; Garrett Marlett, 1834; John 
Hanchet, 1835-36; JohnVisher, 1837-39; Andrew J. Abel, 1840-41; 
John Perrin, 1842; Joseph Nolan, 1843-44; JohnVisher, 1845-48; 
William S. Smith, 1849-50; William H. Aumack, 1851-52; Jacob J. 
Enders, 1853-54; Joseph Noxon, 1855; Philip Pruyn, 1856; John 
Visher, 1857; Giles H. Mount, 1858-60; Richard Van Antwerp, 1861 ; 
Gilbert H. Manning, 1862 ; H. N. Vorhees, 1863 ; George Ehle, 1864; 
William H. Wemple, 1865; Charles H. Quackenbush, 1866-67; Peter 
D. Wood, 1868-69; Wellington Cross, 1870; Silias W. Horning, 
1 871; Charles J. Ostrom, 1872-73; John F. Clement, 1874; Delevan 
Polhamus, 1875; Bartholomew Foody, 1876; Seward Kline, 1877; 
Delevan Polhamus, 1878-79; Henry Johnson, 1880-81; Jacob J. 
Veeder, 1882-83; Peter McTaggart, 1884-85 ; Horace E. Hoag, 1886; 
Frank A. Perkins, 1887-88; John C. Marlette, 1889-90; Willis Baird, 
1891 ; F. S. Veeder, 1892. 

The principal town officers at present are : Supervisor, John V. 
Putman ; town clerk, Frank S. Veeder ; justices of the peace, H. H. 
Rulison, Richard Relyea, J. H. Ostrom and George M. Albot ; assess- 
ors, Nicholas Goodard, Peter H. Mabee and Adam D. Frank ; collector, 
Isaac J. Tallmadge. 

VILLAGES AND HAMLETS. 

Attriesvillc , situated at the mouth of the creek from which it takes its 
name, was the first collection of houses in Glen of sufficient importance 
to deserve the name of village. The grist-mill erected by Peter Quack- 
enboss within a quarter of a mile of this place shortly after the revolution, 
attracted the farmers for a long distance. Auriesville became the cen- 
tre of considerable trade about the beginning of the present century, 
when Robert Dunbar opened a store on the site of the village. A short 
time afterward, and prior to the completion of the canal, Jeremiah 
Smith engaged in trade at this point, carrying a large stock of goods, 
and doing a profitable business. John C. Van Alstine conducted a 
store in Auriesville from 1814 until 1855, and was postmaster for many 
years. The post-office was established there January 26, 1824, Allen 
H. Jackson receiving the first appointment. Among his successors have 



286 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

been John Hand, John C. Van Alstine, William Irving, David Wood, 
John C. Piitman, and the present incumbent, George J. Abel. 

A short distance east from Auriesville is a small private cemetery, 
surrounded by fir trees, which mark the graves of the parents of the 
late James Archibald, of Scranton, one of the ablest civil engineers of 
his day. He accompanied his parents from Scotland in early jouth, 
and was reared in Auriesville, whence he engaged in constructing the 
Delaware and Hudson canal under the superintendence of John B. Jer- 
vis. Mr. Archibald did more to open the early resources of nortliern 
Pennsylvania than any other man, and in addition to fhis distinction in 
science is his rare beauty of personal character. 

The Reformed Church of Auriesville was organized just prior to the 
middle of the present century, under the direction of Rev. Mr. Jukes. 
Among the pastors of this society was Rev. John Nott (a son of Presi- 
dent Nott, of Union College), and Rev. Francis M. Kip, the latter be- 
ing succeeded in 1883 by the present minister, Rev. John C. Boyd, 
whose residence is in Fonda. The society embraces about sixty com- 
municants, and has an active Sunday-school with 100 scholars, of which 
Milan Pierce is superintendent. 

A short distance east of Auriesville, on an eminence of ground, is 
located " The Shrine," a place of religious worship for adherents of the 
Roman Catholic faith. Pilgrimages are made to this spot by large 
numbers of Romanists during each season. The " Shrine " is supposed 
to mark the spot where a Jesuit missionar}- was killed by the Indians 
during the seventeenth century. 

Glen village, situated on the highlands four miles south of Fultonville, 
near the centre of the town, was settled during the closing years of the 
revolution, and was for a long time afterward known as Voorheesville. 
The first merchant at this place was John Smith, who opened a store 
there in 1797. Later on Peter Voorhees began business there, and 
from him the village took its early name. He afterwards removed to 
Lysander, and his son, Henry P. Voorhees, became a successful mer- 
chant in P'ultonville. 

The post-office at Glen was established May 19, 1823, and the first 
appointment was given to Cornelius H. Putman. His successors in- 
clude Jacob Burton, Hermon P. Maybee, William A. Kelley, John 



TOWN OF GLEN. 287 

Hanchet, Adam Smith, Alonzo Putman, William H. Steinberg, Philip 
Pruyn, John Visher, John V. S. Edwards, Joseph Noxon, Tunis Van 
Derveer and the present incumbent, Edward Edwards. 

There are two churches in the village, both of which sprang from the 
first Reformed Dutch Church of Glen, which was organized in 179S, 
the house of worship being soon begun but very slowly- finished, and 
services, indeed, were held in it while it was in progress. Edward Jenks 
was the first minister, and Peter Vrooman filled the office of deacon for 
many years. The old building was used until 1842, when it was re- 
moved by J. V. S. Edwards, and another erected in its place, meetings 
being held in the latter until 1876, when it was destroyed by fire and 
the present beautiful church erected. The Rev. Joseph Thyne, who 
resides in Johnstown, officiates at this church. 

The True Dutch Reformed Church of Glen resulted from a dissension 
in the above mentioned congregation, but is not flourishing at present. 
The last minister was Rev. N. A. Fish, of Albany, who officiated at the 
meetings of this society until his death. Mr. Lansing then led the 
meetings for a time, but advancing years finally compelled him to re- 
linquish his task, and no regular services are now held. 

Mill Point is situated on Schoharie creek, and in early times was the 
centre of considerable business. Francis Saltz settled directly opposite 
this place about the middle of the last century and together with " Boss " 
Putman purchased the Shuckburg patent of 1,200, acres on a portion of 
which Mill Point is located. He sold the site of the place to a son-in- 
law named McCready, disposing of another farm to a second son-in-law 
named George Young, and a third farm to his grandson, Francis Fred- 
erick. It is said that he conveyed two hundred acres of land to Peter 
Crush upon condition that the latter should marry his youngest daugh- 
ter, who was a cripple and unable to walk. Crush accepted, built a 
house on the tract and then carried his wife to it upon his back. 

Fultonville is the youngest village in Glen, but owing to its favorable 
location on the Erie canal, it long ago became the chief centre of trade 
and population, outstripping the older and more remote settlements. Its 
early importance as a trading point was due to the construction of the 
canal, by which coal and merchandise destined to points on the north 
side of .the river, and also in Fulton county, naturally found an outlet. 



288 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Later on Fultonville became the southern terminus of a plank road lead- 
ing to Johnstown and the building of the West Shore road has added 
much to its importance. 

The comfort and elegance which characterize the homes of the village, 
as well as the beauty of its streets and private grounds, are due to the 
good taste which forms so prominent a feature among its leading fami- 
lies. 

In revolutionary days the site of Fultonville was known as " Van 
Epp's Swamp," a large portion of the land being then owned by the 
Van Epps family, whose pioneer (Charles Van Epps) located here at a 
very early day. It may be said that even at the beginning of the pres- 
ent century the place had but little growth, but in 1795 John Starin es- 
tablished an inn on the bank of the Mohawk, a few rods south of the 
present bridge, and this seemed a beginning of future development. 
He was a grandson of Nicholas Starin, one of the pioneers of the valley, 
and was born near the present site of the village in 1750. He served in 
the revolution and so did eight other members of the family, a record 
of patriotism which is indeed rare. Some years later John Starin opened 
a store in connection with the inn. His son Myndert, born in 1787, 
carried the Johnstown mail on horseback, and as the circuit court was 
often held at his father's public house, he early gained a knowledge of 
general affairs. Upon the close of the war of 18 12, in which he partici- 
pated, he began a successful business in Johnstown, and later on re- 
moved to Sammonsville, but in 1822 various circumstances led him to 
return to his native place, and entering into partnership with Thomas 
Robinson, the firm of Starin & Robinson was formed. They purchased 
a large tract, including the present site of Fultonville, which was then 
laid out and named after Robert Fulton, the founder of steam naviga- 
tion. The firm embarked into various branches of industry, their plant 
including mills for sawing lumber, grinding grain, making paper, spin- 
ning wool and dressing cloth. The Erie canal, which was then in pro- 
cess of construction, led the firm to build a dry dock and boatyard, and 
thus the foundation of the present village was laid. 

The business interests of the place were increased in 1825 by Henry 
P. Voorhees, who established a store on the south bank of the canal. 
He was a native of Glen, having been born about 1794 near the settle 



TOWN OF GLEN. 289 

ment known as "Log Town." His father, Peter Voorhees, was for a 
number of years a successful merchant in Voorheesville, now called 
Glen village. Henry P. Voorhees was the leading merchant of Fulton- 
ville for many years, increasing his facilities for trade each year and gain- 
ing a wide reputation as well as making a fortune. He built a large 
store and also warehouses near the canal, and afterwards admitted to 
partnership William A. Mears who had long served him as a faithful 
clerk. Mr. Mears built a dwelling and was a successful business man, 
but is now passed away, leaving a happy memory. To return to Mr. 
Voorhees. He erected the mansion long known as the " Voorhees 
place " and remained in business until 1856, when advancing years led 
him to retire. He then removed to New Castle, Del., where the re- 
maining years of a long and busy life were passed. 

We may also mention in this connection a number of other firms who 
were engaged in business in the village during its early days and who 
will be remembered by some of the older residents. Among them 
were Clark & Post, Devoe & Martin, McArthur & McKinley, Plantz & 
Argersinger, Crumwell & Fink, Frisby & McConkey, Shuler & Wilcox, 
Blood & Conyne, Scott Campbell, S. F. Underwood, Starin & Freeman, 
L. V. Peek & Co., and Chapman & Fonda. Canal stores were also 
carried on at the lower end of the village by Peter Fonda and Henry 
Starin, and indeed the canal trade was in those days an important fac- 
tor in the prosperity of the place. 

Among the representatives of the medical profession during the open- 
ing years of the present century we recall the name of Dr. Alexander 
Sheldon, who was a man of much prominence. He was elected to the 
assembly in 1800, and afterwards re-elected for several terms, during 
which he frequently held the office of speaker. Other early physicians 
were Drs. Lathrop, Van Est, and Smith. Dr. Thompson Burton, a 
native of Charleston, after practicing several years in that town, located 
at Fultonville in 1846 and continued in service until his last illness. He 
was at the time of his death the oldest physician in the county. 

In the legal profession we recall Howland Fish, father of Judge Froth- 
ingham Fish, the latter still a resident of Fultonville, also Isaac H. Tif- 
fany, a native of Keene, N. H., who held a respectable rank and passed 
his declining years in Fultonville where lie died in 1859, aged eighty 
37 



290 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

years. He read law with Aaron Burr, but the majority of his profes- 
sional life was spent in Schoharie county. 

Fultonville is adorned by the magnificent residence and grounds of 
Commodore John H. Starin, which is the finest country seat in this 
state, west of the Hudson. Nature has done much, but art, and taste, 
and wealth have been required to give that perfection which marks this 
establishment. The grounds are thrown open to the public on certain 
days of the week by the generous proprietor, and the public improves 
the opportunity to enjoj' the flowers, statuaiy and prospect to which 
they are thus made welcome. 

The post office at Fultonville was established December I2, 1832, 
and William M. Gardinier received the first appointment. His succes- 
sors and the years in which thej' were appointed are Cornelius Gardi- 
nier, 1S41 ; William Sliuler, 1843; John H. Starin, 1849; W'iiliam 
Shuler, 1853 ; Giles H. Mount, 1861 ; J. H. Morrison, 1885 ; and Wil- 
liam Wiles, the present incumbent, who took charge of the office Octo- 
ber I, 18S9. 

Fultonville was incorporated by act of the legislature, June 19, 1S48, 
and the election of officers took place on the lOth of the ne.xt August. 
The first trustees were Andrew J. Yates, Howland Fish, William B. 
Wemple, Thomas R. Horton and Delancey D. Starin. The first clerk 
was Frothingham Fish. The present officers are Robert Wemple, presi- 
dent; William H. Wemple, W. A. Fuller, William Foody, trustees; 
Adam A. Snyder, collector ; O. F. Conable, treasurer ; and Frank S. 
Veeder, clerk. 

Among the notable public improvements which have taken place in 
recent }-ears may be mentioned the paving of Main street with wooden 
blocks from the bridge to the Reformed Church. The work was done 
during the summer of 1S91, and cost about $6,500, but it has given 
general satisfaction. 

The first bridge across the Mohawk connecting Fultonville and 
Caughnawaga was a low wooden structure, built in iSi i. It was swept 
away by high water and a ferry was used until 1823, when a covered 
bridge was built. The second structure was in use until March 17, 1865, 
when it also was carried away by a flood, and the present iron bridge 
was built during the following summer. The plank road between Ful- 



TOWN OF GLEN. 291 

tonville and Johnstown was constructed in 1849, but it has been discon- 
tinued between F"onda and Fultonville. 

The Reformed Protestant (Dutch) Church of Fultonville is the oldest 
religious body in the village, dating its organization from November 24, 
1838, when it was formed through the assistance of a delegation from 
the Caughnawaga church. The society rapidly increased and a house 
of worship was erected in November, 1839, on land bestowed for this 
purpose by the Potman family. The first pastor was Rev. David Dyer, 
who was succeeded by Rev. J. M. Van Buren. During the latter's pas- 
torate the church and its contents were destroyed by fire, after which 
services were held in the school-house for several years. Another house 
of worship was erected in 1856. Mr. Van Buren remained with the 
society until 1852 and was succeeded in the pastorate by the Rev. 
Ransford Wells, who came in 1857 and remained eleven years. Among 
his successors may be mentioned Revs. H. S. Teller, J. L. Kip, jr., and 
F. V. Van Vranken, the latter having just finished a successful pastorate 
of ten years, and accepted a call to Philmont. His successor is Rev. 
William Schmitz. The present membership of the society is about 130, 
connected with which is an active Sunday-school of which Giles H. 
Mount was superintendent for eight years and Rev. Mr. Van Vranken 
about three years. 

The Methodist Episcopal society of Fultonville was organized Janu- 
ary 31, 1854, with twelve members, and the present church was built 
during the same year. The first minister was Rev. N. G. Spaulding, 
and among his successors we may recall Revs. J. W. Carhart, Homer 
Eaton, F. Widmer, A. J. Dievendorf, H. D. Kimball, John Pegg, Eri 
Baker, D. Cronk, Harmon Chase, P. P. Harrower, J. P. Huller and F. 
P. Youlen, all of whom filled the pastorate of this church prior to 1878. 
In that year Rev. J. R. Truax was appointed to the charge, being fol- 
lowed in 1879 by Rev. C. W. Rowley. Rev. H. C. Baskerville came 
in 1880, and was succeeded by Rev. A. H. Nash in 1881. Rev. W. 
H. Hoag was pastor from 1884 until the appointment of Rev. E. C. 
Hoyt in 1886. The latter remained three years and was succeeded 
by the present incumbent. Rev. G. W. Easton, in 1890. The church 
has about seventy members and the Sunday-school 125 scholars, Lester 
Carson being superintendent. 



292 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERT COUSTTf. 

Cemeteries. — Fultonville has two beautiful cemeteries. One of these, 
situated on the hill southwest of the village, is a model of the landscape 
gardener's art, and was established by the citizens of the village in the 
fall of 1848. The ground was purchased from Garret Yates by a com- 
mittee composed of Henry P. Voorhees, Cornelius Gardinier, Everett 
Yates, Joseph Miller and Rowland Fish. The land was then laid out 
into suitable plots and sold at auction. Additional territory has since 
been purchased and the beauty and attractiveness of the place greatly 
enhanced by Commodore John H. Starin, who has also at great expense 
erected a magnificent mausoleum for his family. 

The Maple Avenue Cemetery association was formed in 1S73 and 
assumed the management of Maple Avenue Cemetery, a beautiful place 
of mortuary rest, situated on the hill about half a mile east of the vil- 
lage. The natural features of this ground have been increased by care- 
ful improvement, thus rendering it very attractive. 

Newspapers, past and present. — The Mofitgoviery County Whig, a 
weekly paper, was started at Fultonville in May, 1 840, by Flavius J. 
Mills and within a year was rented to Benjamin F. Pinkham, who con- 
tinued it until March, 1841. It then passed into the hands of Thomas 
R. Horton, who conducted it tlirough many vicissitudes for nearly 
forty-nine years, with the exception of two years during the late rebel- 
lion, when he left the paper in charge of his brother, J. \V. Horton. Its 
title was changed to \h& Montgomery County Republican in 1857, under 
which it is still published, having been purchased b}^ Abram D. Smith 
in September, 1890. Mr. Smith is a practical journalist, and has been 
rewarded in his efforts by the increase in circulation, which has doubled 
since it came under his control. 

The MoJiawk Valley American was edited and published in 1856 by 
Charles B. Freeman, who conducted it with a fair degree of success 
until 1864, when he purchased the Fonda Sentinel, and united the two 
papers under the name of the Mohawk Valley Democrat, whose publi- 
cation has been successfully continued. 

The Mjisonic order is represented in Fultonville by Fultonville Lodge, 
No. 531, F. & A. M. The present officers are William B. Wemple, 
W. M. ; G. L. Davis, S. W. ; A. Z. Wemple, J. W. ; Charles Rickard, 
treasurer ; F. H. Saunders, secretary ; Harry Empie, S. D. ; G. Ander- 



TOWN OP GLEJ^. 203 

son, J. D. ; F. Houbertz, S. M. C. ; D. C. Nellis, J. M. C. ; J. C. Gil- 
bert, tyler. 

The manufacturing and industrial interests of a village contribute so 
much to its general prosperity, that we now offer a brief view of these 
operations in Fultonville. The most extensive is the Starin Silk Fabric 
Company, of which Alfred De Graff is president. This enterprise was 
established several years ago and is now giving emplojment to upwards 
of 150 workers. 

The factory of Myers & Parker, who manufacture brooms and brushes 
in great variety, is located in the western part of the village near the 
river. This enterprise furnishes employment to about 100 workers. 

The Mohawk Valley Lumber Company operates a very extensive 
factory, which is under the supervision of James S. Burr. 

The foundry of William B. Wemple's Sons on the south bank of the 
canal is one of the oldest plants of its kind in Montgomery county. The 
firm of Wemple & Yates, which was established in 1S45, began business 
on the north side of the canal opposite the present works, and succeed- 
ing in part to the original foundry that had been carried on there since 
the beginning of inland navigation. In 1847 ^^^^ foundry was moved 
to its present quarters. Wemple & Yates were successively followed by 
Wemple, Yates & Co., William B. Wemple & Sons, and later by the 
present firm, which is composed of Nicholas, William H., and Edwin 
Wemple. The firm is engaged in general foundry work and the man- 
ufacture of iron water wheels. 

W. B. Cross & Co. operate the extensive flour and feed mills on the 
south bank of the canal, formerly conducted by P. Van Antwerp & Son, 
and furnishes employment to a number of men. 

The Fultonville National Bank was organized January i, 1883, and 
opened its doors for business on the 13th of March following, with a cap- 
ital of $50,000. The officers of the institution are John H. Starin, pres- 
ident ; Alfred De Graff, vice-president; Lorenzo V. Peek, cashier, and 
O. F. Conable, teller. 

One of the most important of the beneficent efforts, not only in Ful- 
tonville, but also in the Mohawk valley, is the Starin Industrial School 
founded by Mrs. John A. Starin for the purpose of instructing children 
according to their needs and capacity, and fit them for future usefulness. 



294 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

The president is Mrs. Frothingham Fish ; vice-president, Mrs. Isaac M. 
Davis, and secretary, Mrs. Lorenzo V. Peek. The institution has been 
in successful operation for several years, and its benefits have been widely 
shared, hundreds indeed of pupils having been in attendance. A branch 
of this school has been formed in Fonda, where Commodore Starin has 
recently purchased a building for the purpose. The commodore has 
also conferred on Fultonville a spacious and elegant free reading room 
with a large and well selected library, which is the resort of all who 
desire mental improvement. Both se.xes are equally welcome, and the 
goodly attendance shows how the institution is appreciated. The com- 
modore purchased a building for the purpose, now known as Cobble- 
stone Hall, and it has been adapted with both convenience and elegance 
to its present use. ^ 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

TOWN OF FLORIDA. 

IX 1772, soon after the creation of Tryon count)-, its territory was 
divided into districts, that partl}'ing most easterly being called Mo- 
hawk, which of course included the lands now forming this town. In 1788 
Mohawk itself was divided and formed into townships, the portion 
north of the river taking the name of Caughnawaga, and the south part 
retaining the original name of Mohawk. On March 12, 1793, the towns 
of Florida and Charleston were created from the mother township, by 
which action the old historic name was adandoned, and not again revived 
until 1S37. 

Florida includes all the lands of the county l)ing south of the Mohawk 
and east of Schoharie creek, and is the largest in area, except Root, of 
any of the towns of the county, containing 38,364 acres. The greater 

* The building thus referred to was erected by the late Jeptha R. Simms, the historian of the 
Mohawk valley, who there wrote his "Bordex Wars " which first gave him prominence. Later on 
he removed to Fort Plain where he passed the remainder of his life. His last work, "The Frontier- 
men of Xew York," is a full detail of local history, such as no other man could have written, and 
has given its author distinction. 



TOWN OF FLORIDA. 295 

part of the surface is a rolling upland, about 6oo feet above the valley. 
Bean Hill, in the south part of the town, is the highest point of land in 
the county, and estimated to be 700 feet above tide. The Mohawk on 
the north, and Schoharie creek on the west, are the largest streams 
touching the town, while the Chuctenunda and Cowilliga (said to signify 
" Willow ") creeks are watercourses within the town, the first named be- 
ing the larger and the latter less in size. 

The earliest occupants of this region were the Mohawk Indians, and 
within the limits of the town, at the north of Schoharie creek, was one 
of their three most famous castles. This place in Mohawk language 
was called " Icanderoga " or " Teondeloga," meaning "two streams 
coming together." The castle which stood near the place was called 
" Os-sev- ne non," or "One-on-gon-re," according to New York Colonial 
History, and has been described as " a square surrounded with palisades, 
without bastions or out works." We may add that the enclosure was 
large enough to admit of the erection of huts for the inhabitants of the 
locality. However, in 1693, Frontenac and his French and Canadian 
Indian forces invaded the Mohawk county and destroyed three of their 
most important c;istles, that at the mouth of the Schoharie, called the 
lower castle, being of the number. 

Soon after 1700 the Germans who had made a temporary home on 
the banks of the Hudson, began settlement in the valley of the Mohawk, 
which had first been promised them, and by the year 17 10 they had 
extended their settlements west of Schenectady. These lands, as has 
been stated, had been promised them under the patronage of Queen 
Anne, who was their generous protector, and induced them to emigrate 
to the new world. The settlememt by the Germans in this region at 
the time, however, was attended with much danger, and to protect them 
as far as possible, forts were built at various points in the valley, one 
being at the site of the old castle at the mouth of the Schoharie. This 
was done during the time of Governor Hunter, and the fort was named 
in his honor. The contract for its construction was taken October 11, 
171 1, by Garrett Symouce, Barentand Hendrick Vrooman, John Wemp 
and Arent Van Patten. The walls were formed of logs, well pinned 
together and twelve feet high, the enclosure being 150 feet square. 
After the close of the French war (1763) the fort was abandoned, 



296 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Surrounded by the palisades of Fort Hunter, and in the centre of 
the enclosure, stood the historic edifice known as Queen Anne's Chapel. 
It was erected by the builders of the fort, being in fact a part of their 
contract. It was built of limestone, was twenty- four feet square, with 
a belfry. The chapel was built by order of Queen Anne at her own 
expense, and she also gave a Bible and a valuable set of plate for the 
communion table. The ruins of the old fort were torn down at the be- 
ginning of the revolution and the chapel surrounded by heavy palisades, 
block- houses being built at the corners on which cannon were mounted. 
During the war Fort Hunter was garrisoned, a part of the time being 
under command of Captain Tremper, and here, also, the friendly Onei- 
das found a safe refuge when in danger of attack from the British, or 
their former Iroquois friends, but now dreaded enemies. During the 
construction of the Erie canal it became necessary to remove the chapel, 
its walls being used in building locks. 

In accordance with the English custom a glebe of 300 acres was at- 
tached to Queen Anne's chapel. It was placed under the ownership 
of the " Society for Propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts," under 
whose care the chapel and a missionary was maintained for more than 
sixty years. 

The statement has been made, although we fail to discover any reli- 
able record to confirm it, that the lands now included by the town of 
Florida were originally a part of a vast tract purchased from the In- 
dians by Walter Butler. About the year 1737 Sir Peter Warren, uncle 
and patron of William Johnson (afterward the baronet), became the 
owner of a large tract in the town, his grantors being Charles Williams 
and others, who were the patentees of 14,000 acres. The Warren pur- 
chase became known as " Warren's Bush," and was a part of the estate 
over which William Johnson, land agent, became superintendent. On 
the death of Sir Peter, the unsold portion of this estate was conveyed 
in three parts, one to Charles Fitzroy (Lord Southampton), one to the 
Earl of Abingdon, and the other to Henry and Susannah Gage. The 
lands about Fort Hunter, and extending across Schoharie creek, were 
patented July 20, 1705. to John Peterson Mabie. The patentees of other 
lands in the town (all granted in 1735) were Edward and Phillas Har- 
rison, Anne Wilmot, Maynard and Elizabeth Guerin, Henry Crosby 
and William Crosby, jr. 



TOWN OF FLORIDA. 297 

William Johnson came to this vicinity in the spring of 1738, where 
he acted as agent for Sir Peter Warren. His first location was on the 
south bank of the Mohawk, about a mile below the village of Port Jack- 
son, where he opened a store in connection with his land traffic, and 
sold goods to the settlers and Indians. His profits were large, enabling 
him to make land purchases which ultimately resulted in a handsome 
fortune. In 1742 Johnson began preparations for the erection of a large 
and comfortable mansion on the north side of the river (in the present 
town of Amsterdam), which he occupied in 1744, and to which was 
given the name Mount Johnson. About a mile or two below Johnson's 
store dwelt the pioneers, Alexander and Hamilton Phillips, with whom 
lived Catherine Weisenbergh, the German girl who became housekeeper 
for the young land agent and merchant, and whom he afterward mar- 
ried. 

The Germans or Palatines (as they were called) who settled in the 
valley had not at that time any valid title to the land, but were consid- 
ered as tenants by sufferance, and it was not until the lands were pat- 
ented that a permanent occupation took place. The efforts of the land 
agent and merchant, Johnson, contributed largely to this end. He sold 
and rented parcels of the Warren tract, cleared the land and planted 
orchards. Martinus Cline and Francis Saltz leased farms on the War- 
ren tract nearly opposite Mill Point, about 1750, the Cline farm being 
north of Saltz. Peter Young was another pioneer who settled on the 
east bank of Schoharie creek. He leased lands on the Warren tract 
paying an annual rent of five shillings ten pence for ten years, but 
eventually he became owner. Peter Young had three sons, George, 
William and Peter, jr., all of whom married and settled in the town. 
Peter Young's wife rendered great assistance to the distressed inhab- 
itants of the locality during the war, she having relatives among the 
tories, and therefore being in no fear of them. Indian invasions of the 
region were frequent, and the mere sight of a few hostile savages and 
tories naturally alarmed the whole settlement and caused them to flee 
to a camping place on the Young farm, where the good woman pro- 
vided them with food. The Young farm contains an old burying- ground 
in which is interred the remains of several generatiens of this pioneer 
family. 

38 



293 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERT COUXTT. 

In the Young neighborhood lived Philip Frederick, who had previ- 
ously married the daughter of Francis Saltz. Frederick cleared a farm 
and built a house, but what was of still greater importance, he also con- 
structed a grist-mill which proved a great convenience to the settlers. 

Abraham Van Home, whose name is associated with many impor- 
tant events of early history of Tryon county, settled on a farm about 
one mile south of the Young place. He was member of assembly in 
1777-78-79-80-81, and again in 1786. He was also sheriff of the county 
in 1781. He was a thorough patriot, and took an active part in the 
war. His wife, whose maiden name was Hannah Hoff, is likewise 
worthy of mention, for by her sympathy and still more generous aid she 
contributed greatly to the comfort of the neighborhood. 

The first bridge of any importance ever built over Schoharie creek 
was that constructed in 1796 at Fort Hunter by Major Isaiah Depuy, 
who, at the time of his death (1804), was a resident of Fultonville. 
After its completion a stage route was established along the south side 
of the river from Albany to Canajoharie and adjacent settlements. In 
1814 Christian Service, a tanner and manufacturer of boots and shoes, 
living in Florida, was drowned while attempting to cross this bridge. 
The accident occurred in the night, the ice having carried away the 
eastern portion of the bridge, a fact unknown to the unfortunate man, 
who urged his team with a whip, and they leaped into the water, carry- 
ing himself and the sleigh with them. David Cady, a land surveyor, 
settled in Florida about 1780, and became agent for the Watts tract, a 
part of the original Warren's Bush. He married Anne Shuler and 
lived in Florida until his death, in 18 18. He was one of the early 
merchants of the town, and held the offices of justice, supervisor, 
county judge, member of assemby, and also a commission as captain of 
militia. Daniel Cady, afterward a distinguished lawyer and judge of 
the Supreme Court, lived for a time at David Cady's house, but he 
moved to Johnstown about 1795 and there rose to a position of emi- 
nence. 

Among the other early prominent men of Florida we may recall the 
name of Samuel Jackson, merchant and capitalist, who filled various 
town offices, and was further honored with a seat in the state legislature 
and nomination as presidential elector. In addition to those who have 



TOWN OF FLORIDA. 299 

been mentioned as early settlers in Florida, there may also be recalled 
the names of other heads of families, such as Shuler, Overbaugh, Serviss, 
Ruff, Pettengill, Staley, Schuyler, Reynolds, Hill, Bent, Smith, Stanton, 
Vanderveer, Hale, Vorhees, De La Mater, Johnson, Green, Ellis, Her- 
rick, De Graff, Choiett, Murray, Covenhoven, Earl, Clayton, Quacken- 
boss. Snook, Gordon, Young, Mudge, and others, all of whom are 
worthy of some notice, and many of whom will be found further men- 
tioned among the family sketches of this volume. 

Town Organization. — As has been previously stated, the original dis- 
trict of Mohawk was formed in 1772, embracing within its limits a large 
territory. In 1788 the district was divided and the town of Mohawk 
created, including the towns now called Florida, Glen and Charleston. 
On March 12, 1793, Mohawk was divided and the towns just named 
separately organized. In the clerk's office in Florida there has been 
preserved an original volume of records of the old town of Mohawk, by 
which it appears that the first town meeting was held on the first Tues- 
day of April, 1788, when there was elected a supervisor, two collectors, 
five assessors, five constables, three overseers of poor, eight fence- view- 
ers, four poundkeepers, and eleven pathmasters. The first meeting 
was held at the Church (the chapel), and the second at the house of John 
Visscher, town clerk, at Fort Hunter. Thirty-one pathmasters were 
elected in 1789, not a surprising fact when we consider that the town 
then included boih Florida and the original Charleston. 

This old book of records also discloses an interesting fact in the early 
history of the town. The land proprietors preferred renting to selling 
their estates, caring more for their income than the principal thus in- 
vested. This system eventually became a great annoyance to the ten- 
ants, and was finally settled by quit claim deeds granted by proprietors 
to the lessees. On the old record there appears one of these deeds by 
which Jane Watts, wife of John Watts, released to sundry tenants her 
interest in Warrensburg (Warren's Bush). The release was executed 
November 13, 1793, and is only important in this chapter from the fact 
that it names as grantees many of the pioneers of the town, viz. : 
David Cady, Nathan Stanton, Ezra Murray, Philip and Peter Freder- 
ick, Wiliiam and Peter Youngs, George and Jacob Staley, John Van- 
derveer, Peter and Jacob Houck, Elisha Cady, George Christian, and 



300 HISTORY OF MONTaOMBRY COUNTY. 

Peter Serviss, Roolciffe Covenhoven, Asa Waterman, John Quackenboss, 
Ephraim Brookvvay, Lewis Phillips and Phillip Doty. John and Jane 
Watts, above mentioned, were residents of New York city, and their 
daughter, Mary Watts, became the wife of Sir John Johnson. ^ 

The first town meeting in Florida was held on the first Tuesday in 
April, 1794, at the house of Ezra Murray, at which time the following 
officers were elected : Supervisor, David Cady ; town clerk, Stephen 
Reynolds ; assessors, George Serviss, William Phillips and David Bev- 
erly ; overseers of the poor, Lawrence Shuler and Barnard Martin ; 
commissioners of highways, David Cady, John T. Visscher and Benja- 
min Van Vleck; collector. Christian Serviss; constables, John Cady 
and Caleb P. Brown. 

Succession of Supervisors. — David Cady, 1794; Stephen Reynolds, 
1795-6; David Cady, 1 797- 1802 ; John Green, 1803-08 ; David Cady, 
1809-11; John Green, 1812-15; Samuel Jackson, 1816-19; Jacob 
Delamatter, 1819—20; Henry P. Voorhees, 1821-22; Peter Young, 
1823-24; John S. Schuyler, 1825-26; Jacob Johnson, 1827-28; Jay 
Cady, 1829—30; John J. Schuyler, 1831; James Greenman, 1832; 
Reuben Howe, 1833; James Greenman, 1834; Jay Cady, 1835-36; 
Samuel Newkirk, 1837; Jay Cady, 1838-39; Jacob Johnson, 1840; 
John French, 1841-42; Theodore R. Liddle, 1843-44; Jubel Liver- 
more, 1845 ; Harmanus R. Staley, 1846; William A. Milmine, 1847- 
48; Adam W. Kline, 1849; Francis Newkirk, 1850-51: William H. 
Jackson, 1852—53; Lewis Howe, 1854; Jeremiah Snell, 1855; Lewis 
Howe, 1856-58; Gilbert Early, 1859; Andrew Francisco, i860; John 
H- Van Vechten, 1861-63; Elias A. Brown, 1864; John O. Johnson, 
1865-66; William A. Milmine, 1867-70; John C. Putman, 1871-75 ; 
Lewis Daley, 1876-77 ; Cornelius Van Buren, 1878-80; Peter H. Mc- 
Clumpha, 1881 ; Calvin Whitcomb, 1882; Peter H. McClumpha, 1883; 
William Putman, 1884-86; Calvin Whitcomb, 1887 and February 14, 
1888 ; A. Peck, April 24, 1888-90 ; Alonzo McClumpha, 1S91 ; Robert 
M. Hartley, 1892. 

Town Clerks. — Stephen Reynolds, 1794 ; Benjamin Van Vleck, 1795; 
John Shuler, 1796-1810; WiUiam Grifiin, 1811-13; George Smith, 

' John Watts was a leading flian in his day. He was one of the founders of the Leake and 
Watts Orphan Asylum in New York, and a statue honoring his memory has recently been erected 
in Tnnity chxu'ch yard. 



TOWN OF FLORIDA. 30l 

1814-18; Henry P. Voorhees, 1819-20; John J.Schuyler, 1821-22; 
Jacob Johnson, 1823-24; John J. Johnson, 1825-26; John G. Sweet, 
1827; Jay Cady, 1828; David Johnson, 1829-30; Andrew Johnson, 
1831; John McMillan, 1832-33; Elijah M. K. Glen, 1834; Andrew 
Johnson, 1835-37; Marvin Herrick, 1838; Jacob Johnson, 1839; Jay 
Cady, 1840-41 ; T. R. Liddle, 1842 ; Jonathan R. Herrick, 1843 ; John 
Denice, 1844-45; Adam C. Mead, 1846-47; Charles Dorr, 1848; 
William H. Witt, 1849; James Herrick, 1850-52 ; William A. Petten- 
gill, 1853 ; Thomas Mayner, 1854; William R. Schuyler, 1855 ; Thomas 
Mayner, 1856; Lewis Daley, 1857-59; Allen Veeder, i860; William 
S. Harris, 1861 ; William H. De Graff, 1862-63 ; Lewis Daley, 1864; 
William H. De Graff, 1865 ; Jno. H. De Graff, 1866-67; W. S. Steen- 
burg, 1868; W. H. De Graff, 1869; Nelson Vandeveer, 1870; William 
H. Hubbard, 1871-72; Charles W. McClumpha, 1873; John Deven- 
berg, 1874; John Hubbard, 1875; John Devenburg, 1876-77; Jacob 
J. Johnson, 1878-79; Charles B. Broeffle, 1880-82; Alfred Peck, 
1883-86; John Hubbard, 1887-88; A. S. De Graff, 1889; A. A. 
Rockwell, 1890-91 ; Albert Schuyler, 1892. 



Of the villages in Florida, Port Jackson is the largest and most im- 
portant. Its origin was due almost wholly to the construction of the 
Erie canal, as at this point a large dock was built and the place became 
the distributing centre for the entire region, Amsterdam being the chief 
beneficiary, a ferry being the mode of transit until the construction of a 
bridge. The first company for this purpose was chartered in 1807, the 
design being to build a bridge across the Mohawk between the houses 
then owned by Benjamin Van O'Linda in Florida and Timothy Downs 
in Amsterdam. The scheme however was delayed, and not until sev- 
eral years later was it carried into execution. On April 2, 1813, the 
Amsterdam Union Bridge Company was granted a charter to build a 
bridge between Florida and Amsterdam, the work to be done within 
five years. In March, 1821, the time was extended to the end of Au- 
gust I, 1824, but the bridge was completed in December, 1822. In 
later years it was made free, but was carried away by high water Feb- 



302 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ruary 15, 1876, and then replaced with the present substantial structure 
Soon after the loss of the bridge a serious accident occurred which is 
still painfully remembered. Attorneys Johnson I. Snell and Culver 
Patterson, of Port Jackson, engaged Michael Turner to row them across 
the liver, on the night of April 24, 1876. By some misfortune their 
boat came in contact with the ferry rope, and all three were thrown in- 
to the water and drowned. 

Port Jackson village was annexed to Amsterdam in 1888 and is 
therefore mentioned in the chapter relating to that city. 

One of the most historic localities in the county is that upon which 
is built the pretty little village known for more than a century and a 
half by the name of Fort Hunter. Here stood the lower Mohawk 
castle, built at a now unknown date, followed by the equally famous 
fort from which the village takes its name, and within the enclosure 
of which was erected the far famed Queen Anne's Chapel, the latter 
itself being barricaded, garrisoned and used as a fort during the revolu- 
tion. The last of these historic structures, however, was, as has been 
stated, removed to make a place for the improvements of a later gener- 
ation. From its situation at the junction of the Schoharie with the 
Mohawk, the Indian village here was called by the natives I-can-de- 
ro-ga, but to the whites who built the fort in 171 1 it was named Fort 
Hunter, in honor of Governor Robert Hunter, who was instrumental in 
locating the first settlements of the Palatines. 

The Jesuits were the first missionary laborers among the Indians at 
the lower castle, their appearance dating farther back than the middle 
of the seventeenth century. They were followed, though at a much 
later period, by the Protestant clergymen from the vicinity of Albany, 
the names of some of whom we can recall. About the year 1702 Rev. 
Talbot performed missionary services at Fort Hunter, followed soon 
afterward by Thoroughgood More. Thomas Barclay, chaplain at Fort 
Orange, labored among the Mohawks from 1708 to about 1712, and 
was succeeded by William Andrews. Queen Anne's Chapel was built the 
same year, and was thenceforth used for worship. Mr. Andrews left 
the field in 17 19, after which it is said no regular services were held 
until 1735, when Henry Barclay came and remained ten years. Like 
his predecessor, he too became discouraged and abandoned the field, 



TOWN OF FLORIDA. 303 

which was vacant for fourteen years. Jolin Ogilvie came next (in 1749), 
and remained until 1764, then retiring and afterward becoming rector 
of Trinity parish, New York. After another vacancy Sir William John- 
son made an appeal in behalf of religious instruction among the Mo- 
hawks, and John Stuart became missionary at the fort. This clergy- 
man, however, was compelled to vacate the field in 1778. Almost as 
early as the arrival of the Episcopal clergy came also the ministers of 
the Reformed Dutch church at Albany, Godefridus Dellius (in 1703) 
being the first. Their services were held in log houses and barns and 
between them and the English clergy there existed a warm friendship. 
Johannes Lydius came to this field and labored with the Indians until 
his death in 1710. He was followed by Petrus Van Driesen, who re- 
mained until 1722. After this time the Reformed Dutch church seems 
to have omitted sending missionaries hither until after the close of the 
last French war. It is said that soon after the erection of Queen Anne's 
Chapel the Dutch built a log meeting house near what afterward be- 
came known as Snook's Corners, but that all traces of the building long 
ago ilisappeared. 

The Methodist Episcopal society of Fort Hunter was organized in 
1856, under the pastorate of Rev. Parks ; earlier services of this denom- 
ination, however, were held in the school- house. The church was built 
in i860, and dedicated the next year, Mr. Craig then being the pastor. 
The trustees at that time were John L.Voorhees, Cornelius Wemple, John 
W. Briggs, Spencer Voorhees, Giles Ohien, Nicholas Newkirk, John 
McGraw, Nelson Reese and H. A. Dievendorf. Rev. G. W. Sisum is the 
present pastor of this church. 

The village has also two other churches, the German Methodist and 
the Union, the former including in its membership a number of the 
German families of this part of the town, and under the pastoral care of 
Rev. F. W. Hoffman. The Union church has no regular pastor, 
although services are frequently conducted here by Rev. Jacob H. En- 
ders. 

The business interests of Fort Hunter are of some importance in con- 
sequence of its location on the canal and the West Shore railroad. Its 
merchants are Finlay & Cole, Brown Brothers and P. Runkle & Son, 
while the principal manufacturing interests are those of Dewitt A. 



304 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERT COrNTT. 

Dievendorf and E. Howard & Son. Spencer Billington is also an ex- 
tensive dealer in hay and ships large quantities to New York. The 
village also has three hotels, called respectively the Ashton, Germania 
and Mohawk Valley House. 

Minaville is situated near the centre of the town, the name having 
been bestowed in 1818, by George Smith, a substantial merchant, and 
prominent in local politics. Previous to the year mentioned the local- 
ity was called "The Street," or "Yankee Street." The village is 
pleasantly located on the Chuctenunda, and is a desirable place of resi- 
dence. The business enterprises consist of three or four stores, the 
usual country shops, a cheese factory, and one or two other light in- 
dustries. The public buildings are the Reformed and Methodist 
churches, a hotel and district school. General Brown's residence, built 
on the site of the village in iSi i, was said at that time to be one of the 
most elegant in the county. Dr. Stephen Reynolds was also a promi- 
nent man in this part of the town, and was the father of Marcus T Rey- 
nolds, who became a noted lawyer of Amsterdam and afterwards of 
Albany. 

The First Reformed Dutch church in Florida was erected on lands of 
Lawrence Shuler, who also was a generous contributor to it. The 
year of its erection is uncertain, but it is said that Thomas Romeyn of 
the old church at Caughnawaga preached here in 1784. In iSoS an 
edifice was erected by the same society at Minaville, and its organiza- 
tion has ever since been maintained. The congregation includes the 
descendants of many of the old families of this part of the town. The 
present pastor is Rev. R. A. Pearse. 

The Methodist Episcopal church and its society at Minaville was or- 
ganized about 1S35, prominently connected with which were Nicholas 
Hill, Samuel R. Griffith, Henry Pettengill, Benjamin Herrick and 
Marcus P. Howland. Having its location in the centre of a fairly large 
Methodist population, this church is naturally strong in its membership 
and influence. Among its early pastors were Revs. Henry Stead, 

Henry L. Stark, Stebbins, Joseph Conner, Ripley, 

Warner, J. \V. Dievendorf, Clark, -Joseph Cope and other 

faitliful men. The present pastor is Rev. Jacob H. La Grange. 

Scotch Bush, more commonly known as Powder Spring, is a small 
hamlet in the southeast part of the town. Its buildings are few, mainly 



V 

TOWN OF FLORIDA. 305 

residences, although a post-office, store, school-house and one or two 
shops are in the locality. Scotch Bush, however, enjoys an important 
distinction in the possession of a spring of water, said to contain valua- 
ble medicinal properties that may yet come into general use. 

The United Presbyterian Church of Florida is located in that part 
of the town which is known as Scotch Church locality. Its historj' dates 
back to the closing years of the last century, the society having been in 
existence as early as 1798, and including in its membership nearly all 
the Scotch families of the town, among whom may be named as first 
members John Adair, John Milmine, John McKerlie, John McKie, Al- 
exander Murray, John Lyle, William Lander, Daniel Munson, John 
McGloch, John Smeallie, Alexander Keachie, Andrew Crawford, James 
Murray and Daniel Morrison. The first church was erected on the 
Derick Van Vechten farm in 1800, and the second on the same site in' 
1846. The church has a membership of about 140, with a Sunday- 
school of about eighty scholars, the latter having been organized in 
1850. The name of the first pastor is unknown, but among those who 
have been in charge of the church are Rev. John Banks, 1802 to 1816; 
Pastor Donaldson, 18 17 to 1820; Rev. Peter Campbell, 1823 to 1843 ; 
Rev. George M. Hall, 1849 to 1862 ; Rev. Robert Rogers, the present 
pastor, was called in 1871. 

Schools. — As early as 1769 an Indian school was established at Fort 
Hunter, but of its history in after years there is no record. A school- 
house for the education of white children (a log structure) was built in 
the southwest part of the town in 1785, and was taught by Mr. Wright. 
A frame school-house was built at Belding's Corners in 1806. It is 
said that a part of the cost of the building was borne by the Methodists 
of the locality, with the understanding that they should have the use of 
it as a house of worship. The committee, under whose direction it was 
erected, comprised John Van Derveer, Daniel Herrick and John 
Green. Unfortunately there is no part of town history more difficult to 
obtain than that relating to schools and school-houses. Teachers are 
changed frequently, sometimes with every term, and the records made 
by district officers are not only indefinite, but are often lost. We learn, 
however, that in i860, Florida, with a population of about 3,150 and 
families to the number of 512, maintained thirteen districts with one 
39 



306 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

school in each. The number of children taught during that year was 
1,200. In 1891 the districts were thirteen in number; teachers em- 
ployed, twelve ; number of children residing in districts, 1,181; num- 
ber attending the schools, 817; average daily attendance, 428 ; value 
of school-houses and sites, $1 5,650 ; population of the town, 2,296. The 
general decrease noticeable in comparing these years is in part ac- 
counted for in the fact that, in 1886, Port Jackson was taken from Flor- 
ida and annexed to the city of Amsterdam. 

The Population of Florida. — In 1825, 2,689; 1830, 2,838; 1835, 
2,896; 1840, 3,214; 1845, 3,172; 1850, 3,571; 1855, 3,154; i860, 
2,991; 1865,2,885; 1870, 3,002; 1875, 3,063; 1880, 3,249; 1890, 
2.839- 



CHAPTER XXV. 

TOWN OF ST. JOHNSVILLE. 

THIS town, the most westerly in Montgomery, is bounded on the 
north by Fulton county, on the east by Palatine, on the south by 
the Mohawk river, and on the west by Herkimer county, East Can- 
ada creek being the dividing line. Its surface consists of broad flats in 
the Mohawk vallej', with broken uplands gradually rising toward the 
north. The principal streams, all of which flow in a southerly direction 
and empty into the Mohawk, are East Canada, Crum, Fox, Zimmer- 
man's, Caldwell, and Mather creeks. East Canada creek is noted for a 
succession of falls and rapids, descending seventy-five feet in a distance 
of eighty rods, this being only a mile from its mouth. The soil is a fine 
quality of gravelly loam, and that portion lying near the river is 
adapted to grain and hay, while farther north the land is well suited to 
grazing. Discovery has been made of three distinct mineral veins near 
East Canada creek, which are distinguished as the lower, middle and 
upper mines. The first mentioned consists largely of lead, with a trace 
of gold ; the second is a mixture of copper, lead and zinc, but the last 
mentioned is mostly copper. 



TOWN Of ST. JOHNSVlLLE. 307 

St. Johnsville was formed from Oppenlieim, April i8, 1838, at the 
time Montgomery county was divided. In area it is the smallest town 
in the county, containing only 9,818 acres, a large portion of which 
formerly comprised a part of the Harrison patent of 12,000 acres, 
granted to Francis Harrison and others, March 18, 1722. Equalized 
valuation of real estate in 1891 amounted to $1,192,748, and the per- 
sonal estate was assessed at $171,100. The town is divided into four 
school districts, the value of the school-houses and their sites being 
$9>5S5' Nine teachers are employed, to whom was paid in 1891 the 
sum of $3,830.25. The total number of weeks taught during the year 
was 154, and out of 613 children residing in the school districts, 489 
attended school, with a daily average of 301. In the school library of 
the town are 535 volumes, valued at $531. 

The exact date of the first white settlement is not known, but it prob- 
ably took place as early as 1725, and as at that date it was a part of 
the Stone Arabia district, its pioneers would naturally be more or less 
confused with those of the whole Palatine region. The first settlers 
were almost entirely Germans, and formed the ancestry of many of the 
present inhabitants. Among the families who located in different parts 
of the present town at that early day may be mentioned Heliebradt, 
Waters, Getman, Van Riegien, Walrath and Klock. It was not until 
1776 that a settlement was made on the site of the village of St. Johns- 
ville. Jacob Zimmerman located there in that year, and soon after 
erected the first grist-mill in the town. George Klock built another in 
1 801, but nearly half a century before this Christian Klock had built 
a church in the eastern part of the town, the date of its erection being 
1756. Its members were of the Reformed Dutch connection, and Rev. 
Abram Rosenkrantz was their first preacher, being followed by Rev. 
Henry Dyslin. Henry Hayes taught a German school in the town at 
an early day, and the first English school was taught by Lot Ryan, an 
Irishman, in 1792. A tavern was kept as early as 1783, by Christopher 
Neliis, who added a stock of merchandise and kept store in 1801. 

Many incidents of thrilling interest took place in this region during 
the revolution, and their recital would fill a larger volume than this, 
and we shall therefore only make brief mention of a few of the more 
important events connected with that bloody struggle. The dwelling 



30S HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

of Christian Klock, which stood in the eastern part of the town, was 
then stockaded and named " Fort House " in compliment to Christian 
House, the builder. The house of Jacob Zimmerman, in what is now 
St Johnsville, was also stockaded. Both of these forts repeatedly re- 
pulsed attacks of the enemy and remained proof to the end of the war. 
Fort Hill, situated on an elevation near East creek, was also used as a 
place of defence during the same war. The battle between the forces 
of Sir John Johnson and the advance guard of General Van Rensselaer's 
army, under Colonel Dubois, took place at Klock's Field, near the loca- 
tion of Fort House, October i8, 1780. The enemy, being defeated, 
forded the river and retreated up the valley during the night follow- 
ing. 

An authentic story is told of the grandfather of Peter Crouse, who 
was one of the early settlers. Mr. Crouse was for a time stationed at 
Fort Klock, and while looking one day at a body of English troops, 
who were at the time passing within gunshot of the fort, exclaimed 
jestingly that he thought he could " hit one of those fellows on horse- 
back." Taking aim he fired at one of the officers who was seen to fall 
from his saddle. The horse, being left without a rider, immediately ran 
up to the fort and halted before Mr. Crouse who found him a very val- 
uable prize, specially as a bundle was fastened to the saddle con- 
taining several articles of camp life, among which was an old brass 
kettle. These articles were kept for many years by the Crouse family 
as relics of the ever memorable revolution. 

During the battle of Oriskany a hostile Indian had concealed himself 
in an excavation in the ground, from which place he had shot at and 
had killed a number of American soldiers. Henry Smith, a pioneer of 
St. Johnsville, and who took part in the battle, finally discovered the 
ambush of the Indian, and watching for an opportunity, shot and killed 
the savage, and then hastening to the spot he seized the tomahawk and 
buried it in the Indian's head. Taking the gun and powder horn from 
the savage, he carried them with him until the close of the battle, and 
they have been carefully preserved as trophies by his descendants. 

Incidents of war often have a tinge of romance, and it was tlius in the 
plot formed to kidnap Peggy Bellinger, who with five sisters and their 
father (Johannes Bellinger) lived just above Fort Hess. Philip Helmer, 



TOWN Of ST. JOHNSVILLE. 309 

a well-known tory, had been paying unusual attention to one of the girls, 
and had made matrimonial proposals, but the parents, who favored the 
cause of the colonists, strongly opposed his suit, because of his toryism. 
Suffering under this rejection, young Helmer openly joined the enemy 
and organized a small band of Indians for the purpose of kidnapping 
one or both of the sisters. For this purpose he led his band toward the 
Bellingers, but ere he had reached the house he repented his nefarious 
project and hurrying ahead he managed to reach Fort Hess, where he 
informed the people of his design. A small company of volunteers was 
gathered together without delay and forming an ambuscade, the)' would 
have killed or captured all of Helmer's approaching band, had it not 
been for the indiscretion of one of the number, who, catching a glimpse 
of the approaching kidnappers, cried out at the height of his voice in 
wild excitement : " Boys, here they are!" The Indians immediately 
fled, not, however, without the loss of one of their number. Whatever 
may be said of Helmer's character in first deserting his friends and then 
betraying his villainous confederates, it appears that he subsequently 
married the girl. 

A house, occupied in recent years by Mrs. Jonas Snell, and situated 
not quite a mile below the village of St. Johnsville, was, during the 
revolution, the home of Colonel Jacob Klock. He was an active and 
zealous patriot and it was at his house that the Tryon county commit- 
tee of safety met, June i6, 1775. In September of the same year he 
was appointed colonel of the second battalion of Tryon county militia, 
and held the position until the close of the war. 

An interesting caseof identification brought about by the recognition 
of an old horse, is related of Leonard Paneter, who was captured by the 
Indians when only eight years of age. He was taken to Canada where, 
after a year of captivity, he was exchanged and sent with others to 
Schenectady. The fact that he had returned soon reached the ears of 
his father, who sent an older son on horseback in search of him. Ar- 
riving at Schenectady the young man found several boys drawn up in 
line waiting to be claimed by parents and friends. The brothers did 
not recognize each other, but Leonard, upon seeing the horse that car- 
ried his brother, remembered it at once and thus established his iden- 
tity. 



310 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Captain Christian House became prominent for his unremitting 
efforts in behalf of the American cause. His home at that time was 
near the west Hne of the present town, and his house was, as has been 
stated, converted into a fort and stockaded at his own expense and in a 
great measure by his own hands. For his many brave acts and faithful 
service during the revolution he never asked compensation, and he lived 
to see the close of the war and victory for the cause he championed. 
He died soon after, however, and his remains were buried in an old 
cemetery, still in existence, near the former site of Fort House. 

The history of St. Johnsville since the beginning of the present cen- 
tury differs but little from that of the other towns in the county. Its 
territory was included in the Stone Arabia district until March 8, 1773 ; 
in the Palatine district until March 7, 1778; in the town of Palatine 
until the year 1808 ; and in the town of Oppenheim until 1838, when 
it became a distinct town of Montgomery county. During the late re- 
bellion the town furnished its full quota of soldiers, a record of whose 
services will be found elsewhere in these pages. 

Civil Organization and Town Oncers. — A special town meeting was 
held at the house of Christopher Klock, about one mile east of the vil- 
lage of St. Johnsville, on the first day of May, 1838, at which the fol- 
lowing officers were temporarily elected to fill the vacancies caused by 
the division of the county : Town clerk, Barney Becker,; justices of the 
peace, Peter Klock, Daniel Ayers, Josiah Loomis ; collector, Daniel C. 
Fox; assessors, Peter Radley and Simeon Klock; commissioners of 
highwajs, Joseph W. Nellis, John F. Bellinger. The number of votes 
polled at the meeting was 271. The first regular town meeting was 
also held at the house of Christopher Klock on the Sth day of March, 
1839, and the following full list of town officers elected: Supervisor, 
John W. Riggs ; town clerk, Jesse R. Curran ; justice of the peace, 
George Lake; collector, Daniel Failing; assessors, George Chawgo, 
Peter Radley, Simeon Klock ; commissioners of highways, Jacob H. 
Flander, Jonas Klock, Benjamin Groff; commissioners of common 
schools, Andrew R. Groot, Chauncey Nellis, Martin Walrath ; overseers 
of the poor, John G. Klock, J. I. Klock ; school inspectors, John G. 
Edwards, John Wilson, Joseph Hawes ; constables, James Best, Chris- 
tian Flander, Hiram Jennings, John P. Staring. 



TOWN OF ST. JOHNSVILLB. 311 

The supervisors of the town since its organization, with the dates of 
their service have been as follows : John W. Riggs, 1839; Daniel F. 
Nellis, 1840-41; John R Curran, 1842; Jabez Butler, 1843-4; Jo- 
seph W. Nellis, 1845; Lewis Averill, 1846; Jacob H. Flander, 1847; 
Charles Kingsbury, 1848-9 ; Alonzo Ayres, 1 850-1 ; Storm R. Haight, 
1852; Daniel F. Nellis, 1853 ; William Kingsbury, 1854-55 ; James 
Bates, 1856-7; Daniel F. Nellis, 1858; Morris Klock, 1859-60; Lewis 
Snell, 1861-62; George Timmerman, 1863; P. F. Nellis, 1864-5; 
Jacob H. Markell, 1866-7; George Ellison, 1868; George Timmer- 
man, 1869; Peter F. Nellis, 1870-74; Isaac E. Smith, 1875; Daniel 
J. Storm, 1876-7; DeWitt C. Cox, 1878; William Nellis, 1879; John 
Edwards, 1880; Martin Williams, 1881-84; Edward Bates, 1885; 
Martin Williams, 1886; Gordon Hough, 1887-88; John J, Reardon, 
1889; Martin Williams, 1890; Charles W. Scudder, 1 891-2. 

Town clerks. — Jesse R. Curran, 1839-40 ; Andrew R. Groot, 184 1-2; 
Chauncey Nellis, 1843; Hannibal Fox, 1844; Aaron Smith, 1845-6; 
Volkert Wagner, 1847; Elisha Fox, 1 848-9; Lewis Snell, 1850-51; 
DeWitt Failing, 1852; Jacob Chawgo, 1853-55; Chauncey Nellis, 
1856; Peter Hellegas, 1857-8; Rufus Fox, 1859-60; Alexander Don, 
1861-63; Alonzo Nellis, 1864; William Shaver, 1865; Abner H. 
Klock, 1866-7; Amos Klock, 1868; Harlan P. Walrath, 1869-71; 
Isaac E. Smith, 1872-4; Frederick F. Krombrust, 1875; A. A. San- 
ders, 1876; Alonzo A. Sanders, 1877; P"red F. Kingsbury, 1878-9; 
Chauncey Wilson, 1880-81 ; C. P. Lampman, 1882-3 ; Henry L. Suth- 
erland, 1884-7; Frank S. Mosher, 1888-9; Elroy C. Barth, 1890-91 ; 
Ai Fox, 1892. 

The present officers of the town are as follows: Supervisor, Charles 
W. Scudder ; town clerk, Ai Fox ; justices of the peace, P. A. Yoran, 
C. W. Lambert, Ambrose Nellis, M. Walrath, jr.; assessors, Ambrose 
Dillenbeck, George W. Levitt, O. H. Duesler; collector, Charles Suth- 
erland ; overseer of the poor, J. D. Burley. 

The population of St. Johnsville as given by the State census since 
184013 shown in the following: 1840, 1,923; 1845, 1,616; 1850, 
1,627; 1855, 1,744; 1860,1,688; 1865, 2,153; 1870,2,189; 1875, 
2,196; 1880,2,002; 1890,2,081. 

The Village of St. Johnsville. — This place is picturesquely situated 
on the north bank of the Mohawk near the mouth of Zimmerman creek, 



312 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and is consequently not far from the centre of the town east and west. 
The foundation of the present tliriving village was laid more than a 
century ago, when, in 1775, David and Conrad Timmerman (or Zim- 
merman, as afterward spelled) located there and erected a grist- mill near 
the creek which still bears their name. As has been previously stated, 
the mill was the first of its kind erected within the present limits of the 
town, and in fact remained the only grist-mill in this immediate region 
until 1801, when George Klock built another. Three years later, 1804, 
David Quackenbush erected a third grist-mill, which he continued to 
operate until 1832, in which year its business was suspended. These mills, 
built during a period when distant traveling was so diflficult, naturally 
attracted a settlement of farmers and artisans, and thus the place became 
a village early in the present century. In 1825, or about the time the 
Erie canal was completed, James Averill built a stone grist-mill, con- 
nected with which was a distillery. Twice were these buildings de- 
stroyed by fire and twice rebuilt, being operated by Mr. Averill and his 
successors twenty two years, after which the grist-mill was discontinued 
and the distillery was continued in its stead. During the ensuing nine- 
teen years the establishment was operated at irregular intervals by 
Messrs. McNeil, Nagel, D. C. Cox and Stuart. It afterwards came into 
possession of H. H. Healy, who conducted it for a time and then dis- 
posed of it to D C. Cox, who converted the plant into a paper-mill, 
manufacturing straw board for paper boxes. 

The village was for a long time known as " Timnierman's " and the 
present name, St. Johnsville, was unquestionably derived from St. John's 
Reformed church, erected in 1770 and moved to the village in 1804. 
Tiie historian, Simms, states that no church of that name was ever built 
in or near the village, and that the only "early church" in the town 
was erected in 1756, by Christian Klock, nearly a mile below the site of 
the village. He also says that it was a Dutch Reformed church and was 
never called St. John's. This, however, is disproved by the church 
records now in possession of Rev. Furbeck. Simms states that the 
village was named in honor of Alexander St. John, who was a pioneer 
of what is now the town of Northampton, Fulton county. He was a 
surveyor of more than ordinary ability, and his name is frequently 
found in the early records of Montgomery county. On April 4, 181 1, 



TOWN OF ST. JOHNSVILLE. 313 

the legislature passed an act authorizing John Mclntyre, of Broadalbin, 
Alexander St. John, of Northampton, and Wm. Newton, of Mayfield, 
as commissioners " to lay out a new turnpike road from the house of 
Henry Gross, in Johnstown, to the house of John C. Nellis, in the town 
of Oppenheim," terminating in the Mohawk turnpike near the present 
village of St. Johnsville. Alexander St. John did the surveying and took 
almost entire charge of the construction of the turnpike, and his work 
required his presence at " Timmerman's " a great portion of the time. 
He thus became well and favorably known to most of the inhabitants of 
the place and particularly to Henry Loyd and Christian Grofif, jr., mer- 
chants there, who, when a post-office was established, were successful 
in securing for it the name of St. Johnsville, in his honor as surveyor and 
commissioner. Both theories are plausible, but to that of St. John's 
church is given more credence. 

The building of the Erie canal placed the village in water communi- 
cation with the outer world and added not a little to its importance. 
The Utica and Schenectady railroad, built in 1836, and now known as 
the New York Central, also added much to its growth, especially pro- 
moting manufacturing industries. The population continued to increase 
slowly and in 1857 had reached 720. On the 1st day of August of that 
year the village was incorporated and its organization was perfected on 
the 20th of the same month with a full board of officers. The election 
was held in the Franklin House and resulted as follows: Trustees, Wm. 
Kingsbury, Elisha Fox, Absalom Thumb, Gordon Hough and Truman 
Taber ; president, Storm R. Haight; clerk, Peter Heleger ; assessors, 
Daniel Youker, Matthew F. Wilson and George Adams; collector 
John B. Churchill; treasurer, John B. Fisher. In 1878 the population 
had increased to 950; in 1888 to 1,070; and in 1892 to 1,550, a very 
rapid increase in four years. The present officers of the village are : 
President, Otis Williams ; trustees, Alvin Saltsman, Reuben B. Porter, 
Christian Corte ; clerk, E. A. Handy. 

The Reformed Church of St. Johnsville is one of the oldest religious 
societies in the Mohawk valley, its history dating back to the middle of 
the eighteenth century. The present handsome brick edifice was built 
in 1 88 1 upon the site of the ancient house of worship which has served 
the congregation since 1770. The church received the name of "St, 

40 



3U HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERT COUNTY. 

John's Dutch Reformed " during the latter part of the last century, and 
reliable records indicate that the church title suggested a name for the 
village. This fact has been substantiated in a great degree by Rev. P. 
Furbeck, who devoted a great deal of attention to the subject. The 
Rev. Abram Rosenkrantz, who first ministered to the Dutch Reformed 
church, was a historic character, as was also his successor, Rev. 
John Henry Dyslin. The latter was born in Burgdorf, Canton Berne, 
Switzerland, and was appointed by the " high German authorities of 
Palatine District, Canajoharie Castle," to the church July 13, 1788. The 
society has a membership of about 225, and Pastor Furbeck has min- 
istered to them four years with grea> acceptance and success. Hence 
his recent resignation to accept a call to West Copake is the occasion 
of deep regret to the St. Johnsville people. 

Grace Christian church of St. Johnsville was organized in 1874 with 
thirteen members and Rev. C. E. l^eake as pastor, the Sunday-school 
having been in existence about a year previous to that date. The lat- 
ter was organized by C. M. Knox. Among the pastors who have offi- 
ciated at this church, mention should be made of Revs. J. D. Morrow 
and Charles E. Watson, also Rev. R. E. Ander, the present pastor, who 
began his labors here in 1892. 

The Union church was erected in 1849 by Lutherans, Methodists, 
and a few persons of other denominations, the site having been bestowed 
as a free gift by Azel Hough, with the sole condition that the building 
should " be open and free to the use and occupation of all moral, Chris- 
tian and religious denominations." The first trustees were Adam J. 
Klock, Azel Hough, Nicholas J. Smith, Leonard Winegar, Enoch Snell, 
Nelson Rockafeller, and James H. Eagan. Rev. H. L. Dix, a Lutheran 
clergyman, officiated at the dedication, which took place February 7, 
1850. This building did good service for many years, but has not been 
of late years used for religious meetings, and is now occupied by a po- 
litical club. 

The Methodist Episcopal church, which is a handsome brick structure, 
was erected in 1879, prior to which time the society worshiped in the 
Union church building. The church is prosperous and has an active 
Sunday-school. Rev. George W. W < 'od is pastor. 

St. Patrick's Roman Catholic chc. ch was built in 1889, although 



TOWN OF ST. .TOHNSVILLE. 315 

services had been held for some time prior to that date. Rev. John T. 
Driscoll is pastor. 

The Episcopal society also holds meetings in St. Johnsville, Rev. 
Clarence E. Ball, of Canajoharie, officiating as rector. 

Masonic. — St. Johnsville Lodge, No. 6ii, F. and A. M., was organ- 
ized in 1866, with Charles Buckingham as worshipful master, which of- 
fice he held for more than ten years. The present officers of this lodge 
are A. Miller, W. M.; Alvin Kneiskern, S. W.; E. A. Handy, J. W.; 
G. T. Snell, secretary; C. Whyland, treasurer; C. M. Redfield, chap- 
lain ; S. R. Brown, S. D.; Melvin Shults, J. D.; Fox Sponable, S. M. C; 
Otto Bellinger, J. M. C; John McBride, marshal ; Oliver Snell, tyler. 

Press. — The Interior New Yorker, a weekly newspaper, was begun 
on July 14, 1875, by William L. Palmer, editor and publisher. At the 
end of six months the paper was purchased by Wheeler & Haslett, who 
continued it till the end of the first volume, when it was discontinued. 
Thomas J Haslett, the junior member of the last named firm, soon 
started the Weekly Portrait, which was succeeded by the St. Johnsville 
Times, published by W. E. Churchill, The latter paper was afterwards 
consolidated with the St. Johnsville Herald, of which C. M. Redfield 
was publisher. It was then known as the Herald-Times, and continued 
until the spring of 1889. 

The St. Johnsville Leader was established in October, 1886, by Knight 
& Fox, who published it until October i, 1891, when John B. Snell 
purchased the plant and changed the name of the paper to the St. Johns- 
ville Neivs. It is a non- political weekly, and is published every 
Wednesday. 

The First National Bank of St Johnsville was organized in June, 1864, 
with a capital of $50,000 and D. C. Fox as president, and A. Zimmer- 
man, cashier. J. W. Cronkhite was elected to the presidency of the 
bank in 1873, in which year Mr. Zimmerman died, and D. C. Fox be- 
came cashier. He was succeeded by N. G. Dodge in 1876. The pres- 
ent officers are : President, Joseph Smith, of Fort Plain ; vice-president, 
J. G. Beekman ; cashier, J. H. Markell ; assistant cashier. Otto W. Fox; 
teller, George Markell, the four last named all of St. Johasville. Mr. 
Smith has held the office of president for nearly twenty years. J. M. 
Hubbard succeeded Mr. Dodge as cashier, and Mr. Hubbard was fol- 
lowed in that office by Mr. Markell. 



316 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

The Board of Trade of St. Johnsville was established Ma}' 30, 1892. 
The officers are C. W. Scudder, president ; H. L. Sutherland, vice- 
president, and John B. Snell, secretary and treasurer. 

The village has a well managed high and primary school, with 297 
scholars. S. Reed Brown is principal and superintendent. 

The active manufacturing interests of St. Johnsville have con- 
tributed greatly to the growth of the village. Mention is made of the 
following, which constitute the more important establishments: 

Roth & Englehardt, manufacturers of piano actions, established in 
September, 1889; employ about 125 workers. 

St. Johnsville Agricultural Works, Martin Williams, proprietor, estab- 
lished many years ago. Manufacture thresher steam engines, cutters, 
and other agricultural implements, furnishing employment to about 
sixty men. 

The Mohawk Condensed Milk Company occupy the plant recently 
vacated by the Empire Company and employ thirty men. The home 
factory is in Rochester, and the St. Johnsville branch is managed by 
Frank Gibbie. 

C. W. Sender manufactures fifth wheels and carriage hardware, em- 
ploying twelve men. This business was established by Conover & 
Knox many years ago. 

The Lyon Knitting Company, Reanny & Taylor, proprietors, was 
established in 1892 and employs twenty-five workers. 

Saltsman Brothers began the manufacture of carriages and sleighs 
when St. Johnsville was a mere hamlet. They now employ twelve 
men. 

Bunce & Benedict, manufacturers of the bijou piano, established 
themselves in St. Johnsville three years ago. Their plant is elabo- 
rately equipped and employment is given to twenty- five men. 

D. C. Cox manufactures paper and straw board, employing eight to 
ten men. 

Hartley Folmsbee conducts an iron foundry and makes general cast- 
ings, employing twelve men. 

J. H. Kneeskern & Sons manufacture sash and blinds, employing five 
men. 

James H. Healy manufactures cigars, employing ten men. 




y/% 0/ (^ ^<^'^^rt.,<.^^yzy^ — " 



TOWN OF PALATINE. 317 



CHAPTER XXVI. 



TOWN OF PALATINE. 



PALATINE lies north of the Mohawk, and directly east of St. 
Johnsville. On the north it is bounded by Fulton county and on 
the east by Mohawk. The surface of the town is mostly an upland, 
200 to 509- feet above the valley, broken by deep narrow ravines, and 
descending irregularly toward the river. Garoga creek, a beautiful mill 
stream, which rises in the lake of the same name, flows in a southwest- 
erly direction through the western part of the town and empties in the 
Mohawk at Palatine Church. Mill creek, a tributary of Garoga; the 
Kanagara, emptying into the Mohawk a short distance below Sprakers ; 
and Flat creek, a small stream emptying into the Mohawk west of 
Palatine Bridge, are the other principal water courses of the town. The 
soil consists in a great measure of dark clayey loam, containing more or 
less gravel, and is highly fertile when properly cultivated. It is spe- 
cially adapted to grazing, and in the manufacture of cheese Palatine has 
surpassed, in quantity at least, every other town in the county. 

Among the five districts into which Tryon county was divided in 
1772 was that known as "Stone Arabia District." It was designated 
as being entirely on the north side of the Mohawk, bounded easterly 
by the west bounds of the Mohawk district, which was a line running 
north and south crossing Anthony's Nose ; and westerly by a north 
and south line crossing the river at Little Falls. Its northern boundary 
was the wilderness. On the 8th of March, 1773, the name was changed 
to " Palatine District." It will thus be seen that it comprised a vast 
area, including parts of the present counties of Montgomery, Fulton 
and Herkimer. This same area was formed into the town of Palatine, 
March 7, 1788, and was therefore one of the first towns organized in the 
county, ante-dating Johnstown, Amsterdam, Mayfield and Broadalbin 
five years. Of the several towns that have since been formed from old 
Palatine, that of Salisbury, Herkimer county, was the first to be set ofT, 



318 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

which was done in 1797. Stratford (now in Fulton county) was set off 
in 1805, and in 1808, the town of Oppenheim, embracing what is now 
St. Johnsville. In 1827 Palatine was again reduced by the formation 
of Ephratah, but a portion of the latter was re-annexed upon the divis- 
ion of the county, in 1838. These various reductions of territory have 
brought Palatine dowti to its present area, 22,212 acres. The territory 
of Palatine originally comprised three historic land grants, the first be- 
ing the Van Slyck patent, said to contain 2,000 acres, granted by King 
George I. to Harman Van Slyck, September i, 1716. It lay along the 
north bank of the Mohawk extending west from the Nose, and a mile or 
more above Palatine Bridge, also including the " Frey Place." When 
this land was surveyed by Nicholas Schuyler, in September, 1723, and 
laid out in sixteen lots, it was found to contain 6,000 instead of 2,ooo 
acres. Eight of these lots were conveyed to Colonel Abraham De 
Peyster, July 9, 1728. Van Slyck settled on a portion of the land and 
resided there for many years. 

Next was the Harrison patent, containing 12,000 acres, and includ- 
ing nearly all of what is now St. Johnsville. It was purchased from 
the Indians, in the king's name, March 8, 1722, by Francis Harrison, 
Lewis Morris, jr., John Spratt, John Schuyler, Abraham Wendell and 
John Hascall. 

Third was the Stone Arabia patent, containing 12,700 acres, and 
embracing land east of the Harrison and north of the Van Slyck patent. 
It was granted to John Christian Garlock, Elias Garlock, Andreas and 
Christian Feink, William Coppernoll, Jacob, John Jost and Joahnnes 
Schmele, Heinrick Frey and eighteen others, October 19, 1723. 

Within the present limits of Palatine was made the first permanent 
settlement north of the Mohawk, in Montgomery county, and probably 
the first west of Schenectady. Hendiick (orHeinrich) Frej' was the 
name of the intrepid pioneer who located his home so far in the western 
wilderness. He was a native of Zurich, Switzerland, and came to New 
York in 1689. Prior to 1700 he journeyed up the Mohawk and erected 
a log dwelling a short distance west of what is now Palatine Bridge, 
and continued to live there on friendly terms with the Indians. His 
early log house remained intact until 1739 when it was replaced by a 
stone dwelling which is said to have been prepared for defence in the 



TOWN OF PALATINE. 319 

early Canadian wars. Simms speaks of the old stone house as still 
"standing in good condition" in 1882, and it is no doubt the oldest 
house in the county. Frey is said to have laid claim to about 300 
acres of land surrounding hi.s house, the title to which was made per- 
manent by Harman Van Slyck, who became the patentee in 17 16. 

This venturesome pioneer was unfortunately drowned in the river 
while watering his horses, but his age or what time the calamity oc- 
.curred is unknown. He left one son, a namesake, who died in Schenec- 
tady at the age of about forty, leaving three sons, Henry, John and 
Bernard, and three daughters, Elizabeth, Catherine and Maria. The 
daughters married Henry Deihl, John Loucks and Christopher P. 
Yates, the marriage of the latter to Maria taking place December 11, 
1775. Henry inherited his father's property consisting of 3,200 acres 
in Freysbush ; 300 acres at the Palatine homestead and a Canajoharie 
mill site with 800 adjacent acres. Of this rich estate he gave his 
brothers the homestead, and to each of his brothers-in-law a farm of 
100 acres. He was a colonel of militia prior to the revolution, and it is 
said he held the rank of colonel under Sir William Johnson in the French 
war. Espousing the cause of the crown at the beginning of the war, he 
was arrested, imprisoned and finally freed on parole, although taking no 
active part in the hostilities. His estate was not confiscated. He 
married Elizabeth, a daughter of John Yost (Joseph) Herkimer, a sister 
of General Nicholas Herkimer, and had one son and one daughter. 
Further details regarding his descendants, as well as those of his 
brothers, can be found in Samuel L. Frey's published record of the 
family. 

Major John Frej', the next younger brother to Colonel Henry, took 
sides with the colonists, being a pronounced whig and an earnest patriot 
throughout the revolution. Although very young at the time, it is 
claimed he was a participant in one of the French wars. He was a 
prominent member of the celebrated Tryon count) Committee of Safety, 
a brigade major at Oriskany, and was wounded and taken prisoner on 
that historic battle ground and carried to Canada. He lived to achieve 
further prominence, both in social and public life, and married Gertrude 
Shoemaker, a niece of General Herkimer, who was at that time a widow 
of Lieutenant Matthew Warmuth. Major Frey died in 1833, at an ad- 



320 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

vanced age, in the Frey mansion erected by his only son, Henry I. 
Frey. 

Bernard Frey, the youngest of the three brothers, together with PhiHp 
R., his nephew, joined the tories and went to Canada, being no doubt 
led by the powerful influence of Colonel Henry. Upon their arrival in 
Canada, Bernard received a captain's commission in the cruel and no- 
torious regiment known as Butler's Rangers, while his nephew served 
at the siege of Fort Stanwix. Captain Bernard, who had sold his in- 
terest in the Palatine homestead when the war began, remained in Can- 
ada, where he married and continued to entertain hostility against the 
American government, but in the war of 1812, during the cannonading 
across the St. Lawrence, he fell by a ball from the American side. Thus 
tragically ended the life of a man, who, had he emulated the example 
of his brother John, and exerted his military genius in the cause of the 
struggling colonists, might have left an honorable name in American 
history. 

In 17 12 occurred the first e'xodus of the Palatines, who had been 
brought to this country under the protection of Queen Anne, from their 
settlements on the Hudson to the Schoharie country. Probably (for 
there are no records ) in the following summer some of these Palatines 
ventured farther west along the Mohawk, and, indeed, it is safe to as- 
sume that a few families may at that time have located in what is now 
the town of Palatine. 

Elias Garlock, who subsequently became one of the proprietors of 
the Stone Arabia patents, is said to have come from Schoharie, together 
with a few of his neighbors, and settled in the present town in 1717. 
The greatest increase in this portion of the Mohawk valley was made 
in 1723, when nearlj' 100 families are said to have come hither. It was 
in that year that the Stone Arabia patent was granted, and as it con- 
tained 12,700 acres and though but twenty-seven patentees are named 
in the grant, it is very probable that many settlers obtained a share. 
John Christian Garlock, whose name heads the list of grantees, was the 
founder of one of the Schoharie settlements, known as Garlock's dorf. 
He located in the neighborhood of Stone Arabia, and among others 
who shared this patent, but whose names have not been heretofore men- 
tioned were John Lawyer, Warren Digart, Bartholemew Rickard, Jo- 



TOWN OF PALATINE. 321 

hannes Crouse, Joliannes Ensign, William Vokrs, Marden Seibart, Jo- 
hanes Ingolt, Marden Dillenbeck, Adam Ensign, Theobold Garloctc, 
Sufierinus Digart, Hans Deterick Cassalman, Simon Erchart, William 
Nelles, Andries Peiper, Lodwick Cassalman and Gerhart Schaffer. 

A map of Stone Arabia, made from a very early survey, contains the 
names of thirty-one proprietors. To make the reader familiar with the 
pioneers' names of Palatine, mention should be made of those not in- 
cluded in the above list of patentees. Thus we find Johannes Keyser, 
Andreas Finck, jr., Nicholas Diskard, Adam and Christian Empie, 
Wilhelmus Kasselman, Dierick Loucks, Johannes Mynders, William 
Brower, Karell Eberhart, Warner Tey gart, Johannes Miller, Jacob Sybers, 
George Hoiiss, Better Soetts ( Suits ), Johs. Schuthey, Tilleman Van 
Soherlyand ( Sutherland ), Hendrick Six, Nicholas Stensell. 

Among the names of the early settlers of this town is that of Peter 
Wagner, who probably came hither from Schoharie about 1722. He 
located about one mile south of Palatine Church, where his son, Peter, 
.junior, lived when the revolution began. He became a lieutenant- 
colonel of the Second battalion of Tryon county militia, and participated 
in the battle of Oriskany. His house, which was fortified during the 
war, was known as Fort Wagner. The late Peter J. Wagner, of Fort 
Plain, who was born in 1795, was a grandson of the colonel. George 
Wagner, a son of Colonel Peter, and grandfather of the late Webster 
Wagner, of palace car memory, also participated in the same famous 
battle. 

Webster Wagner. — Among the names of the prominent self-made 
men of this county, none is more familiar than that of our subject. He 
was of German extraction, and a descendant of one of the pioneer fami- 
lies that located in Palatine early in the last century. He was born 
near Palatine Bridge, October 2, 1817, and was named after Dr. John 
Webster, the family physician. His limited advantages permitted 
nothing more than a common school education. In his youth he was 
apprenticed to his older brother, James, to learn the wagon- maker's 
trade, and becoming a skilled workman, was taken by him into partner- 
ship. This enterprise however did not win success. The brothers worked 
diligently at their trade, but could not overcome the adverse influence 
of the prevailing hard times. Had the shop been a success Webster 
41 



322 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Wagner would never have reached wealth and fame, both of which were 
preceded by ruin. At the age of thirty he was still at the foot of for- 
tune's ladder, having lost his patrimony and several years of labor ; but 
with health, hope and courage, he was not the man to surrender, even 
though in the midst of strenuous, painful conflict. Moreover, his wife, 
true helpmeet, equally hopeful and energetic, loyally seconded his 
patient perseverance and shared the reward. From the unsuccessful 
venture in the mechanic's shop, Mr. Wagner turned his attention to 
the line of railroad travel and traffic. The only resource at the time 
was the railroad ticket office at a very small salary, with the privilege 
of living up-stairs. Mr. Wagner proved highly efficient in his new 
sphere, to which he added other duties, and drew corresponding in- 
crease of pay, being soon promoted to station master. 

It was during these years of humble position, but none the less dili- 
gent attention to details of duty, that he turned his power of close and 
practical observation to good account. The benches on the caboose 
on which the railroad employees slept while off duty, and the fatigue of 
the drovvsers, who were obliged to ride either night or day, suggested 
the sleeping car — or to him — car of triumph, destined to bear him on 
to speedy fortune. The idea lay germinant but dominant in his brain 
for many years. In time it was wrought into tangible shape, and the 
result was the business man's convenience and comfort — the Wagner 
sleeping car. 

Gaining the co-opefation of neighboring capital, four of these cars 
were built, which began running on the New York Central railroad in 
1858. As soon as the sleeping car proved an assured success, he turned 
his attention to the drawing-room car, and in 1867 introduced the first 
car of this description to the traveling public. These cars became very 
popular, are in use upon nearly all of the principal railways of the 
country, and have brought to their inventor world-wide fame. His in- 
ventive genius was both persistent and practical. The oval-shaped 
car roof of that day, and the consequent lack of ventilation led to the 
much improved elevated panel, for which he took out a patent. This 
he sold (reserving his own right to use) to the New York Central com- 
pany, and then felt that his road to success was clear. He was at that 
time past forty, and schooled as he had been by the stern discipline of 



TOWN OF PALATINE. 323 

poverty, he was ready to greet with eager zeal the beckoning possibili- 
ties of the future. Coincident with this stage of his history, there ap- 
peared also an executive ability which surprised all who knew him. 
This enabled him to meet all the exigencies of a business which was 
destined in a few years to reach unimagined proportions. From Pala- 
tine, his office was removed to Albany, and thence to New York, where, 
in intimate connection with the headquarters and the controlling influ- 
ence of a powerful corporation, Mr. Wagner's name and influence, busi- 
ness worth and excellence, were fully appreciated to the very last. 
There his loss is regarded as well nigh irreparable. The value of such 
qualities, such integrity and fidelity, commands public recognition. 
Promotion comes according to the Scripture, " Seest thou a man dili- 
gent in his business, he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand be- 
fore mean men." 

In 1870 he was elected to the assembly of his native state by a ma- 
jority of 200. In the following year he was named to represent the 
then Fifteenth Senatorial district, and was elected by 3,222 majority. 
The term ending he was returned to the senate without opposition and 
in 1875 was re elected by a majority of 2,623 over Mr. Samuel T. 
Benedict, of Schenectady. In 1877, '79 and 1881, he was also re- 
elected by the customary majorities. He was also a delegate to the 
Chicago convention in 1880 and was one of the seventeen New York 
delegates who opposed General Grant's third term aspirations, and was 
instrumental in securing the nomination of General Garfield. 

A few months previous to his death, a friend and comrade in official 
life visited him in his fondly cherished Palatine home. In their stroll 
about the grounds, they stood beside the graves of loved ones who 
had gone before. Pointing to the spot he had chosen for his own 
resting-place, and placing his hand upon his friend's shoulder, Mr. 
Wagner said : " I am ready to go at any time." Had not that a pro- 
phetic sound ? No one thought, however, that his departure could be 
so near at hand, nor indeed could any one have imagined when that 
family plot was newly arranged, and the majestic and beautiful shaft 
was in its place, that the first precious dead over which the monumental 
shadow would fall would be that of husband and father. Thus, how- 
ever, had it been ordained, and so rests in hope the toiler with his life 



324 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

work done. After making so many happy, lie " rests from his labors, 
and his works follow him." 

The shocking accident by which Mr. Wagner lost his life occurred 
on the eve of Friday, January 13, 1882, near the Spuyten Duyvil 
creek on the Hudson River Railroad. 

Of the domestic life of Senator Wagner, we may add without intrud- 
ing upon the privacy of family affairs, that Mrs. Wagner was a daugh- 
ter of John P. Davis, and a sister of William H. Davis, of Palatine. 
She survived the senator only five years, and her death renewed that 
profound grief expressed for her husband. But those five }-ears were 
not spent in vain. As a memorial of this estimable lady, words form 
but a minor part, but she unconsciously left a monument and proof of 
her pious beneficence, and philanthropy in the spacious parlors she 
caused to be erected for St. Mark's Evangelical Lutheran Church, of 
Canajoharie. In one of these parlors the memorials of the dead sena- 
tor are the furnishings, among them being the memorial tablet present- 
ed to the bereaved family by the legislature of the state of New York, 
and the desk and chair he used in the senate chambers. It the audito- 
rium of this church the following tablet has been erected : 

IN MEMORT OF 

JOHN WEBSTER WAGNER. 

Trustee of this church for thirty-two years, 

A member for more than twenty years, 

Always warmly attached to its services, 

and mindful of its interest.';, 

died 

January ]3, 1882. 

This tablet is erected by his friends. 

The memory of the just is blessed. 

No more fitting tribute could be paid to the memory of this honored 
man than the following from the officers of the company he had so long 
been associated with, and of which he was the president. 

At a meeting of the board of directors of New York Central Sleeping- 
Car Company, held the 14th day of January, 1882, the following was 
adopted: 



TOWN OF PALATINE. 325 

An all-wise providence has permitteii a sudden and terrible accident, whicli has 
caused the death of our president, Webster Wapner. He possessed in large measure 
the qualities which secure success, and retained the honor and respect of the world. 
An active and inlluential participant in business and public aflairs, he never made an 
enemy nor lost a friend. He originated a plan to supply a deficiency in the system of 
transportation, and by his ability, energy and effort, it has become one of the great enter- 
prises of the country. Always respecting the rights of others, and tenacious of his 
own, he so lived as to possess the love and confidence of all who knew him. The peo- 
ple among whom he was born and lived with unexampled unanimity made and kept 
him their representative in the senate of the state, and those who were associated with 
him in business, trusted entirely to his management and control. From a humble be- 
ginning, and by unaided eflbrt, he accumulated a fortune, and attained distinguished 
positions, and he leaves an unsullied record of the intelligent and conscientious dis- 
charge of every public and private duty. His money and influence were liberally used 
for deserving measures and men, and his charities were as broad and unobtrusive as 
his character was modest and virtuous. His lo.ss is great to the state, and to the varied 
interests with which he was connected, almost irreparable. 

Directors, officers and employees are in common grief, not for the president, but for 
our friend. 

We extend to his bereaved family our profoundest sympathy and condolence. 

It is directed that this minute be entered upon the record and a copy engrossed and 
transmitted to his family. 

(Signed) William II. Vandekiult, 

Secretary, pro tem. 

Of the five children of Senator Wagner, Emma C. is the wife of 
James D. Taylor, of Palatine Bridge ; Anna, widow of George W. Van- 
Vleck, of Canajoharie ; Annetta, wife of Albro E. Haines, of New 
York; Clara, wife of George W. Stetson, of New York. Norman L. 
Wagner, the only son, died in 1887. 

A contemporary emigrant with Peter Wagner, was William Fox, who 
located only a short distance from the Palatine Church. Among his 
descendants, several of whom did gallant service in the revolution, 
were Captain William Fox, jr., Christopher P. Fox and Christopher W. 
Fox. They were in command of the First, Second and Third com- 
panies of the Second ( Palatine ) battalion at the battle of Oriskany, in 
which Christopher P. was slain. 

Another early and prominent name in the annals of Palatine was 
that of Isaac Paris. Tradition says that he came from Strasburgh and 
settled at Stone Arabia many years prior to the revolution. Being a 
man of superior intelligence and integrity, he became well known among 



326 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

the inhabitants of tliat day, and several years before the war began, 
was actively engaged in trade. He was a member of the Tryon county 
Committee of Safety, was a delegate to the State Provincial Congress, 
and a member of the first State Senate of New York. His name is also 
found among the early records of the Reformed Dutch church of Stone 
Arabia, of which he was an influential member. Together with his 
oldest son, Peter ( then aged 1 8), he took part in the bloody battle of 
Oriskany, which proved a fatal encounter for both father and son. The 
latter was killed in the action, while the former was taken prisoner and 
afterwards murdered by the bloodthirsty savages. A younger son, 
Isaac, jr., has been elsewhere mentioned as the first merchant of Fort 
Plain, and a man of remarkable generosity. The old Paris house, which 
stood about a mile west of Stone Arabia, was burned by the tories Oc- 
tober 19, 1780. 

Palatine furnishes us with the name of another man who achieved 
fame by his intellect, and also notoriety by an unfortunate and tragic 
duel. This was George I. Eacker. His great-grandfather, Jacob 
Eaker, is supposed to have been the first of the family to locate in Pal- 
atine, coming hither from Schoharie in 1723, and raising, it is said, a 
family of twenty one children. The eldest son was George, who mar- 
ried Eliza, a daughter of George Snell. This son Jacob, who is re- 
membered as a judge of the county, married Margaret, a daughter of 
Andrew Fink. The result of this union was two sons, George I. and 
Jacob I., and also four daughters. 

George I. Eacker, who received his preparatory schooling at Sche- 
nectady, subsequently studied law with Brockholst Livingston in New 
York, and was admitted to the bar at the age of twenty-one. Opening 
a law office, his marked ability, affable manner, and ready knowledge 
of the legal code drew around him a circle of friends and admirers. He 
was soon appointed master in chancery, and in 1801 was selected to 
deliver the Fourth of July oration in the young metropolis. This ora- 
tion, which was marked by eloquence and patriotism, created a sensa- 
tion in New York, and Eacker won laurels of praise from many to whom 
his ability was previously unknown. There were those, however, who 
were envious of the "Mohawk Dutchman" (as they contemptuously 
called him), and the success of his oration kindled their envy into hate. 



TOWN OF PALATINE. 327 

Among this number was Philip Hamilton, a son of Alexander Hamil- 
ton, and a graduate of Columbia College, who openly insulted Eacker 
in the box of a theatre, when the latter was in company of his affianced 
bride. The affront was at first unnoticed by Eacker, but persistent 
repetitions called forth a rebuke from him, which was followed by a 
challenge from Hamilton and then from a friend named Price who was 
with him. Four shots were fired between Eacker and Price without 
effect, Sunday, November 22, 1801. Eacker and Hamilton met the 
following day at 3 P. M., an(i the latter fell mortally wounded upon the 
first fire, but lived until the following morning. Facts prove that Flacker 
was really driven into the unfortunate affair, and his subsequent pleas- 
ant relations with Alexander Hamilton indicate that he was not blamed 
by the father of his adversary. 

Palatine contains two very ancient churches, the Reformed Church of 
Stone Arabia being the oldest religious society on the north side of the 
Mohawk west of Schenectady. It is not known at what date the soci- 
ety was first organized, as there was a congregation of this denomina- 
tion at Schoharie soon after the settlement of the Palatine Germans in 
that place, probably as early as 1712. Rev. John Jacob Ehle was the 
pastor, and it is not unlikely that he attended the religious meetings of 
such members of his church as had moved a few years later to Stone 
Arabia. Among those early settlers were also a number of Lutherans, 
who took steps towards securing a glebe for church purposes. William 
Coppernoll then signed an agreement to convey a lot of fifty acres to 
Andreas Fink and three others, on or before April 9, 173 1, binding 
himself in the sum of ^100, " good and lawful money of New York," 
to keep the obligation. The instrument was not executed, however, 
until May 9, 1732, when Coppernoll conveyed a fifty-two acre lot to 
Andreas Fink, Werner Digert, Johannes Schnell and others for a con- 
sideration of ;^20. On this lot both the Reformed and Lutheran 
churches were located, a rude house of worship being constructed of 
logs, which for a time was used by both denominations. In 1744 the 
glebe was divided and two separate churches were erected by these so- 
cieties. Among the active members of the Reformed congregation at 
that time were Jacob Schnell, Laverinus Deigert, Peter Suits, William 
Broner, Johannes Krems, Dirk Loux, Hendrick Loux, Harris Schnell, 



328 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

William Coppernoll, Andreas Fink, Nicholas Horning and Peter Dei- 
gart. The early ministers at Schoharie officiated at Stone Arabia for 
many years Among them were Rev. Ehle, Abram Rosenkrantz, John 
Daniel Gros, Dietrich Christian, A. Peck, Isaac Labaugh and John 
Jacob Wack, the latter remaining with the society from 1804 until 1828. 
His salary was $400 per year, paid jointly by the Reformed Church of 
Stone Arabia and that of Canajoharie, both churches contributing an 
equal share, and both receiving an equal proportion of his time. He 
was required to preach two sermons in German, then one in English, 
followed by two more in German and then one in Low Dutch. It will 
thus be seen that he was indeed a remarkable clergyman for those prim- 
itive times. Among his successors may be mentioned Revs. Isaac 
Kitchum, B. B. Westfall, Charles Jukes, John C. Van Liew, Manning 
Bogardis, Philip Furbeck, G. M. Blodgett, L. H. Van Dyke, J. M. 
Compton and W. B. Van Benschoten. The log church was burned 
October 19, 1780, and was replaced after the revolution by a wooden 
structure. This gave way to a stone church in 1788, which cost $3,378. 
It was built by Philip Schuyler, and was considered one of the best 
churches of that day in the Mohawk valley. The society was incor- 
porated May 23, 1791, as " The Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of 
Stone Arabia." Among the prominent members of this church who 
have from time to time served the society in official capacities, mention 
may made of John Zielly, Jacob Eacker, Arnout Veeder, Johannes 
Koch, Frederick Getman, Adam Loucks, Casper Cook, Michael Ehle, 
and coming down three-quarters of a century will be remembered Con- 
rad P. Snell, Henry Gramps, John Kitts, Reuben Graff, Harrison Brown, 
Erwin Vosburg, C. K. Loucks, Johannes Hees, and Aurora Failing. 

The history of the Lutheran church of Stone Arabia properly begins 
at the time of the division of the fifty-two acre glebe, which took place 
March 27, 1744. Among the trustees of this society at that time, whose 
names are found on the quit-claim deed, to the church lot, were Marli- 
nes Dillenbeck, John Keiser, Harris Empie, John Schuls, Jacob Schuls, 
Stovel (Christopher) Schuls, Lutrick Kaselman, Nicholas Stemfell, 
Andreas Besiner and William Nellis. In 1770 this land was conveyed 
to Christian Dillenback and Johannes Shults in trust. There was then 
standing upon it a Lutheran house of worship, which ten years later, 



TOWN OF PALATINE. 329 

October 19, 1780, was burned together with the Calvinist church and 
the dwellings of the village. It is probable that the Reformed con- 
gregation and the Lutherans both occupied a temporary structure for a 
number of years following the fire. The latter did not erect a church 
until 1792, when that interesting and substantial structure was built 
which has withstood the hand of time for a century. The early records 
of the church are not complete and it is not known when the church 
organization was perfected or the first meetings were held. Rev. Will- 
iam Christian Buckmeyer, a Lutheran minister stationed at Loonenburg 
on the Hudson, was first to officiate at this church. Rev. Peter Nicho- 
las Sommer, a native of Hamburg, Germany, and the earliest regular 
preacher among the Lutherans at Schoharie, also visited Stone Arabia. 
Rev. Frederick Ries, from Germantown, became the minister in De- 
cember, 175 I. During the decade from 1763 to 1773 the church was 
in charge of Rev. Theophilus England who, according to statements 
made in the correspondence of Sir William Johnson, desired to take 
orders in the Church of England, probably with the intention of bring- 
ing his congregation under the control of the Episcopal church. No 
other attempt, however, was ever made to accomplish such a change. 
Among the pastors following Mr. England were Frederick Reis, Philip 
Jacob Grotz and Peter Wilhelm Domier, all of whom preached in Ger- 
man, keeping the church records in the same language. The first 
minister who preached in English was Rev. John D. Lawyer, who came 
in 1827 and remained three years. Mention may be made of a few of 
his successors, and in this connection we recall the names of Rev. Charles 
A. Smith, Henry L Smith, Martin J. Stover, Adolphus Rumpfif, Rev. 
Curtis, Nicholas Wert and W. W. Gulick. 

The Palatine Evangelical Lutheran church, more familiarly known as 
" Palatine Church," is located in the midst of a picturesque village which 
bears the same name and is the oldest church now standing within the 
limits of Montgomery and Fulton counties. It is a well preserved stone 
structure, built in August, 1770, with the proceeds raised by subscription 
to a paper, upon which the following names are found : Peter Waggon- 
er, Andrew Reber, William Nellis, jr., Andrew Nellis, Johannes Nellis, 
Henry Nellis, Christian Nellis, David Nellis, and Johannes Hess, 
contributing in the aggregate, the sum of ;^620or about $3,000. Over 
42 



330 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

the entrance, which was on the north side, was the German inscription, 
" Erbanet im Yahr Christi, 1770, Den 18 ten Aug." The church was 
remodeled in 1868, upon the i8th of June of which year it was rededi- 
cated. Rev. G. A. Lintner, of Schoharie, who had preached his first 
sermon in the old church, officiated upon this occasion. The centennial 
celebration of the ancient house of worship was celebrated Tuesday, 
August 18, 1870, with due honor and reverence, the late Governor 
Seymour delivering an eloquent and fitting address. The church has 
always been supplied with pastors from the Lutheran church at Stone 
Arabia. 

Salem church of the Evangelical Association of America, afterward 
called " the German church," was not incorporated under the first men- 
tioned title until February 12, 1877, although the first services of this so- 
ciety, whose faith in many respects resembles that of the Methodist Epis- 
copal church, were held in Palatine as early as 1835. For a number of 
years these meetings were held in a school house near the present church, 
and were conducted by Kevs. Lane, Fisher and Rothschild. Later the 
ball-room of Andreas Dillenbeck's hotel was used, and in 1839 a union 
church was erected. This was replaced in 1871 by a new structure in 
which services have usually been held on alternate Sabbaths. The early 
services were conducted entirely in German, but of late years this cus- 
tom has been abandoned. 

Passing over the battles of Stone Arabia in which the illustrious Col. 
John Brown was killed, October 19, 1780, mention of which has been 
made in an earlier chapter, and also the military events that occurred 
at Forts Paris and Keyser (the two principal places of defence in Pala- 
tine during the revolution), we shall now turn to the past and present 
civil organization of the town. 

The records covering the period of its formation and down to 1804, 
and from 1805 to 1827 are missing, enough only remaining to indicate 
that Jacob Eacker was supervisor and Peter C. Fox town clerk for the 
year 1803. At the town meeting held on the 3d of April, 1804, officers 
were elected as follows: Supervisor, Peter Gramps, jr.; town clerk, Pe- 
ter C. Fox ; assessors, John J. Nellis, Jost Spraker, Peter N. Smith, 
Henry Buckman and Martinus N. Nestle; commissioners of highways, 
John Eisenlord, Rudolph Dygert and Michael W. Bauder ; overseers of 



TOWN OF PALATINE. 331 

the poor, Joseph Wagner and Joseph G. Klock ; constables, Peter J. 
Nellis, Jonas Reis, John J. Failing, Samuel Frame, John Fralick and 
Samuel Bliss. 

The present equalized valuation of Palatine real and personal estate 
is $2,596,557, upon which taxes to the amount of $11,682 were levied 
in 1 89 1. The town is divided into eleven school districts, having a pop- 
ulation of 831 children of school age, 557 of whom were attending school 
during the year. The total average daily attendance was 299. Fif- 
teen teachers are employed, whose salaries aggregate $5,674 75 per 
annum. The school libraries contain 1,434 volumes, the total value of 
which is $1,171. The school sites and houses in the town are valued at 

$19,555- 

The supervisors of Palatine since 1827 have been as follows: Chris- 
topher C. Fox, 1827; Martinus Dillenbeck, 1828-29; Charles Wag- 
goner, 1830; Joshua Reed, 1831-32; George Waggoner, 1833; David 
Zielley, 1834; George Waggoner, 1835; Henry A. Loucks, 1836; 
Peter G. Loucks, 1837; Jacob G. Snell, 1838-39; Martinus I. Dillen- 
back, 1840; Jacob S. Snell, 1841 ; Joseph England, 1842-43; Mar- 
tinus Dillenback, 1844-45; Joseph Spraker, 1846-47; Charles Wal- 
rath, 1848; Joseph England, 1849; Livingston Spraker, 1850-51 
John K. Gramps, 1852; Archibald Gray, 1853; George Wagner, 1854 
Joshua Veeder, 1855 ; Azariah Saltsman, 1856; Joseph Spraker, 1857 
John A. Failing, 1858; Joseph Spraker, 1859; John W. Saltsman, 
i860; Jeremiah Strayer, 1861-62; Joshua Veeder, 1863-64; Reuben 
Lipe, 1865-69; Azariah Saltsman, 1870-73 ; David S. Patten, 1874- 
75; Ellas J. EUithorp, 1876-77; Jacob C.Cook 1878-79; Jacob 
Snell, 1880; Jacob C. Nellis, 1881-82; Azariah Saltsman, 1883-84; 
Daniel G. Van Wie, 1885-87; John M. Lipe, 1888-89; William N. 
Johnson, 1890-92. 

The town clerks during a corresponding period have been : Aaron 
Veeder, 1827; George L Zielley, 1828-29; Joshua Reed, 1830; Jesse 
Loucks, 1831*; Archibald Sternberg, 1832; Jost W. Snell, 1833-34; 
Joseph England, 1835-36 ; Jacob P. Snell, 1837 ; Bernard Getman, 
1838; Jacob Shaver, 1839; Joseph England, 1840; Josiah L Shultz, 
1 841 ; Joshua Empie, 1842 ; Andrew A. Dillenback, 1843 ! James Bau- 
der, 1844; John C. Kilts, 1845; William Baker, 1846; Conrad Kilts, 



332 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

1847-48; Alexander Snell, 1849; Azariah Saltsman, 1850-5 i ; Josiah 
Lasher, 1852; Jeremiah Strayer, 1853-54; James H. Dygert, 1855; 
S. Ludlow Frey, 1856; Josiah Sitterly, 1857; Jeremiah Strayer, 1858- 
59; Josiah Sitterly, i860 ; Jacob J. Vosburgh, 1861-62 ; James Bauder, 
1S63; Jacob C. Cook, 1864; James Bauder, 1865-66; David Dillen- 
back, 1867-68; Jacob Snell, 1869; James Bauder, 1870; Hermon 
Brown, 1871-72; Edward I. Nellis, 1873-74; Clark Kilts, 1875-76; 
Clark Nellis, 1877-78; Jacob Snell. 1879; John L. Vosburgh, 1880- 
81 ; Albert E. Newman, 1882-83; Charles F. Meyer, 1884; Aaron 
England, 1885-86 ; William Murray, 1887 ; John Coppernoli, 1888-89; 
David Dillenback, 1890-91 ; Ed J. Seeber, 1892. 

The present town officers include the following : Supervisor, William 
N. Johnston ; town clerk, Ed J. Seeber ; justices of the peace, Casper 
Getiiian, Elias J. Ellithorp, James W. Nellis, Aaron England ; assessors, 
Daniel G. Van Wie, Chauncey Wagner, Frasier Nellis ; collector, Lo- 
renzo P. Smith ; overseer of the poor, Dwight E. Floyd 

The following figures will show the population of the town of Pala- 
tine during the years named : 1825, 4,072; 1830,2,745; 1835,2,876; 
1840,2,823; 1845, 2,695; 1850, 2,856; 1855, 2,525; i860, 2,605; 
1865,2,561; 1870,2,814; 1875,2,706, 1880,2,786; 1890,2,871. 



CHAPTER XXVn. 

TOWN OF ROOT. 

ROOT is the central town on the south of the Mohawk. It is 
bounded on the east by Glen and Charleston ; on the south by 
Schohaiie county, and on the west by Canajoharie. The surface of this 
town presents a variety of natural features surpassing in extent and 
grandeur any other portion of the county, in fact it is doubtful if any 
other equal area in the Mohawk valley contains so many interesting 
works of nature. The geologist and the naturalist here find subjects 
for thought and discussion, while the admirer of beautiful scenery is 
charmed with the prospect from the heights in the northern and central 



TOWN OF ROOT. 333 

portions of the town. The majestic hills that rise abruptly from the 
Mohawk to a height of 630 feet (surveyed by Capt. Thomas Machin),' 
from the northern crest of an undulating upland, the soil of which varies 
from a dark colored loam and clay bottom (near the eastern border), to 
a gravelly loam in the centre, and more or less clay and light soil in the 
western portion of the town. A fine quality of building stone crops 
out on some of the summits, but owing to the steep hills and heavy 
grades these quarries have seldom been worked. An abundance of 
black slate is found near the centre of the town. Agriculture is the 
principal interest, and although hay is the chief crop, oats, barley, corn 
and buckwheat are raised in abundance. In the vicinity of Currytown 
hops are grown with much success. Tiie adaptability of the soil to 
grazing was recognized by the firmers at an early day, and thus we 
find extensive dairies and cheese factories scattered throughout the 
town. The manufacture of cheese has not, however, of late been car- 
ried on to the former excent, as the high prices paid for good hay offer 
gieater advantage to the agriculturist. 

The two principal streams in Root are Yatesville and Flat creeks. 
The former enters the town on its eastern border from Charleston and 
flows in a northerly direction, emptying into the Mohawk at Randall, 
formerly Yatesville. This stream was called by the Indians " Wason- 
tha," as is shown by a land grant dated 1727. A beautiful cascade is 
to be seen about one mile north of Rural Grove, where this stream falls 
twenty or twenty- five feet, affording a scene of picturesque attraction. A 
grist-mill was erected at this point at a very early day by a man named 
Vrooman the place being for many years known as Vrooman's Falls. 
The mill was carried away by high water in 18 13. Flat creek, which 
takes its name from the shallowness of a portion of its stream, rises in 
the extreme southern part of the town and flows in an irregular north- 
erly direction, making a circuitous detour into Canajoharie, and empty- 
ing into the Mohawk at Sprakers. A large portion of the course of 
this stream is composed of natural features differing from those to which 

1 Captain Machin was in service during the revolution, and was employed by Washington to 
make the chain which was stretched across the Hudson at West Point. Some links of this im- 
mense chain are still preserved, and it is surprising that such an immense work in iron could have 
been done in that rude condition of mechanics. This chain kept the British vessels from ascend- 
ing the river to attack Albany. Captain Machin is also mentioned in our history of Charleston, 
where he passed his last days. 



334 filSTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

it owes its name. For a number of miles it flows through an incHning 
stratum of gravel and slate, its banks forming steep and rugged ravines, 
and at a point one mile above Sprakers, there is a fall of sixty-five feet. 
At several places along its course prospecting parties have successfully 
brought to the surface mineral ore containing fifty per cent, of lead, and 
fifteen of silver, as shown by the assay of the state geologist, and this 
led to the formation of the Canajoharie Mining Company. 

Facing the river on the northern border of Root, about two miles 
east of Sprakers is a bold promontory which is mentioned in connection 
with a similar spur on the opposite side of the Mohawk, as " The Noses." 
These abrupt and lofty hills were frequently used to mark boundaries in 
the early divisions of Tryon county. 

Another striking natural feature within the limits of the town is 
Mitchell's cave, which is located in a margin of the woods on " Nose 
Hill," about one and one-half miles from Sprakers. The entrance is 
quite small, scarcely large enough to admit a man of heavy stature, and 
the passage to the first landing, sloping northward, is made with diffi- 
culty by the aid of a rope firmly attached to trees. The interior of the 
cave consists of several rooms or separate caverns, connected by pass- 
ageways, the farthest one yet explored apparently being about four 
hundred feet from the entrance. Martin Carson explored the cave in 
1837 and his description of it is highly interesting. He sa)'s the pass- 
age from the second to the third room is the most dangerous, leading 
along a shelving rock, the surface of which is wet and slippery, and 
bordering which was a narrow and perpendicular chasm, so deep that 
stones cast into it sent back echoes from a seemingly incalculable depth. 
The Carson party went as far as the thirteenth room, which was the larg- 
est of all, being possibly forty feet wide and twenty-five feet in height. 
The dome of this room was studded with beautiful stalactites of various 
shapes and sizes. Subsequent explorers speak of the fourth room as 
being large, and having in its ceiling or dome, a huge rock, which seems 
to be on the verge of falling. The sound of rushing water can be 
plainly heard in some parts of the cave, and in the lower room, several 
hundred feet below the surface, there is a pool of water, the depth of 
which is not known. The great danger attached to a survey of this won- 
derful work of nature has prevented a more extended exploration of 
its depths by naturalists and men of science. 



TOWN OF ROOT. 335 

Root was formed from Canajoharie and Charleston, January 27, 1823, 
and named in honor of Erastus Root, of Delaware county, a noted po- 
Htical leader of tliat time. Its area, whicli consists of 30,463^ acres, 
is greater than that of any otlier town in the county. This territory 
embraces parts of nine different land grants, the earliest of which was 
known as the Burnet patent. It consisted of 775 acres, including the 
present site of Randall village, and was granted to William Burnet, jr., 
February 24, 1726. The Provost patent of 8,000, lying next west of 
the above, was granted to Provost, Cocus, Van Wyck and others, March 
8, 1726. The Livingston patent of 775 acres, extending southeast 
form the river in the northeastern corner of the town, was granted to 
Robert Livingston, jr., March 10, 1726. The Roseboom patent of 
1,500 acres, included the hill known as " Anthony's Nose," and ex- 
tended southeast within a mile of the site of Currytown. It was granted 
to Johannes Roseboom, April 29, 1726. Archibald Kennedy received 
a patent for 775 acres of land, lying between the Livingston land and 
the Ten Eyck patent, the latter in the present town of Glen. It in- 
cluded what is known as Stone Ridge, and was granted April 18, 1727. 
Ten years later, June 17, 1737, Timothy Bagley and C. Williams re- 
ceived a patent of 4,000 acres in the south part of the town, extending 
into the sontheastern part of Canajoharie. The next grant, which was 
the largest of all, was Corry's patent of 25,400 acres, embracing parts 
of the present towns of Charleston, Glen and Root, and granted to Will- 
iam Corry, George Clarke and others, November 19, 1737. Winne's 
patent of 4,000 acres, adjoining Roseboom on the south and west, and 
including the site of Flat Creek village, was granted to Peter Winne and 
others, October 6, I74'- John Daniel Gros, an early preacher, received 
a title to the Gros patent, which embraced parts of the towns of Root 
and Canajoharie, March 30, 1786. 

First White Settlement. — The first permanent white settler in Root, 
of which there is any authentic record, was Jacob Dievendorf, who 
located on the present site of Currytown. He came some time 
prior to the revolution, and with him were Rudolph Keller, David and 
Frederick Lewis, and Jacob Tanner, but the precise location of the early 
abodes of these latter named pioneers is not definitely known. Most 
of them were pre eminently fitted for the aggressive work necessary for 



336 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

the establishment of homes in a wilderness, being descendants of a 
hard}' German race, accustomed to toil and privation. Their powers 
of endurance, however, were taxed less in their efforts to clear the land 
of its native growth, than in protecting theirprimitive homes and the lives 
of their families from the bloody incursions of the savage and the 
tory. The most disastrous of these raids took place on July 9, 1781, 
under the lead of the tory, Doxtader. When the alarm was given the 
settlers hastened to a picketed block-house near the dwelling of Henry 
Lewis, closely pursued by the enemy. The savage horde set fire to 
every house in the village, except one, but what might have been an 
extensive loss was prevented bj' the timely arrival of Colonel Willett's 
forces, who were in time to extinguish some of the fires. Frederick, 
son of Jacob Dievendorf, was scalped, as was also his brother, Jacob, jr., 
and the latter was taken prisoner. Both fortunately recovered and re- 
turned after the retreat of the Indians. Jacob, jr., lived to acquire 
wealth and influence in the community, being at the lime of his death 
one of the largest land owners in Montgomery county. He died at his 
residence in Curry town, October 8, 1854, at the advanced age of eighty- 
four years. 

During the above mentioned raid, Marj- Miller, a little girl, was 
scalped and found alive, but soon after died from the effects of her in- 
juries. Authentic record has been made of the miraculous escapes of a 
number of others who participated in that memorable struggle. One 
of these was the eldest son of Rudolph Keller, who lived too far from 
the fort to reach it in safety, and hence hurried with his family to a 
dense woods, where they escaped injury. They were compelled to wit- 
ness the destruction of their home with its contents. Peter Bellinger, 
who came into the town subsequent to the arrival of the Dievendorfs, 
was plowing in a field when the raiders appeared, and loosening his 
horse from the plow, he mounted and fled in safety toward the Mohawk. 
A party of savages who started in pursuit of him captured Jacob 
Moyer and his father who were hiding in the woods, and scalped and 
killed them both. How much like fiction these tales sound in the ears 
of the modern reader, and yet scarcely more than a hundred years 
have elapsed since the homes of those struggling pioneers were laid in 
ashes, and the wives, mothers, and children perished in the fiendish 
Indian warfare. 



tOWN OP ROOT. 337 

Among other early settlers in Root were the Sprakers, Van Everas, 
Hubbses, Lykers, Snows and Downings, who are mentiond in another 
port of our history. 

The town records of Root have been well preserved since the date of 
organization, and this good condition is undoubtedly due to the fact 
that the office of town clerk has frequently been held by one incumbent 
for several consecutive years. In reviewing the names of town clerks 
we find the remarkable fact that three prominent men of Root, who, 
during their younger days occupied that office, afterwards achieved po- 
litical and social prominence, and were elected to the assembly. These 
were John Bowdish, Freeman P. Moulton, and the present assemblyman 
from this district, George J. Gove, of Rural Grove. Mr. Bowdish was 
elected to the assembly in 1841, and Mr. Moulton in 1863. Among 
the supervisors we also find Gamaliel Bowdish, who was elected assem- 
blyman in 1847. 

The first town meeting and election of officers was held shortly after 
the organization of the town in January, 1823. The following list com- 
prises the names of supervisors from that date to the present time. 
David C. Hubbs, 1823-26; Henry Lycker, 1827-28; David C. Hubbs, 
1829; Henry I. Dievendorf, 1830; George Spraker, 1831-33; John 
Burns, jr., 1834-35; Jacob Vosburgh, 1836-37; William C. Hubbs, 
1838-39; Simeon Snow, 1840-41 ; John L. Bevens, 1842-43; Robert 
Yates, 1844-45; Charles Hubbs, 1846-48; Frederick J. Starin, 1849- 
50; Abram W. Gardinier, 1851; John Bowdish, 1852-53; Charles 
Hubbs, 1854; James W. Lyker, 1855-56; George I. E. Lasher, 1857- 
58; Gamaliel Bowdish, 1859-60; David Quackenbush, 1861-63; Will- 
iam B. Dievendorf, 1864; Ira J. Carr, 1865-66; Samuel Morrell, jr., 
1867 ; Charles Hubbs, 1868-72; Freeman P. Moulton, 1873-76; Miles 
Yates, 1877-78; Robert C. Failing, 1879; Jacob D. Snow, 1880-81; 
Washington Downing, 1882-83; George J. Gove, 1884-85; Jacob 
Dievendorf, 1886-88; George J. Gove, 1889-91 ; A. A. Lyker, 1892. 

The town clerks during the corresponding period have been as fol- 
lows : Cornelius C. Hubbard, 1823-25 ; Joshua Young, 1826-29; John 
Bowdish, 1830-40; Thomas W. Bingham, 1841 ; Charles Hubbs, 1842- 
43; Josiah Lasher, 1844-47; Henry Burns, 1848-49; Hiram Burns, 
1850; Elias Yates, 1851; Barnabas Vrooman, 1852-53; Isaac Folms- 
43 



338 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

bee, 1854-56; Henry Van Buren, 1857-58; John Braugham, 1859-60; 
Aurelian Mallett, 1861-63; George J. Gove, 1864-65; Henry Mallett, 
1866-67; Reuben Dievendorff, 1868-70; Herbert A. Quackenbush, 
1871-72; Edwin Folmsbee, 1873; John W. Gordon, 1874-75; Reu- 
ben Dievendorff, 1876; Peter A.Smith, 1877-78; Silas VV. Cohen, 
1879; Martin Van Buren, 1880-81; J. Bowdish Gove, 1882; James 
Folmsbee, jr.,, 1883; Malachi B.Spencer, 1S84-85 ; Hibbard Burns, 
1886-92. 

The present town officers include the following: Supervisor, A. A. 
Lyker ; town clerk, Hibbard Burns ; justices of the peace, Herbert W. 
Riggs, David V. Dunn, J. Bowdish Gove, and Frank R. Bradt; asses- 
sors, George A. Dillenback, Menzo Gardinier, and Henry Runkle; col- 
lector, Albert C. Shults; overseer of the poor, James S. Allen. 

The relative importance of any town is. always better illustrated by a 
reference to the number of its inhabitants, and the following figures will 
show the population of Root, which has varied in a striking manner. 
In 1825, 2,806 ; 1830,2,750; 1835,2,918; 1840,2,979; 1845,2,804; 
1850, 2,736; 1855, 2,748; i860, 2,622; 1865, 2,456; 1870, 2,492; 
1875, 2,290; 1880, 2,275 ; 1890, 2,041. 

Schools, Past and Present. — The educational advantages of Root, and 
in fact, of the whole county, so far as the public schools are concerned, 
during the period of its first white settlement, were in rather a forma- 
tive condition which in these days would be very unsatisfactory. The 
first schools in Root were composed of German scholars and German 
masters, this tongue being used exclusively, but as settlers from New 
England and the British Isles entered the community both the language 
and modes of teaching were gradually changed and improved. A ped- 
agogue named Glaycher taught an English school near the Noses, in 
1784, and it is probable that private schools existed in various parts of 
the town after the beginning of the present centurj'. Some of the 
well-to-do farmers who manifested a marked desire for learning were 
sent to the academy at Johnstown, and finished education at eastern 
colleges. The district school system was in operation at the time Root 
was formed. Its territory is now divided into fourteen districts, in 
which there is a population of 603 children of school age. Of this num. 
ber 465 attend school, with a daily average of 210. Thirteen teachers 



TOWN OF ROOT. 339 

are employed, whose salaries aggregated $3,688.21 during the year 
1891. The school libraries contain 449 volumes, the total value of 
which is $152. The sites and school buildings of the town are valued 
at $9,325. 

VILLAGES. 

Rural Grove. — The largest and most important village and centre of 
trade in town is situated on Yatesville creek, about five miles south of 
the Mohawk. The record of its settlement dates back to the year 1828, 
when Abram H. Vanderveer formed a partnership with Henry Stowits, 
erected a dwelling and subsequently a large tannery on the site of the 
residence of the late John Bowdish. Stowits gave the name of Union- 
ville to the cluster of houses which soon surrounded the tannery, but 
later on this name was exchanged for the less euphonious title of 
Leatherville. Isaac B. Walker built an inn in 1828, and conducted it 
for several years, and it was afterward kept by Henry Van Buren. A 
store was erected by William A. Covenhoven, and on the 2d day of 
June, 1829, John Bowdish and Isaac S. Frost began the mercantile busi- 
ness. This same building was afterwards occupied by Mr. Bowdish 
when in partnership with George J. Gove. 

The post-ofifice was removed to this place from Currytown in 1832, 
to which was given the town name, Root. John Bowdish received the 
first appointment as postmaster, and held the ofiice for half a century, 
a remarkable example of postal service and an evidence of great integ- 
rity. 

The village is not essentially a manufacturing place, but aside from 
the usual mercantile trade carried on in a place of several hundred in- 
habitants, it supports a grist-mill and cheese factory. The present 
name of Rural Grove was adopted by the post- ofSce department in 1872, 
although several residents had used the name in dating their corres- 
pondence as early as 1850. It was suggested by a beautiful grove of 
elms on the west border of the village. 

The Methodist church of Rural Grove was built in 1845, but a society 
of this denomination existed in the community long prior to that date. 
Among the early preachers were Revs. Starks and Emerson, and after 
the erection of the house of worship the pulpit was supplied for a time 



340 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

by Rev. Mosher of Canajoharie. A second church edifice was erected 
in i860 three miles distant, which togetlier with the Argusville society 
was for many years connected with the Rural Grove charge. Among 
the pastors who have officiated at this church since 1870 will be remem- 
bered Reverends Elam Marsh, Le Grand Jones, George C. Simmons, 
Milton Tator, Charles A. S. Heath, and the last pastor. Rev. J. G. Per- 
kins. 

The Christian church of Rural Grove, which was organized in March, 
1854, included among its first members Elias Yates, Thomas J. Van- 
derveer, Jacob I. Vanderveer, Henry C. Hamilton, John Dopp, and 
Henry Shibley, all of whom served as trustees. The church was 
erected during the summer of 1854 and was dedicated on the 8th of 
November, Rev. Obadiah E. Morrell officiating. The first regular pas- 
tor was Rev. John Ross, who, with assistants, filled the pulpit until 
December 28, 1865, when the societj' was reorganized upon the ac- 
cession of seventy- seven members from the church at Charleston Four 
Corners. After reorganization the pulpit was first filled by Rev. A. 
A. Lason, who was succeeded by Rev. J. C. Burgdurf, during whose 
pastorate, in 1874, the building was enlarged and improved at an ex- 
pense of about $Soo. The rededication took place June il. Among 
the pastors who have served the church since the departure of Mr. Burg- 
durf may be mentioned Revs. Moore, Fenton, E. D. Hammond, Hay- 
ner, Humphrey, McGlauflin and the present minister. Rev. C. C. Thorn, 
who came in April, 1892. 

Sprakers is a small village located on the Mohawk at the mouth of 
Flat creek. It is also a station on the West Shore railroad and a sup- 
ply point for boats on the Erie canal. The land on which the village 
stands was acquired by George Spraker from his father, Jost Spraker, 
who was one of the Mohawk valley pioneers. George built a tavern 
here which was kept both by himself and by succeeding landlords for 
many years until finally destrojed by fire. Daniel Spraker built a store 
in 1822 and until the canal was completed was engaged in the transfer 
of freight between the unfinished sections. When the line of the canal 
was changed he moved his store to its bank and after a successful busi- 
ness career of twenty-eight years was succeeded b\' the present propri- 
etor, David Quackenbush. 



TOWN OF ROOT. 341 

Joseph Spencer began business on the bank of the canal shortly after 
its completion, and built up a large and lucrative trade. He subse- 
quently retired, and John L. Bevins purchased the business. Upon the 
enlargement of the canal he erected a substantial stone building, and 
after a few years the store came into the possession of the Cohens, and 
is now conducted by Silas W Cohen, a member of the same family. 
The stone store is remarkably well preserved, and from all appearances 
will accommodate a large trade for many years to come. 

George Spraker was the first postmaster at this point, holding the of- 
fice for a number of years. Among his successors have been David 
Quackenbush, Henry Cohen, Mrs. Hannah Cohen, and the present in- 
cumbent, Silas W. Cohen. David Quackenbush also held the office a 
second time during the Cleveland administration. 

The Reformed Church of Sprakers was built in 1858, on land given 
by George Spraker. A very old church had existed at this point prior 
to that time, a part of which was used in the construction of a store now 
standing on the south side of the canal lock. The society was for many 
years connected with the Reformed Church of Stone Arabia. Among 
the pastors officiating at Sprakers since 1858 have been Revs. E. Vine 
Wales, Nanning Bogardus, D. K. Van Dorn, J. A. Compton, John 
Miner, and the present pastor, John A. Thomas, who came July i, 
1887. The church has an active Sunday-school, of which O. C. Van 
Evera is superintendent. 

The Spraker's Basin cheese factory, established some twelve years 
ago, is operated by Lorenzo Edgerton. 

Currytown is the oldest village in Root, and was settled some time 
prior to the revolution by Jacob Dievendorf A store was established 
at this place at a very early day by John McKernan, in a building on 
the corner opposite the residence of the late Dr. Snow. McKernan af- 
terwards retired, and in 1820 built a bridge across the Mohawk at Ran- 
dall, but the structure was carried away by the first high water. It was 
at Currytown rhat the first post-office in Root was established, the mail 
being brought by a post rider. The postmaster was Daniel Cuck, who 
was an early settler. His successor was Walter Conkling, and after him 
the office was held by John Bowdish, during whose tenure it was re- 
moved to Rural Grove. Currytown was then without a post-ofifice for 



342 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

a long period, but another has recently been established there, and 
Reuben Dievendorf is postmaster. There is no mercantile business 
transacted in the village now, but the substantial farm houses and build- 
ings and well cultivated fields all give evidence of prosperity. 

The Reformed Church of Currytown is the oldest religious organiza- 
tion in Root, having organized in or about 1790, and erected a house of 
worship as early as 1 809. Probably the first pastor to officiate regu- 
larly for the society was Rev. Peter Van Buren, who was there in 1806 
and preached at private houses. The old church was remodeled and 
greatly improved in 1849, and the original spire replaced by a new one. 
Thus enlarged and repaired, the old structure served the congregation 
until 1883, when the present beautiful edifice was erected at a cost of 
about $7,500. The pastors who have officiated at this church during 
the past fifteen years include Rev. E. G. Ackerman, who came in 1878; 
James M. Compton, from 1879 until September i, 1882 ; John Miner, 
in 1883, and the present pastor. Rev. H. H. Sangree. who came in 
March, 1888. The church has seventy-three communicating members, 
and a Sunday-school of fifty scholars, Reuben Dievendorf being super- 
intendent. 

Randall is the name of a post-office and village on the Mohawk and 
Erie canal, near the mouth of Yatesville creek. It was originally called 
Yatesville, but when the post-oflSce was established, in 1863, the name 
of Randall was suggested and adopted by the first postmaster, Louis 
Lounsbery. Mr. Lounsbery held the office until the Cleveland ad- 
ministration in 1885, when he was succeeded by Washington Downing. 
The office is now held by Louis Lounsber}-, a son of the first postmas- 
ter. The railway station at this point is called Downing. A Christian 
Church society was organized at Randall about the middle of the pres- 
ent century, and meetings were held in the school house for many 
years, the society being connected with that of Rural Grove, and re- 
ceiving the services of the ministers at the latter place. The present 
church was built in 1885 through the earnest efforts of some of the 
prominent residents, among whom were Peter Van Evera and family. 
The dedication took place December 10, 1885, Rev. Mr. Hayner oflS- 
ciating. The pastors since Mr. Hayner's departure have been Revs. 
Humphrey, McGlauflin, Sweet, Marvin, and the present minister, Rev. 



TOWN OP ROOT. 343 

W. H. Shaw, who came in 1891. The church has about seventy mem- 
bers. In 1820 a bridge was built across tlie river at this point, but be- 
ing constructed too low was soon swept away. 

Flat Creek is situated on the creek from which it takes its name, 
about four miles south of the Mohawk. A large amout of business for- 
merly centered at this place, and Hibbard & Wessels who kept an early 
store there had an extensive trade. John Rums, jr., also engaged 
in business at this place for a number of years. There were two hotels 
at one time, but there is only one now, the Hotel Wessels, conducted by 
Mrs. Mary E. Wessels. 

The Baptist church at Flat Creek was built in i860 and regular meet- 
ings were held for fifteen or 16 years, but recently the Reformed pastors 
from Currytown have officiated in this pulpit, the Baptist society hav- 
ingdisbanded. The True Dutch Reformed church at Flat Creek was built 
in 1885 and is supplied once a month with ministers from New Jersey. 
Isaac Folmsbee was postmaster at this place for many years, being suc- 
ceeded in August, 1885, by Hibbard Burns, who still holds the office. 

The Flat Creek cheese factory was built in 1865 by John I. Brown and 
two years latter was purchased by a company having a capital of 
$3,100. William A. Dievendorff was president. It is now operated by 
Samuel Hilton who took charge about ten years since. Lorenzo Folms- 
bee also conducts a steam saw and feed rriill at this point. 

Brown's Hollozv, in the southern part of the town ; Bundy's Corners, 
and Lykers Corners are hamlets consisting of a few houses each. At 
the first named place Henry Lyker erected a grist-mill at an early day, 
the property subsequently coming into the possession of John Brown, 
who increased the water power by tunneling a thousand feet through 
the hill. The mill was burned many years ago and rebuilt by Mr. 
Brown, but of recent years has only done a small business. A distillery, 
saw mill, linseed oil mill, carding machine and fulling mill were also in 
operation in Brown's Hollow in former times, but have passed away and 
the place can hardly expect their return. 



344 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 



CHAPTER XXVII. 
TOWN OF CHARLESTON. 

T^HIS is the only town in Montgomery county that does not border 
upon the Mohawk river. It is bounded on the north by Glen; on the 
east by Schoharie creek, which also serves as a dividing line from Flor- 
ida; on the south bj' Schoharie county, and on the west by Root. Its 
surface is composed chiefly of high plateau immediately west of Scho- 
harie creek, the greater part of which is undulating uplands. Abrupt 
and narrow valleys or ravines with small streams also form a marked 
feature of the topography of the town. In the eastern part bluft's from 
50 to 100 feet in height are found bordering on Schoharie creek. The 
principal stream within its limits is Mill brook, which flows in an east- 
erly direction, emptying into the Schoharie two miles north of Burton- 
ville. The soil is loam generally intermixed with clay, and is adapted 
to spring grain and grazing. 

Charleston is a very old town, and its territory has been at difierent 
times much reduced by the formation of other towns. Mention has fre- 
quently been made in this volume of the five districts into wliich Tryon 
county was divided in 1772. Of these that part of the Mohawk dis- 
trict which comprises the region south of the river and extending from 
the easterly bounds of the county west to a north and south line cross- 
ing the river at Anthony's Nose, was in 1788 organized as the town of 
Mohawk. Thus it continued for five years, when on March 12, 1693, 
its territory was divided, th£.t east of the Schoharie being formed into 
the town of Florida ; and that west of the stream into the town of 
Charleston. Thus the old town of Mohawk went out of existence, but 
the name was appropriately selected for the new town created in 1837 
from a part of Johnstown. It will thus be seen that Charleston, when 
first organized, bordered upon the Mohawk, but with the increase of 
population, and the inconvenience of travel to town meetings, a division 
was made necessary, and in 1823 Glen and a part of Root were taken 



TOWN OF CHARLESTON. 345- 

off, leaving Charleston with about 25,432 acres, which is its present area. 
The early land grants in Charleston comprise part of the following : 
Bagley's patent, 25,400 acres, granted to Timothy Bagley and twelve 
others, November 19, 1737 ; Corry's patent, 25,400 acres, granted to 
William Corry, George Clarke and others, November 19, 1737; and 
the Stone Heap patent, 15,500 acres, granted to Daniel Claus, John 
Bowen, and fifteen others, September 15, 1770. 

The last named patent derived its singular name from a large pile of 
stones, known as the " Stone Heap," situated on the road leading north 
from Oak Ridge, a hamlet in the southern part of the town. This pile 
of stones attracts attention from the legendary tales that hover about 
it and which have been handed down from the time of Indian occupan- 
cy. Probably the oldest of these traditions is that long prior to ihe 
revolution a white man was killed upon the spct. and that ^ince ihat 
time every passing Indian was compelled to cast a stone upon it. Al- 
though the fact is well substantiated that each Indian passing the spot, 
and there were many, for this was the old Indian trail leading through 
the Schoharie Valley from the Susquehanna to the Mohawk county, 
complied with the above requirement. Less credence is given to this 
tradition than to one which simply accounts for the pile of stone as the 
result of a custom of the Indians, when visiting a stream or spring to 
throw a twig or stone in a conspicuous place, indicating to other trav- 
elers that a friend had passed. One writer, speaking of the stone heap, 
says : " Somewhere between Schoharie creek and Caughnawaga com- 
menced an Indian road or foot-path, which led to Schoharie. Near 
this road has been seen, from time immemorial, a large pile of 
stone, which has given the name ' Stone Heap patent,' to the tract on 
which it occurs, as may be seen from ancient deeds." In 1753 Rev. 
Gideon Hawley made a tour of the adjacent country, and wrote as fol- 
lows concerning their strange memorial. "We came to a resting place 
and breathed our horses, and slaked our thirst at the stream, when we 
perceived our Indian looking for a stone, which, having found, he cast 
to a heap which for ages had been accumulating by passengers, li]<e 
him who was our guide. We inquired why he observed that rite. He 
answered that his father practiced it and enjoined it on him. But he 
did not like to talk on the subject." Mr. Hawley continued, " this cus- 



346 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

torn or rite is an acknowledgment of an invisible being. We may style 
him the unknown God whom this people worship. This heap is his 
altar. The stone that is collected is the oblation of the traveler, which, 
if offered with a good mind, may be as acceptable as a consecrated ani- 
mal. But perhaps these heaps of stones may be erected to a local 
deity, which most probably is the case." Ruttenber, speaking on the 
same subject, is inclined to doubt the statement that the stones formed 
any part of a rite of worship and says, " the stone heaps were always 
by the side of a trail or regularly traveled path, and usually at or near 
a stream of water." 

Many of Charleston's early settlers, some of whom came prior to the 
revolution, were undoubtedly attracted to the locality by the availabil- 
ity of Schoharie creek as a source of mill power, and at an early day 
•day along the banks of this stream were erected numerous grist and 
saw-mills. Among the pioneers who first located within the town were 
Thomas Machin, who was interested in one of the land patents; Cap- 
tain John Stanton, Robert Winchell, Adin Bromley, Henry Mayes, 
David Kimball, Nathan Kimball, Ezekiel Tracy, Nathan Tracy, Abner 
Throop, John Eddy, and Abiah Beaman. After the revolution the im- 
migration was more rapid and included many thrifty New Englanders, 
some of the descendants of whom are yet residents of Montgomery 
county. Among these later settlers were Judah Burton, Abram Davis, 
John Butler, Charles Earing, Benjamin Beard, John Reimer, John 
Brand, John Hamilton, Isaac Conover, Peter Fero, Edward Montanye, 
Henry Shibley, John Schuyler, Garret I. Lansing, Alexander Hubbs, 
George Teeple, John Cochley, John Hoag, Elijah Herrick, Abram 
Guile, Ephraim Burtch, William Jamison, Joshua Tubbs, Christian 
Overbaugh, Sylvanus Willoughby, James Sutphen, Benjamin H. Knee- 
land, Elias Cady, Francis Hoag, Nathaniel Bowdish, Ira H. Corbin, 
James Jermain, Henry G. Haley, David Hamilton, James and Peleg 
Pettys, Cornelius Wiser, Sergeant Heath, Daniel Bryant, Clark Ran- 
dall, Thomas Leak, Michael Winter, Jacob Weed, Jacob Smith, Ethan 
Eaton, Stephen Borden, Ezra Gordon, Richard Davis, Moses Pierson, 
Richard Clute, William Fero, and John Onderkirk. 

These early pioneers found a country covered with a hardy growth 
of timber, and traversed by few and laborious trails. Many of the first 



TOWN OF CHARLESTON. 34T 

comers, particularly those who came from adjoining counties, left their 
families behind for a time, until they could clear sufficient land to build 
a log dwelling and sow the first crop. They generally went back to 
their old home during the intervening winters. Those who reached 
the town prior to the revolution witnessed many of the bloody scenes 
enacted by the tories and Indians, who scoured the country along the 
Indian trail leading north from Schoharie. On one of these occasions 
the British and Indians were pursued by a party of American militia. 
The former, when in the neighborhood of what is now Oak Ridge, 
constructed a barricade of their baggage wagons, behind which they 
attempted to repulse the Americans. Their resistance was not of long 
duration, however, and setting fire to the barricade they soon made a 
rapid retreat. 

A history of Charleston would be incomplete uithout reference to the 
lamentable state of affairs in which a portion of the inhabitants in the 
central, northern and western part of the town have been at times in- 
volved. These were the tenants of the Clark lands. George Clark, 
lieutenant-governor of the colony of New York in 1737, at the time the 
Corry patent of more than 25,000 acres was granted, became secretly 
interested in this tract, which was surveyed and laid out and a division 
made between the owners. Clark then returned to England, leaving 
his sons, George, and Edward, in New York, to whom he bequeathed 
the property. Upon the death of Edward, who survived his brother, 
these lands came by inheritance to his oldest son, George Hyde Clark, 
who taking sides with the colonists during the revolution, was protected 
in his title, although it had originally been granted by the crown. 
After the war he succeeded in leasing the property to settlers, by what 
was known as a " three life" lease, the usual rental being one shilling 
per acre. The tenants built houses and barns, cleared away timber, 
and received the customary rights of ownership. In this manner the 
Clark lands passed from father to son for several years, the inheritor 
always bearing the name of George Clark. The last owner to the Clark 
land, instead of adhering to the custom of his ancestors in charging a 
nominal rental, pursued a difterent course, and when a lease expired the 
rent was immediately raised, sometimes as high as $2 and $3 per acre. 
So incensed were the tenants by this injustice, that when they vacated a 



348 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

farm, which was in many instances eviction for non payment of rent, 
they burned the houses and barns they had built. In this manner be- 
gan that period of devastation which so seriously shocked the surround- 
ing community. For years this unfortunate condition existed, and now 
along almost every highway in that unfortunate district can be seen the 
ruins of former homes, while much of the land is in a wild uncultivated 
state. An effort was made at one time to dispossess Clark by legal pro- 
cess, on the plea that the lands were obtained under a title from the 
British government, but Judge Cady, before whom the case was tried, 
decided that the title was established by possession, and the action was 
barred by the statute of limitations. Since then, however, the failure 
of the landlord threw these lands into the market, and the old tenure 
being canceled, a better condition prevails in this once demoralized 
region. 



Burtoiiville is situated on the Schoharie in the southeast corner of the 
town. Judah Burton, who located on a tract including the site of the 
village, just after the close of the revolution, was the pioneer of the vi- 
cinity, and in 1785 he erected the first saw-mill and grist- mill in the 
town. It was built by Felix Holt, and stood about a half mile below 
the present Burtonville mill. It was carried away bj' high water in 
1 8 14 and never rebuilt. Another mill was built that year, however, by 
Jonathan, Ebenezer and Abram Mudge, and was operated until 1850. 
Judah Burton, a son of the first settler, then built a mill which has since 
been operated by a number of firms, among which were Burton, Smith 
Colyer, Charles M. Sitterly, and J. W. and N. H. Meriness. 

A carding machine and fulling-mill was in operation at this point as 
early as 1810, having been erected by Joseph Blanchard. Woolen 
goods have also been quite extensively manufactured in Burtonville, 
the first enterprise of the kind being started by A. G. Randall in 1844. 
A tannery and nail factory may also be included among the early in- 
dustries of the place. 

The settlement was at first known as Mudge Hollow, a name derived 
from Captain Abram Mudge, who opened the first hotel early in the 
present century. When the post-office was established a few years 



TOWN OF CHARLESTON. 349 

later the name of Eaton's Corners was chosen, but in 1 837 it was changed 
to Burtonville in honor of Judah Burton. Tlie postmasters have in- 
cluded the following persons: Ebenezer Knibslee, 1825 to 1828 ; David 
Eaton, 1828-31 ; Isaac Brownell, Judah Burton, Stephen Hoag, David 
M. Scott, J. D. Bowman, J. Rockwell, and Dewitt C. Chase, who was 
first appointed April 18, 1861. Mr. Chase is the present incumbent. 

Burtonville contains two churches, the Methodist Episcopal, organ- 
ized in 1857, and the Christian church organized in December, 1865. 

The first bridge across Schoharie creek in this town was erected at 
Burtonville in 1790. It was built of wood and remained until 18 14. 
It was replaced by another bridge in 1820 which did service until 1841, 
when it was carried away by high water. An iron bridge was erected 
in 1843, which, in 1869, was also partially carried away, but subse- 
quently repaired and made serviceable. 

Charleston Four Corners is a small village in the eastern part of the 
town. Business was first transacted at this point about 18 10, in which 
year Philip Young erected a hotel there. The first merchant was Isaac 
Frost, who was also the first postmaster, receiving his appointment 
March 5, 1828. With the exception of one year, 1832, in which Jesse 
N. Eaton had the office, Mr. Frost held the ofiice during a period of 
forty- four years. Among his successors have been Judson McDufFee, 
Horace E. Simmons, and the present incumbent, Ellsworth McDuffee. 

The Christian church at this place was first organized as an Associa- 
tion of Free Will Baptists in 18 13, and James Wilson as the first pas- 
tor. Elder John Ross, who came to the society in 1822, remained with 
them fifty years, resigning in the fall of 1872, since which time various 
pastors have filled the pulpit. 

Charlesto7i village, or Rider's Corners, is situated in the northern part 
of the town near the centre. The place was settled shortly after the 
revolution and has at different times contained a hotel, one or two 
stores, a blacksmith shop and tannery. The post-ofiice at this place 
was the first established in the town, Levi Pettibone having been ap- 
pointed postmaster there October i, 1807. Among his successors 
will be remembered such familiar names as John Guernsey, Adam 
Smith, Moses Nash, Benjamin Sheldon, Peter S. Wyckoff, William 
Carlisle, Henry H. Belding, Darius J. Hewitt, Thompson Burton, Will- 



350 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

iam H. Biggam, Elisha H. Brumley, Daniel \V. Schuyler, Charles W. 
Van Dusen and Cornelius D. Hall. 

The First Baptist Church at Rider's Corners is the oldest in the town, 
dating its organization as far back as 1793. The first pastor of this 
society was Rev. Elijah Herrick, who was succeeded by his son Calvin. 

The first school in Charleston was built in iSoo although it is piob- 
able that instruction, however imperfect, had been maintained prior to 
that date. Among the first teachers in the town was Andrew Biggam. 
At present the town is divided into ten districts, in which there is a 
population of 306 school children, 262 of whom attend school. Ten 
teachers are employed at a total expense of $2,000 per annum. The 
school sites and buildings are valued at $5,435. 

The population of the town since 1825 is here given: 1825, 2,102; 
1830, 2,148; 1835, 2,124; 1840, 2,103; 1845, 1,995; ''"^50, 2,216; 
1855, 1,899; i860, 1,837; 1865, 1,687; 1870, 1,601; 1875, 1,399; 
1880, 1,334; 1890, 1,174. John P. Hall is the present supervisor, 
and Ellsworth McDuffee, town clerk. 



CHAPTER XXVni. 

BIOGRAPHICAL. 

STARIN, JOHN H.— From the earliest years of the history of the 
Mohawk valley the name of Starin has been conspicuous in its rec- 
ords. Nicholas Starin was one of the pioneers, and immigrated hither 
in the year 1720. The original family consisted of eight persons, and 
included Nicholas and Catherine, his wife, and their children, named 
Frederick, Valentine, Adam, Tunis, Joseph and Catherine. Their first 
settlement was near the present village of Fonda, but soon afterwards 
several of the sons removed to German Flats, near the residence of 
General Herkimer, under whom they fought at Oriskany. 

John Starin, grandson of Nicholas, was born in 1750 near the present 
site of Fultonville, and was old enough when the French and Indian 
war began to share its perils. The revolution found him ready to en- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 351 

list in the service of his country, which lie did, as also did Nicholas, Ja- 
cob, George, Henry, Valentine, Philip, John and Adam Starin, nine in 
number. During the whole of the great struggle this family showed 
the greatest devotion to the patriotic cause. When peace was declared 
the Starins all became active members of the community, and some of 
them were called to important service. On the organization of Herki- 
mer county in 1791, Henry Starin was appointed first judge John 
Starin, another of the nine, soon after the close of hostilities, opened a 
store and an inn on the south bank of the Mohawk, the spot being near 
the present bridge. Myndert Starin, son of John, was born in 1787, in 
what is now the village of Fultonville. In his youth he served as mail- 
carrier, making a horseback route to and from Johnstown, and as the 
Circuit Court was often held at his father's public house, he early be- 
came acquainted with the business of the day. He was a man of intel- 
ligence and decision, and had a strong love of country. Hence, when 
the draft was made for the war of 181 2, though he was then suffering 
illness, he waived iiis privilege of exemption and stood by the result of 
the draft. He was at this time a captain in the infantry, and when the 
war closed he opened business successfully in Johnstown; but three 
years afterward (18 19) he made Sammonsville the scene of his opera- 
tion. There he built mills, an ashery, hotel, distillery, etc. In 1822, 
associated with the late Thomas Robinson, he purchased a large tract, 
including the present site of Fultonville, and their plans embraced twelve 
different forms of industry. Among these were saw-mills, grist-mills, 
making paper, spinning wool and dressing cloth, to which were to be 
added a nail factory, a distillery and an ashery. The Erie canal was 
then in process of construction, and the plans of Starin & Robinson in- 
cluded the establishment of a dry dock and boat yard. Myndert Starin 
married, March 22, 1816, Rachel Sammons, daughter of Thomas Sam- 
mons, who won distinction in the revolution, and was a member of con- 
gress. Myndert Starin died in 1845, being then in his fifty- eighth 
year, and leaving eight children to the care of the widow. She was a 
Christian woman of strong character, and impressed upon her children 
lessons worthy of such a character. Mrs. Starin died September 6, 

1855- 

John H. Starin, son of Myndert and Rachel Starin, was born August 
27, 1825. His early days were passed in Fultonville, and after attend- 



352 HISTORY OF MONTQOMERY COUXTY. 

ing district school he had a brief course at Esperance. He also at- 
tended the Kingsboro Academy, then a prominent educational institu- 
tion. In 1842, being then seventeen, he began the study of medicine 
in Albany, but soon afterward returned to Fultonville as clerk in the 
drug store of his brother, Delancey. When the firm of Starin & Free- 
man was formed he took charge of the drug department, which he soon 
afterward (1847) purchased, and henceforth conducted the business in 
his own name. He was made postmaster, and this, with a successful 
drug trade, may for a time have satisfied his ambition. 

New York, however, soon attracted him by its vast facilities, and in 
1856, being then thirty-one, he conveyed his business to the metropo- 
lis, but still retained his original residence. On establishing himself in 
New York his industry and energy reached what was then considered 
a very satisfactory success, and he was invited to a partnership in a first 
class house, which he declined. A new field was even then opening 
before him, and one that was more congenial to an administrative mind. 
This was the freighting business. He had frequently been of service 
to railway managers to a degree which indicated his peculiar abilities, 
and this led to a closer connection. He had won the confidence of the 
chief freighters of the metropolis, and on the opening of the rebellion 
he was found to be especially adapted to an important duty. This was 
the transportation of ordnance, military stores and commissary supplies 
throughout the cities of Brooklyn and New York. It was accomplished 
by him at a reduction of from one-third to one- half former cost, and 
with a rapidity and precision which knew no failure. 

When the war closed John H. Starin's reputation as a freight opera- 
tor led to a contract with one of the most important railroads, which 
placed its business in his hands. His facilities for loading and unload- 
ing their trains were such that the work was done at a reduction on pre- 
vious cost, and hence the experiment proved mutually satisfactory. 
The example of the New Jersey Central was followed by other leading 
railroads until the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western and the Central- 
Hudson sought each a similar arrangement, and as a result the heaviest 
part of the freight was afterward removed by the one controlling in- 
tellect. 

Mr. Starin's energy was soon turned to harbor navigation and this 
led to the purchase of the steamer Blackbird. Thus was begun a marine- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 35? 

interest which subsequently became the most extensive in the waters oi 
the metropolis and gave to him his well-known title. A grand fleet 
soon plied in the waters of the harbor and sound, bearing his especial 
signal, numbering in the various kinds of craft at one time 176 boats. 
A ship yard was established for construction and repair and the entire 
business was made successful beyond conception. Two lines of Staten 
Island Ferry and a steamboat line to New Haven were afterwards added 
to the list of Commodore Starin's enterprises. The creation of Glen 
Island out of a long neglected spot is also a remarkable proof of Com- 
modore Starin's genius and taste. More than a half million visitors 
annually enjoy the benefit of this lovely resort during the season, and 
thus health and innocent pleasure are brought within the reach of the 
masses of the metropolis. 

Commodore Starin has been often brought before the public as a lead- 
ing agriculturist and hence it may be said that his home estate at Ful- 
tonville embraces six hundred acres of land, and are all under improve- 
ment. Its natural beauty, including a grand prospect of the valley, has 
been admirably assisted by art. Here Mr. Starin has given much at- 
tention to the rearing of blooded horses and cattle and to other features 
of advanced farming. A stately mansion crowns the highland, which 
is furnished with every modern improvement, and the grounds have 
been beautified until it is one of the most picturesque and attractive 
country homes in the state. Commodore Starin's floral taste has led 
to the erection of spacious conservatories, where may be seen the rarest 
exotics, including palms and agaves, as well as all varieties of flowers 
in perfect culture, and the grounds are enriched by the finest array of 
statuary (in marble and also in bronze) to be found in any private 
grounds in the country. Not the least in this number is a statue of the 
Commodore executed in bronze and presented by a number of New 
York business men as a token of regard. It is a fine likeness, and the 
unveiling of the statue was attended by a large assemblage of citizens. 
The addresses made on the occasion were both eloquent and appropri- 
ate, and the Commodore, being then in Europe, telegraphed a fitting 
response to this beautiful tribute. 

A powerful motive in all of Commodore Starin's undertakings ha^ 
been the pleasure he derived from giving employment to deserving- 



354 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

men, many of whom he has assisted to permanent success. Commo- 
dore Starin was elected to the United States congress by the 20th dis- 
trict in 1876 and also in 1878, and made for himself a record in Wash- 
ington as a man of deeds rather thar^ words. 

Mr. Starin married Miss Laura Mears Poole, daughter of John Hud- 
son Poole, a man of sterling character, a civil engineer by profession, 
and an associate of Dewitt Clinton. Mrs. Starin has been more than 
equal to all the emergencies of her husband's successful life and has 
proved herself a worthy helpmate and companion. Three sons and 
two daughters were born to them. 



VAN HORNE, JOEL C. was born on the i6th of June, 1828, in 
the town of Glen, Montgomery county, N. Y. He is descended 
from one of the pioneers of that section, where his grandfather settled 
in the early years of that town. His father was Jacob Van Home and 
his mother Sarah Faulkner, also of Glen. The family through the 
three generations have been farmers and among the most successful 
ones of the county. The children of Jacob Van Home were six, four 
of whom were sons. 

The subject of this notice was forced to depend upon the district 
school of his native town for his education ; but what he there obtained 
he made good use of and has added to it during his life a fund of gen- 
eral informatiDn, particularly upon agricultural subjects. He began 
working out for neighboring farmers when only eleven years of age, his 
wages being only four dollars per month and his board ; but he perse- 
\ered in spite of his adverse circumstances, and by his sterling char- 
acteristics, his industry and reasonable economy, was able to acquire a 
competency and eventually to retire from a iong period of active labor. 
For many years he was one of the largest shippers and dealers in hay 
in the country, in which business he was particularly successful. 

In the year 1888 Mr. Van Home settled in Amsterdam, but he still 
retains his interest in agriculture, owning two fine farms in his native 
town. 

He was formerly a director in a bank at Johnstown and also at Ful- 
tonville. He was always averse to holding public office, declining to 
accept the honors proffered him by his fellow-citizens. In all his busi- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 355- 

ness relations with his fehow-men he is an example of honesty, always 
reliable and trustworthy, seldom if ever failing to keep his word, no 
matter how adverse the circumstances under which he may be placed. 
He is in every respect a self-made man, and enjoys the respect and 
confidence of the community in which he lives. 

Mr. Van Home was first married February 4, 1869, to Alice A., 
youngest daughter of Abram V. Putman, of Glen. She died on the 
22d of February, 1887, survived by only one child, Libbie V., who, on 
the 24th of June, 1891, was united in marriage to Mr. J. Enders Van 
Derveer, of Glen, N. Y. Mr. Van Home's present wife, Kate Morford, 
was a teacher in California for several years previous to their marriage, 
which occurred June 11, 1888. Her parents, John N. and Margaret 
(Ingersoll) Morford, are residents of his native town. 

Mr. Van Home is temperate in all things, enjoys the society and 
comforts of his home to all others, but nevertheless he has traveled 
quite extensively, both in his native and foreign countries. 



I\A CFARLAN, JOHN. — Among the many sturdy Scotch immi- 
/ \ grants who settled early in the present century was Donald Mc- 
Farlan, of the parish of Collander, Perthshire, Scotland, where he was 
born September 22, 1773. He came to Montgomery county in 1801 
and settled in Perth. His wife was Catherine McFarlan (of another 
family of that name) to whom he was married in 18 19. ^heir children 
were Alexander and Catherine (twins), John, the subject of this notice, 
Jeanette, Margaret and Isabel. Donald McFarlan died when his son 
John was quite young and the boy went to live with an uncle on a 
farm, where he attended the district school when he could be spared 
from labor. His first occupation for himself was as a clerk in a store 
in Broadalbin, whence he went to West Galway as partner in a country 
store from May, 1855, ^'^ May, 1857. He next came to Amsterdam 
and entered the store of Hawley & Cady where he remained for a time 
and left it to engage in the manufacture of knit goods in company 
with William Stewart and John C. Miller at Forestville. In 1861 
he formed a partnership in the knit goods manufacture with Abram 
Marcellus, and for twenty- three years, until 1884, the two men labored 



356 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

together in harmony and built up one of the largest manufacturing in- 
dustries of the place. In 1SS4 Mr. Marcellus retired and Mr. McFarlan 
continued the business until his death. Soon after the retirement of 
Mr. Marcellus, a nephew of Mr. McFarlan, John H. Giles, was taken into 
the firm. 

In his long business career in Amsterdam Mr. McFarlan developed 
and exhibited those marked traits of character which gave him his place 
among the foremost citizens of the place. Possessed of the typical quali- 
ties of his race, he was a most industrious and persevering worker, while 
his business sagacity was keen and comprehensive. He was a man of 
positive nature, decided in his opinions and courageous and unhesitating 
in expressing them. Frank to the point of bluntness, fully endowed with 
sound common sense, he was never blinded by sophistry or superficiality, 
and his sturdy honesty was proverbial. He showed strong attachment 
for his friends and never betrayed their confidence. To his employees 
he was ever considerate, but he could not be driven from his theories as 
to what was just and right between himself and those in his service. In 
the knit goods strike of 18S6, no manufacturer e.xhibited more firmness in 
refusing to grant the unjust demands of the Knights of Labor. In his 
home he was a most kind and considerate husband and devoted father. 
He will long be remembered as one of the men of force, character and 
enterprise who have done so much to make Amsterdam what it now is. 
He was for many years a director of the Farmer's National Bank and 
held the office of vice-president at the time of his death. He was a 
charter member of the Board of Trade, a trustee of the Green Hill Cem- 
etery Association, and a director of the Chuctenunda Gaslight Com- 
pany. In politics he was an uncompromising Republican, but never 
sought political office. He was a consistent .Christian and long a trus- 
tee of his church. In various ways he filled a large place in the public 
and private life of his adopted city. 

Mr. McFarlan was married on the 6th of November, 1867, to Sophia 
Aulls Capell, of Dansville, N. Y., by Rev. M. S. Goodale. His death 
occurred December 4, 1S91, at tlie Glen Sanitarium, Watkins, N. Y.- 
His widow survives as a resident of Amsterdam. A daughter. Miss 
Katlierine McFarlan, and two sons, George and John, also survive 
Miss Isabel McFarlan of Broadalbin, and Mrs. Catherine Giles, of Rock 
port, Mass., are sisters of Mr. McFarlan. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 357 

ROBB, WILLIAM H., was born in the town of Florida, Montgom 
ery county, July i, 1843. He is a son of James M. Robb, also a 
native of Florida, and by occupation a farmer. Their immediate an- 
cestor was George Robb, a native of Scotland, whence he came to Mont- 
gomery county in the early years of its settlement. James M. Robb's 
wife, and the mother of William H., was Cathaline Crawford, of Prince- 
ton, Schenectady county, N. Y. Their family consisted of ten children, 
of whom the subject of this sketch is the youngest. Reared during his 
early life on his father's farm, the lad attended the district school in 
alternation with his labor at home, and subsequently was in attendance 
at the academy in Fergusonville, Delaware county, N. Y., the seminary 
in Middletown, Saratoga county, and the Saratoga High School. Re- 
turning to Amsterdam he closed his studies in school in the Amsterdam 
Academy in 1S62. 

The young man had ere this formed the determination to study for 
the medical profession, but preparatory to beginning he taught school 
one winter on what was known as " Yankee Hill," near Amsterdam, 
and finished a term for A. W. Cox in the stone school-house in Am- 
sterdam. 

On the 4th of April, 1863, when he was twenty years old, Mr. Robb 
began his medical studies with Dr. Jacob G. Snell, of Amsterdam. In 
December, 1865, he graduated from the Albany Medical College, and 
on the 1st of January, 1866, commenced his professional life by forming 
a partnership with his preceptor. Dr. Snell. They continued together 
in harmony and the enjoyment of a large and increasing practice until 
1873, since which date Dr. Robb has practiced alone, with the exception 
of three years (1880-83), when he was associated with Dr. Charles 
Stover. 

Such is a brief record of the career of one of the successful physicians 
of Montgomery county. The personal traits and characteristics and the 
acquired attainments which have contributed to give Dr. Robb his 
present professional standing are chiefly a naturally studious inclina- 
tion, with physical powers to endure arduous study ; persistence in the 
early formed determination to succeed in life; exceptional industry and 
that personal attribute called by such names as magnetism, sympathy, 
and the tenderness of heart that is so potent in the sick room. These 



358 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

attributes have made him welcome in a great number of homes extend- 
ing throughout and beyond the county, and brought him at a compar- 
atively early age a degree of success that is most enviable. He has 
been a member of the County Medical Society since 1866, and has held 
the offices of president and vice-president of the society ; is a member 
of the New York State Medical Association and one of its founders ; a 
member of the American Medical Association. 

In the other relations of life Dr. Robb is no less happily situated. He 
is public spirited, with a strong faith in the future of his adopted home, 
and enters energetically into any project that promises to benefit Am- 
sterdam. As evidence of this, it may be mentioned that he was the 
original advocate of measures to supply the city with pure water, and 
labored assiduously for years to that end. He also took an active and 
intelligent part in the movement that resulted in providing a system of 
sewerage, in its benefits second only to the water supply. It has been 
mainly through the efforts of Dr. Robb that the Public Library has 
been successfully organized, an undertaking, the benefits from which 
will reflect credit upon him in the future. His fellow citizens have 
called him to the office of health officer, and he was a member of the 
school board for a number of years. 

Dr. Robb was married on the 14th of November, 1872, to Miss Mar- 
garet J. Moody. They have four children, two sons and two daughters. 



EIGHMY, JOHI>{ \V., was born in Milton, Saratoga county, on 
the 5th day of August, 1845. He is the son of Alfred Eighmy, 
who was a contractor and builder, and was born in the farm house in 
the town above named. Alfred Eighmy married Louisa Spencer, also 
a native of Milton. The Eighmy family are of German descent. There 
were four children of Alfred and Louisa Eighmy ; the eldest a daugh- 
ter who is deceased ; twin sons, living, and the subject of this sketch. 
John W.. Eighmy's early life was passed at home, working on the 
farm in summer and attending the district school winters. ' At sixteen 
years of age he was thrown upon his own resources and without other 
means of bettering his circumstances than a strong will and unflinching 
determination. He engaged to work on a farm at $5 per month, and 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 359 

during a few succeeding years divided his time between attending school 
and worl<ing to pay his expenses. He early determined to become a 
lawyer, and to that end threw his whole energies into the work of ob- 
taining an education and to the study of his profession. At the age of 
nineteen years he entered the office of Judge Batcheller, at Saratoga 
Springs, where he finished his studies and when twenty-one years old 
was admitted to the bar. F"or several years he successfully practiced 
at Saratoga, during which period several important cases in the higher 
courts were entrusted to his care. About the year 1875 he came to 
Amsterdam, where he soon occupied an honorable position and by close 
attention to his business and integrity in all transactions with his fellows, 
has risen still further in public esteem. For the past ten years his time 
has almost wholly been given to pension business, and no other man in 
Northern New York has had so large a volume of this work entrusted 
to him, or been so successful in prosecuting claims of all kinds. It has 
been said that he never undertakes a poor claim, and never abandons a 
good one. He is a man of excellent judgment, possesses a clear and 
logical mind, and is genial, courteous and popular. In 1887 he received 
the Democratic nomination for justice of the civil court of Amsterdam. 
His opponent was considered one of the strongest that the Republicans 
could nominate, and while the Democratic ticket was defeated, Judge 
Eighmy was honored with election. For four years he faithfully, hon- 
orably and efficiently discharged the duties of the office, giving the best 
of satisfaction to the public at large. 

Mr. Eighmy was married October 3, 1877, to Adelaide A. Clarke, 
daughter of Dr. Alfred Clarke, of Syracuse, N. Y. 



BUCKBEE, ISRAEL I., was born on the 12th of February, 1821, 
in Dutchess county, N. Y. He is the son of Gilbert I. and Mary 
Buckbee, and is the representative of the fourth generation to bear 
the name, Israel Buckbee, in this county. His grandfather, Jere- 
miah Buckbee, was one of seven sons, five of whom fought bravely 
in the revolutionary war. He was of English origin and a promi- 
nent farmer in Dutchess county, where he owned a valuable tract of 
land ; he also owned a tract of land in Warren county, mostly uncleared. 



360 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and there the doctor's parents went as pioneers in 1822, to share in the 
improvement and development of that locality. Gilbert I. Buckbee, 
father of the subject of this sketch, was born in 1794 and died in Fonda 
in 1878, at the age of eighty-four years. Three years later his wife died 
in the same place, aged eighty-five. On the home farm in Warren 
county, in what was almost a wilderness. Dr. Buckbee's boyhood 
was passed, until his father purchased another farm nearer to the 
village of Glens Falls. The family and their ancestors were Qua- 
kers. At the age of seventeen years the young man began the 
study of medicine with Drs. Clark & Peck, of Glens Falls, and later 
he studied with Dr. Littlefield, his uncle. This was followed by one 
year's course in the Vermont Medical College, and two more in 
the Albany Medical College, from which he graduated in 1841. 
He spent one year with Dr. Snow, of Root, Montgomery county, 
and afterwards located in Fonda, where he has since resided and 
practiced his profession. He is a member of the Montgomery 
County Medical society, and has been a member of the New York 
State Medical Society since 1866. On the loth of September, 1 890, 
Dr. Buckbee completed a period of practice of fifty years' duration, 
and the occasion was honored by a meeting of his professional brethren 
in the county society, and others, which was held at his residence in 
Fonda. After a repast brief congratulatory addresses were made by 
Dr. Charles Stover, then president of the society ; Dr. William H. Robb 
of Amsterdam, and Dr. Van Derveer of Albany, to which Dr. Buckbee 
made a fitting and feeling response. Letters were also read from sev- 
eral who could not be present. It cannot be out of place here to quote 
briefly from the remarks of Dr. Stover, addressed directly to the host, in 
which he said : " If the mind is allowed to run backward fifty years and 
recall the scanty equipment that the period allowed the medical 
student to be provided with when he launched into practice; if one 
will recall the lack of clinical instruction, the paucity of instruments 
of precision, the labyrinthine maze of rooted superstitions and vener- 
ated errors that preceded the application of the inductive method to 
medicine, and then reflect that our associate whom we are here to honor 
to-night has kept even pace with the march of medical progress, that 
the mellow experience of his life has been so blended with latter day 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 361 

science that we are all content to sit at his feet and be taught, we must 
award to him proven qualities of industry and courage. I hope we may 
hear from his own lips to what conditions and to what circumstances 
may be attributed his signal success. For it is success for fifty years to 
have gone in and out amid the families of a community, and to have 
sympathized with them in their sorrow and rejoiced with them in their 
joy, to have given comfort to the afflicted, to have buoyed them up with 
hope when hope seemed dead, to have protected family honor, and been 
able to shield the innocent and the weak while presenting no barrier to 
offended justice. It is success for fifty years to have done one's duty as 
an honest citizen at the caucus and the polls, while touching the com- 
munity at so many points as only the physician may ; it is success to 
have merited and held the esteem of one's professional associates, to 
have been in sympathy with the enthusiastic aspirations of youth, to 
have borne the friction of laudable strife without sacrifice of one's man- 
liness." 

Others of the speakers echoed similar sentiments to the foregoing and 
all testified to the eminent professional and manly qualities of Dr. 
Buckbee. 

Dr. Buckbee was married on the 14th of February, 1844, to Anna C, 
daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Bunn, of Amsterdam. They have 
one child, Luella B., wife of Ferguson Jansen, one of the solid business 
men of Fonda, and the couple has two sons, Frederick Israel and Ro- 
meyn Buckbee. Frederick has chosen the medical profession and is 
now in Yale University. Romeyn is also pursuing useful education. 

Dr. Buckbee, in addition to his professional labor.s, has taken much 
interest in agriculture and owns a good farm near Fonda, and his resi- 
dence is one of the finest in the village — none too good, however, for 
one who has so truly won the title of " the beloved physician," 



VAN BUREN, CORNELIUS.— The ancestors of the subject of 
this sketch were Holland Dutch, and his grandfather, whose name 
was also Cornelius, left the valley of the Hudson river and settled at a 
very early day with the other pioneers of the town of Glen, Montgom- 
ery county, N. Y. There he cleared and improved a farm, reared hi? 
family, and lived a life ot respectability and met with such success as fell 



362 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

to the hardy settlers of that locality. Among his children was Peter P. 
Van Buren, who was born in the town of Glen on the 24th of January, 
1814, and died there on the 17th of May, 185 i. His wife was Rachel 
Enders. Peter P. Van Buren was also a farmer and passed his life in 
his native town, where he gained the respect and confidence due to the 
man of integrity and industry. He had children as follows: Cornelius, 
the eldest; Emily, born April 15, 1842, married Boyd R. Hudson, of 
Glen ; Helen, born September 10, 1844, married Da\id Getman, a well- 
known citizen of Mayfield, Fulton county; Enders, born December 10, 
1847, died July, i88i ; Martin, born June 17, 1850, now living in Am- 
sterdam. Rachel Van Buren, the mother of these children, was a 
woman of excellent qualities, and died on the i6thof July, 1873. 

Cornelius Van Buren was born in Glen January 25, 1840, and his 
boyhood until he was fourteen years old was passed wholly on his fath- 
er's farm, interspersed with some attendance at the district school. 
While he never had a taste for the arduous toil of the farmer and early 
formed a determination that he would devote his life to mercantile busi- 
ness of some kind, he still learned lessons of industry and energ\- which 
have served him well since. He was given unusual!}- good opportunity 
for that period to secure an education, following his attendance at the 
district school with two years at the Johnstown academy, one year at 
the Amsterdam academy, and one year at the excellent school at Clav- 
erack, N. Y. Thus well equipped and with his habits well formed he 
began in the course he had laid out for himself bj' the not very lofty 
position of clerk in a grocery at the canal station of Auriesville ; but 
he was selling goods and that for the time satisfied his ambition, and 
his work, such as it was, he performed faithfully. He remained there 
from 1858 to i860, when he moved a step higher by going to Fulton- 
ville, where he engaged as clerk for the firm of Voorhees, Van Antwerp 
& Co., who were the proprietors of the Fultonville and New York 
transportation line. That was before the railroad had been able to make 
the inroads that have been made in later years into the business of the 
canal, and this transportation line, like many others, carried on a large 
trade and their shipments were extensive. It was an excellent business 
school, for the }-oung man bought as well as sold all kinds of produce, 
transactions sometimes being large, besides gaining the business experi- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 3GS 

ence of great value in connection with the diversified interests of the 
firm. He capably filled the position three years, when the firm placed 
sufficient confidence in him to send him to New York city to act as their 
agent at that end of the line. In the metropolis, where in the course 
of business he met men of large views and at the head of great inter- 
ests, he gained still further insight into the methods and principles of 
successful men. He remained in New York three years, at the end of 
which period he made his final change by coming to Amsterdam in 
1866, where he made his permanent home and has successfully carried 
on a large business for twenty- five years. He associated with himself 
John C. Putman in the purchase and sale of grain, flour and feed and 
D. & H. coal. The partnership continued until 1881, since which time 
Mr. Van Buren has carried on the business alone and with gratifying 
success. Applying the methods with which he had become conversant 
through his former long and varied experience, ?nd governing his busi- 
ness conduct by the underlying principles of integrity, energy, indus- 
try and push, he long ago took a position among the foremost. The 
yards and property necessary for his business are situated on the south 
side of the river in what was formerly Port Jackson, and this property 
he has acquired by purchase ; his residence is also on that side of the 
river. 

Mr. Van Buren has received ample evidence of the confidence of his 
fellow citizens since his settlement in Amsterdam. He was made a trus- 
tee of Port Jackson not long after his arrival and held the office several 
terms, as he also did that of trustee of school district No. 13. A Re- 
publican in politics, he has brought to the support of that party an in- 
telligent and hearty interest, wholly on account of the principles which 
it advocates and not as an avenue to private advancement. He was 
elected to the office of supervisor of the town and held it three. years, 
1878-80. This was followed by his nomination and election to the 
State Assembly, 1881-1882, when he had the honor of serving his con- 
stituents in the memorable long session, lasting into July, when Roscoe 
Conkling's interests were uppermost. In 1887 he was elected one of 
the Board of Aldermen of the city of Amsterdam, where his public 
spirit and sound judgment on public matters were fully appreciated. He 
aided in organizing the Merchants' National bank and was its vice- 



364 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERT COUXTT. 

president until its affairs were wound up. Upon the organization of the 
City National bank in 1890 he was made one of the board of directors 
and now holds that position. He is one of the board of sewer commis- 
sioners of the city, and in no one of these stations, political, financial 
or municipal, has he faltered in what he believed to be his duty or mis- 
taken the path leading to the best results. He has been trustee of Am- 
sterdam City hospital, and is now its president. 

Mr. Van Buren was married January 24, 1867, in Boston, to Miss 
Marion B. Gove, daughter of George G. Gove, of that city. Their 
children are as follows : George G., born June 16, 186S, married Jessie 
Macqueen, of Schenectady, and has one child ; Florence, born January 
18, 1870, died May 28, 1876; Grace, born January 6, 1879, living with 
her parents: Harral, born February 20, 1885, died August 13, 1SS5. 



KELLOGG, JOHN. — This name is a familiar one in the history of 
Montgomery county. Supplina Kellogg was one of the early 
settlers of West Galway, and there in 1824 founded the manufacture of 
linseed oil in a small way, and carried it on until 1848. He came to 
this vicinity from Massachusetts and lived a life of usefulness and 
respectability. His wife was Susan Aldrich, of Rhode Island. They 
were parents of six children, all of whom are deceased excepting the 
subject of this sketch. John Kellogg's opportunities for securing an 
education were confined to the district school, but his mental qualities 
are of an absorbent character and through extensive reading, partic- 
ularly upon subjects relating to the government and growth of his 
native country and its institutions, and close association with his fellow 
men, he long ago became possessed of a large store of general informa- 
tion which has served him well in the place of ampler school education. 
Upon the death of his father in 184S, himself and his brother, Lauren 
Kellogg, succeeded to the business of oil manufacture, then an insig- 
nificant industry beside its present proportions. The brothers con- 
ducted the business together with success until the death of Lauren 
Kellogg in 1S53, when James A. Miller was admitted to the firm. In 
1872, George Kellogg, son of John, was admitted, and in 1879, Lauren 
Kellogg, another son, was admitted to the partnership. During the 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 365 

period covered by these changes the business has been increased to an 
extent that seems almost marvelous. From a product of only a very 
few barrels per day, it has risen to nearly 50,000 barrels a year, and is 
shipped to all parts of the United States. About 15,000 tons of oil 
cake are also produced, with an annual consumption of more than 
750,000 bushels of flax seed. A flax mill is also operated by the firm 
for the production of tow, and in 1879, in order to secure better ship- 
ping facilities, they built a private railroad of about one and one-half 
miles in length, running from their works to the New York Central. 
Taken as a whole it is one of the most important manufacturing indus- 
tries in the state of New York. 

Leaving the business industry of which Mr. Kellogg is the head, his 
personality deserves consideration, for he occupies a position of ac- 
knowledged eminence in the community where he lives, not only as a 
factor in its material growth, but intellectually, socially and financially. 
He is thoroughly informed upon all public topics and his counsel is 
much sought and deferred to by municipal officers and those still higher 
in authority. Long ago, in 1863, he was elected to the state assembly 
and served his constituents and the state with faithfulness and efficiency. 
An astute observer of men and a thinker upon subjects of current 
interest, there are few persons ordinarily met with who are more famil- 
iar with contemporaneous history. The policy and actions of states- 
men, the conditions of industry, trends of enterprise in all directions, as 
well as the operations of public society in science, art and religion, arc 
all subjects of thought and reading to him, and his convictions thus 
formed he possesses the ability to express in clear and terse English, 
and the firmness to uphold them to the utmost on all proper occasions. 
He is still liberal in his tendencies and believes that every man should 
have the liberty he demands for himself He is a strong and earnest 
Republican in politics, unswerving and determined in his political faith 
and action, but he does not quarrel with those who are less radical than 
himself; and so in his religious views, while he is extremely liberal 
and a broad and firm believer in the doctrine of evolution, he never 
seeks to force upon others his own beliefs, and lives a life that 
in all of its activities, honors his profession and himself Mr. Kel- 
logg has been for a number of years a member of the state committee. 



36G HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and has always given intelligent and effective work to the welfare of 
the political party to which he belongs. He was chosen president of 
the Farmers' National Bank in 1890, after serving long as a director, 
and the institution profits by his prudent and wise direction. He is 
one of the water commissioners of the city, a trustee of the academy, 
vice-president of the cemetery association, a director in the board of 
trade, etc. In all these capacities he receives the constant assurance 
of his fellow citizens that his influence and his work are worthy of their 
commendation. 

Mr. Kellogg was married on September 11, 1850, to Olive Davis, 
daughter of Benjamin Davis, of Galway, Saratoga county, N. Y. They 
have had four children: The eldest daughter was the wife of Howland 
Fish, son of Frothingham Fish, of Fulton county ; she is deceased ; 
George and Lauren Kellogg, both associated with their father in busi- 
ness ; and a daughter, who is living with her parents. 



BRONSON, JAMES H., was born in Amsterdam, N. Y., December 
22, 1826. His father was George J. Brownson (the "w " having 
been since dropped by the members of the family), a native of Win- 
chester, Conn., who came to Amsterdam with his parents when only 
two years old. They settled on a farm about two miles west of Am- 
sterdam. There, in later years, he carried on farming to some extent, 
and also laid the foundation of an industry which was destined to become 
one of great importance. He was the first manufacturer of brooms in 
the state of New York, the first made in the country having been pro- 
duced on the Connecticut river. His factory was established near Am- 
sterdam, and as the business rapidly increased the surrounding farmers 
began, and subsequently profitably prosecuted, the raising of broom- 
corn to supply the new demand. In later years this agricultural prod- 
uct became a source of considerable profit in this locality. The elder 
Mr. Brownson continued in the business until 1856 and died in 1867, in 
the enjoyment of both material success in life and the more valued re- 
spect and confidence of all who knew him. His wife was Esther Rose- 
boom, of Amsterdam, who is also deceased. Their family consisted of 
three daughters and five sons, three of the latter only now living. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 367 

When James H. Bronson reached a proper age he attended the dis- 
trict school at Amsterdam, the education thus obtained being supple- 
mented by a term in the Amsterdam Academy and a course at Union 
College, from which he graduated in 1848. Leaving college, he taught 
one year in a Brooklyn grammar school and then began his business 
career as proprietor of a hardware store in Whitehall, N. Y., where he 
remained four and a half years, meeting with moderate success. In 
1856 he returned to Amsterdam to take possession of the broom busi- 
ness of his father. The industry had by that time reached considerable 
importance, about forty hands being employed and the product finding 
a ready market over a wide extent of territory. From that time until 
1 89 1 Mr. Bronson devoted his entire energies, as far as business rela- 
tions were concerned, to the further development and perfection of the 
industry founded by his father. Endowed with excellent judgment and 
foresight, which were coupled with habits of industry, sobriety and 
perseverance, with executive ability of a high order, it was only a nat- 
ural result of his efforts that the business should grow as it did. As 
improved methods of manufacture were discovered or invented, many 
of which were at least partially due to the personal genius of Mr. Bron- 
son, they were adopted, while the reputation and market for the prod- 
uct were extended proportionately, so that when he laid down his 
active work in that connection the factory employed about 175 hands. 
The business was sold to the Chicago Broom Company in 1891. 

In politics Mr. Bronson was originally a Free-soiler and in 1848 cast 
his vote for Martin Van Buren for the presidency. But his father had 
been one of the early Abolitionists and was active as an agent for the 
" Underground " railroad, as well as an ardent temperance reformer. 
In this atmosphere the young man was trained and when the Republi- 
can party was formed he joined its ranks. Until 1872 he gave his in- 
fluence to that political organization, but in that year, becoming con- 
vinced that as long as the two great political parties then occupying the 
field continued in power, the cause of temperance could not materially 
advance, he changed his allegiance to the Prohibition party and since 
that time he has been one of the advanced, active and influential work- 
ers in that field. Endowed with education, an easy and forcible 
speaker and a graceful writer, Mr. Bronson has found ample opportunity 



36S HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

to make use of these qualifications for the good of the cause which he 
has at heart. On numerous occasions he has addressed and read papers 
before ministerial and other associations on the subject ; his last paper 
under the title of " The Christian Voter and the Liquor Trafiic," he read 
before the ministerial association at Saratoga in the summer of 1892. 
He hopes to live to see the ultimate triumph of temperance throughout 
the land. He has held the ofiice of president of the New York State 
Temperance societj-. In Amsterdam he has evinced public spirit and 
aided as far as possible the cause of religion and education ; has been a 
member of the Presbj-terian church for fifty years and elder for a num- 
ber of years ; has been trustee of the academy and president of school 
district No. 1 1 ; a stockholder in the street railway company and in 
many other ways has received evidence of the confidence of his fellow- 
citizens. 

Mr. Bronson was married first in 1S55 to Evelyn E. Utter, of \Miite- 
hall ; she died April 20. 1879. He married second in November. 1882, 
Abbie S. Hervej', of Andover, Mass. They have no children. 



A /ESTBROOK, HON. ZERAH S., of the cit>- of Amsterdam, was 
W born April 7, 1S45, ^t Montague. Sussex count}-. New Jersey. 
His parents were Sever\"ne L. Westbrook, an enterprising and resj>ected 
farmer of that town, and Susan E. (Armstrong) Westbrook, daughter 
of James B. Armstrong, an influential farmer of the same town ; the 
former of HoIIandish, and the latter of Irish descent. There were six 
children — four sons and two daughters, of which Zerah was next to the 
youngest. His father died on March 20, 1849. ^"hen Zerah was only 
four years old. His mother died on November 22, 1SS9. in the 77th 
year of her age. and they were both buried in the cemetery- of the Dutch 
Reformed church at Montague, of which church his mother was a devout 
member. His father left a small estate, consisting chiefly of a farm. 

Young Wdstbrook worked out by the month for farmers in the vicin- 
ity of his old home to earn his living until he was seventeen years old, 
with the exception of the time spent inschooL He attended the district 
schools of his native town from time to time during his early years, and 
also a select school a few months at Milford, Pa. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 369- 

111 July, 1862, at the age of seventeen years, while at work for Hon. 
Isaac Bonnell on his farm in Montague, he enlisted with a large number 
of young men, friends and acquaintances of his youth, as a private in 
Co. I, Fifteenth N. J. Vols, to serve in the Union Army. Though 
fully armed and equipped as a member of his company, he was refused 
muster in the United States service by the federal mustering officer, 
because he was under the age limit of eighteen years. Nevertheless he 
went to the front with his company upon the assurances of his captain 
that he would in due time be mustered in the United States service. 
Being of a plucky and partiotic disposition, he cheerfully continued in 
the ranks of his company and went to the front with his regiment, being 
assigned to General Phil. Kearney's old famous New Jersey Brigade^ 
the first brigade, first division, of the Sixth Corps in the Army of the 
Potomac. He served with his company during the fall and winter of 
1862—3, participating in the battle of Fredericksburg and BurnsideV 
famous mud march, sharing and enduring all the trials and hardships of 
the Army of the Potomac during that trying period of the war, carrying 
a musket and taking his part as a common soldier. He was never, how- 
ever, able to obtain muster into the United States service, his case having 
been neglected by the captain of his company, who resigned his com- 
mission and left the service a few months after the muster of the company. 
Being unable to obtain muster in the United States service, and becom- 
ing sick and incapacitated by disease and exposure, in the spring of 1 863 
at White Oak Church, Va., his colonel gave him an honorable discharge 
and sent him home. He then returned to his home without ever hav- 
ing received any pay or bounty from the United States, except one 
month's pay which was paid in advance on enlistment. After his re- 
turn home and recruiting his health he worked on a farm for one summer 
in Montague. Having determined to continue his studies and prepare 
for a profession he entered the academy at Deckertown, N. J., in thi 
fall of 1863, and after pursuing a course of studies there for nearly twc' 
years he went to Suffield, Ct., and entered the Literary Institute at thai 
place, where he continued his studies and graduated in 1866. Having 
no means to take a college course he selected the law for his profession. 
and went to Albany, N. Y., and entered the Albany Law School, where 
he graduated with the degree of LL. B., in May. 1S67, and was admitted 
to the bar at a General Term of the Supreme Court held at Albany. 



370 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Necessity compelled him to earn his living at once, and he immediate- 
ly began the practice of his profession at Northampton, Fulton county, 
where he continued, teaching the public school there for one summer in 
connection with his law practice, until April, 1871, when he removed to 
the village, now the city of Amsterdam, and took up his residence there 
and opened an office for legal practice, where he has since resided and 
practiced his profession. While residing at Northampton he was married 
ill February, 1870, to Matilda F., daughter of Fay Smith, deceased, for- 
merly a well-known merchant of that place. His wife is still living. 

Three children have been born to them, Edith, born August 11, 1871, 
Charles S., born January 27, (875, and Bessie Evelyn, born February 
13, 1880. Charles S. died November 21, 187S, the others are still 
living. 

Soon after he was old enough to vote, young Westbrook espoused 
the cause of Democracy, and he has always been an earnest, active and 
consistent Democrat, advocating and supporting the cause of his party 
and its candidates, and has always been recognized as a trusted leader 
of his party in his county. 

In 1873 he was elected president of Amsterdam village over E. D. 
Bronson, a popular candidate of the Republican party, and in 1874 he 
was re-elected without opposition. In 1877 he was the candidate of 
the Democrats for county judge of Montgomery county, and was elected 
over the Hon. S. Pulver Heath, the incumbent of the office, by 1,319 
majority. He was re-elected in 1883 over Charles P. Winegar by the 
unprecedented majority of 2,221. 

After serving as county judge and exofficio surrogate faithfully and 
to the entire satisfaction of the people of the county for ten years, he 
resigned the office to accept the position of deputy comptroller of the 
State, tendered to him by Hon. Edward Wemple, the comptroller elect. 
He resigned the office of county judge and assumed the duties of deputy 
comptroller on January i, 1888, which important and laborious position 
he faithfully filled to the credit of himself and the great financial depart- 
ment of the State until January ist, 1892, when he resumed his legal 
practice at Amsterdam, to which he has since given his entire attention, 
conducting a large business in general practice in the courts. The 
official comptroller's reports for the \ears 1888-1892, prepared by him. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 371 

exhibit liis industry and familiarity with the state administration and 
its financial affairs. 

In 1888 while serving as deputy comptroller, against his wishes but 
in the interest of his party, he accepted the Democratic nomination for 
representative in congress in the twentieth or Saratoga district, his 
opponent being Hon. John Sanford of Amsterdam. The district being 
strongly Republican there was no chance for his election, and he was 
defeated with his party, though he received the largest vote ever given 
for a Democrat in the district and ran nearly one thousand ahead of his 
party ticket. 

Judge Westbrook has occupied a leading position at the bar of his 
section of the state for a number of years, and is recognized everywhere 
as a sound and successful lawyer and an excellent «/.f//'r///i'practitic5ner 
and advocate. He has a large chantage, and his services are always 
desired in important litigations in his county in which he is most always 
employed on one side. His faithfulness to his clients and devotion to 
their interests are proverbial. The published reports of the courts of 
record of this state show the great variety and amount of important and 
successful work done by him in litigations during the past eighteen 
years. 

Many important cases in which lie was successful show the importance 
and variety of his legal efforts. He was the counsel for Hon. Edward 
Wemple, Democrat, in the contest of Hon. Austin A. Yates before the 
state senate in 1886, over the election of senator from the eighteenth 
district in the election of 1885, but succeeded in convincing a Repub- 
lican senate that Senator Wemple was fairly elected by ten votes and 
entitled to the seat. 

He was also the successful counsel for Hon. John F. Dwyer, the con- 
testant for member of assembly from Montgomery county before the 
assembly of 1890, and secured the seat for Mr. Dwyer from the sitting 
member. He was also the successful counsel for Hon. George J Gove, 
member of assembly from Montgomery county for 1892, and succeeded 
in retaining him his seat in the state assembly. 

The most noted litigation that Judge Westbrook was the successful 
counsel in was what were known as the Diefendorf patent right note 
cases, which occupied the courts for five years. 



37:i HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

In those cases John F. Diefendorf, a farmer of the town of Root, 
Montgomery county, was swindled by patent right sharpers to the ex- 
tent of $12,000, in December, 1886, by promissory notes that were 
fraudulently obtained from him for a patent right for an alleged fire 
kindler. The notes were disposed of to alleged bona fide holders, who 
brought actions in the Supreme Court against Diefendorf to recover 
thereon. Judge Westbrook defended the cases, and though defeated 
in the lower courts he succeeded in the Court of Appeals in obtaining 
an interpretation of the law entirely new in its application to cases upon 
notes of that character, by which he finally defeated a recovery upon 
all the notes and saved his unfortunate client from paying any of them. 

Judge Westbrook's life presents an interesting and instructive history, 
and furnishes an example worthy of emulation by all aspiring young 
men. 

He is a representative American and a self-made man, having worked 
his way up to his present prominent position from the lowest round, of 
the ladder without financial means or other help aside from his own abil- 
ity and industry. 

He possesses administrative and judicial abilities of a high order, as 
has been attested by his successful discharge of official functions. His 
life work has been characterized throughout by indomitable industry 
and perseverance, and intelligent and faithful devotion to all interests 
entrusted to him, which have been the underlying basis for his success. 

He is a man of generous impulses and kindly nature, strong and de- 
voted in his friendships and ever ready to forgive an enemy, but never 
yielding his convictions of right, or compromising with anything that 
is mean or dishonorable. Plain, unassuming, sincere and energetic, he 
pursues with untiring energy anything that pertains to his business or 
duties, or the interests of those entrusted to him. Still in the prime of 
life and actively pursuing his business and calling, there are undoubt- 
edly before him yet many years of usefulness and successful work. 



BUNN, THOMAS, the subject of this sketch, and whose portrait 
appears in this volume, was born in the town of Amsterdam June 
16, 1803, near Manny's Corners, where his parents lived on a farm for 
some years and where they arc buried. Mr. Bunn's father's name was 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 373 

John, and he died in 1813. His mother's name was Temperance 
French, and she died the following year, 1814. They had both reached 
their fiftieth year. Most of their days had been spent upon the farm 
where their large family of children had been born — seven daughters 
and four sons. The eldest child was Abigail; then followed Ann. Ab- 
ner was the first son and he lived but twenty- two years. Then came 
John, Mary, Jane, Thankful, Nathaniel, Thomas, Sarah and Clara The 
last child, Clara, was born in 1808 and is the only one of the large fam- 
ily now living ; she is eighty-five years old (1892), lives in Troy, is very 
bright and active and is able to walk long distances. All of these chil- 
dren but Abner lived to be over seventy jears old and some of them 
reached their ninetieth year. Thomas, the fourth son, was helpful on 
the farm as a boy and after reaching manhood he entered upon a more 
active life in the village where, in 1824, he married Elizabeth Button, who 
came from Pennsylvania. After living in Amsterdam village about two 
years he moved to Tripe's Hill ( now Tribes Hill ), where he kept a 
hotel on the old turnpike road which, in those days, brought by stage 
much travel from Albany and Schenectady, going through to Utica. 
Hotels ( or, rather, as they were called in those days, public houses ) 
were well patronized by travelers, for then journeys were made with 
horses. It was while Mr. Bunn lived here that he and his family went 
to the brow of the hill and there saw the then wonderful sight of the 
first train of cars moving through the Mohawk valley. Mr. Bunn owned 
a farm at this place while he conducted the hotel. He was also post- 
master. 

His first child, Anna C, now the wife of Dr. I. I. Buckbee, of Fonda, 
was born in Amsterdam before he moved to Tribes Hill, and while at 
the latter place seven children were born : Mary E., Laura V., Harriet 
L., John T., Minerva ( who lived but two years ), Emily and Elmira, the 
latter living less than three months. In January, 1841, he removed 
with his family to Fonda, the county seat, where he served as sheriff 
for three years, having been elected in the fall of 1840. Another son 
was born while there, Orville C, who lived a little more than eighteen 
years and died in Silver City, Nevada, in 1861. 

January i, 1844, Mr. Bunn with his family removed to Amsterdam, 
where he bought the large stone house and farm of fifty acres of 



374 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Matthias J. Bovee. This stone house was built by the Rev. Halsey 
Wood, who was then pastor of the Presbyterian church. The old 
house now stands as one of the ancient landmarks, with its large and 
well-ventilated rooms, having six of the old-fashioned fire-places, most 
of which are used at the present day. The one in the dining room 
is hung with a crane with its hanging hooks, and its hearth is of stone, 
four feet wide by ten feet long, which was cut in the quarries by Mr. 
Bunn when the house was built more than seventy years ago, while he 
lived as a young man in Amsterdam and worked for a time as a stone 
cutter. This old house is now the property of Mr. Bunn's second daugh- 
ter, Miss Mary E. Bunn, who remodeled principally the exterior, leaving 
the interior nearly the same as of old, except for the addition of many 
modern conveniences. The last child of this large family, T. Romeyn 
Bunn, was born in this old house in 1844. Thomas Bunn's wife, Eliza- 
beth, died in 1864 in her sixty-first year, leaving a sweet memory ; she 
was beloved by all whose privilege it was to know her. In 1867 Mr. 
Bunn married Mrs. Catharine Belding, who died in the following year. 
Mr. Bunn had been identified with the business interests and growth 
of Amsterdam for most of his lifetime. He was an old time Democrat 
in politics, and the Albany Argus had been in his home for nearly half 
a century. He was a man whose judgment in matters of business was 
safe, and by his great foresight in buying both the Bovee farm 
and later the Arnold farm, he left to his family a growing and valuable 
property. He lived an abstemious life and his habits were most correct 
and methodical. About 1862 he began to sell for building lots some 
of the farm lands now that part of Greene street near Wall, and a few 
years later he sold the property where the Academ)' now stands. Bunn 
street was named for him and up to and along this street he sold in his 
lifetime, and also on Market street, taking in his old and cherished or- 
chard lying between Market street and the grove connected with the 
homestead. Thomas street was also named for him. Mr. Bunn was 
connected with different banking houses and his name gave strength 
and confidence to whatever business he was connected with. He died 
August 31, 1883, in his eighty-first year, having been a member of the 
Presbyterian church about thirty years. He left seven children and to 
these children he left a valuable property and an untarnished name. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 375 

l\A ORRIS, ABRAM VROOMAN, was born on the 4th of April, 
/ \ 1825, in the town of Watervliet, Albany county, N. Y., and is 
the second son of Isaac and Jane (Vrooman) Morris. Isaac Morris was 
a practical shoemaker, but after following that business, and keeping a 
shoe store for a time after his removal to Amsterdam in 1827, he en- 
gaged in the grocery trade. Jane Vrooman, who became the wife of 
Isaac Morris, was from Schenectady county and a member of the family 
of that name which is conspicuous in the history of the lower Mohawk 
valley. Isaac Morris died in 1870. Their family consisted of ten 
children, nine of whom were sons. 

Abram V. Morris attended the district schools and a short term at 
Horace Sprague's academy ; but the circumstances of his father's family 
were such that he felt impelled to strike out in the world for himself at 
an early age. When twelve years old he went into the store of James 
B. and Darwin Reed in Amsterdam, where he served three years. His 
next employment was in Albany in the store of Seth Crapo, where he 
remained one year. His health was not good at that time and he re- 
turned to Amsterdam and for a short period taught the village school. 
This employment was not congenial to him, and he found a situation in 
the refreshment rooms at the railroad station in St. Johnsville. He also 
served as wood measurer for the railroad company for about two years, 
and by his industry, probity and evident interest for his employers, won 
the lasting regard of William C. Young, who was then superintendent 
of the Utica and Schenectady railroad. Returning to Amsterdam, Mr. 
Morris accepted a position in the dry goods store of J. W. Sturtevant, 
where he remained till the spring of 1846. Up to this time the larger 
part of his earnings bad gone to aid the large family of his parents ; but 
he had made some small trade ventures of his own, and in 1846 opened 
a grocery and provision store on Main street, where F. W. Bohney is 
now (1892) located. Here the natural traits and firm determination of 
the young man to succeed soon exhibited themselves. Personal self 
denial he practiced to the utmost, while he gave unremitting attention 
to the smallest details of his business. He bought his goods then chief- 
ly in New York city, the ubiquitous drummer not having yet been bom, 
and he showed his native sagacity and common sense no less in selling 
at home than in his purchases from the large wholesalers of the metropo- 



376 HISTORV OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

lis. Of coarse the business grew; it was inevitable. For fourteen 
years Mr. Morris toiled incessantly in his store, bringing him down to 
the year i860, when he sold the business to two younger brothers and 
found himself in possession of almost a small fortune. 

By the time under consideration, about the beginning of the last war, 
when Amsterdam had become a place of perhaps 4,000 inhabitants, the 
manufacturing era which has since been so productive of growth and 
prosperity here, was just beginning. Several small manufacturing es- 
tablishments had been started, and Mr. Morris foresaw the result, and 
immediately took steps to enter the broad field of real estate operations 
and dealing on a large scale in agricultural products. In that year 
(i860) he built the Morris Hall block, on Main street, which was then 
the largest building on the street. He bought and sold wool, flour, 
grain and other products, and in some instances by heavy and bold in- 
vestments realized what were then considered great profits. During 
two years between i860 and 1864 he also had a partnership in the 
flouring- mill of Greene & Morris. In 1864, with the object of still fur- 
ther extending his business operations, Mr. Morris organized the private 
banking company of Morris, Phillips & Company, which successfully 
carried on banking under that style until 1869, when a dissolution by 
limitation took place, and Mr. Morris has ever since conducted the bank ; 
it is now, however, under the immediate charge of his son John V. At 
the present time Mr. Morris and his sons, Francis and John V., are 
among the largest manufacturers of the city. They have three mills for 
the manufacture of knit goods, over which Francis Morris has imme- 
diate charge, and which are conducted with the characteristic push and 
success that have marked all the various operations of the senior. They 
also have a large paper mill, while Mr. Morris himself can read his own 
title to about 1,200 acres of valuable land, much of it within the city 
corporation, with many buildings in and out of the city. On his farms 
he has given considerable attention in later years to the breeding of 
choice stock, without any object of speculation, however. In politics 
Mr. Morris is a liberal Republican ; but he has always confined his as- 
pirations in that direction to the narrowest possible limits. He has been 
solicited to accept political station, as well as his sons, but they have 
always declined, their large business interests as well as their personal 



BTOGRAPFTICAL. 37' 

tastes, leading them in other directions. Mr. Morris held the office of 
supervisor of the town one term. He has been a director in the Far- 
mers' National Bank for many years. His well known title of " Major " 
was gained in 1846, when Governor Marcy appointed him brigade in- 
spector with that rank. 

Though now on the declining side of life, Mr. Morris at sixty-seven 
years, is vigorous and active. It is only ten years since he assumed 
contracts for the construction of a large portion of the city water works, 
and the manner in which he performed that work has earned for him 
unstinted commendation, for its consummation was almost astonishing. 
For something like fourteen miles he opened the water-way, and much 
of it, particularly in the city itself, was through solid rock which had to be 
blasted with dynamite. The entire work, with the building of the great 
dam, was pushed by Mr. Morris with his characteristic energy and good 
judgment, and with such care at the same time that not a person was 
injured nor was any destruction caused in the city by the prolonged 
blasting. It was a task the successful completion of which might well 
be a source of pride to any man. The long business career of Mr. 
Morris, his unexampled success, his impregnable honesty, his firmnes.'i 
of character and behef in the right, his bluff and hearty friendship for 
those who have earned it, his public spirit and faith in his adopted city, 
his liberal support of all good causes — all these have given him a posi- 
tion in the community which amply fulfills what has been from boyhood 
his crowning ambition : to become a successful and well-rounded man. 

Mr. Morris was married first on the 30th of May, 1848, to Rebecca 
Vedder, of Florida, Montgomery county, N. Y., and she died in i860 
at the age of thirty-two years, leaving five children, four of whom are 
living. In 1861 he married Anna F. Enders, also of Florida, who is 
still living. The eldest son, John V., was born May 4, 1849, ^"d the 
younger on the 26th of April, 185 i. Both of them, as has been inti 
mated, are closely associated with their father in his large business 
operations, and share in his characteristics to a large degree. 



1NGERS0LL, JAMES, son of James, of Massachusetts, was born 
in Princetown, Schenectady cOunty, N. Y., in 1793. He married 
Janet McClumpha, who was born in 1799 in the same town ; they had 



378 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

eleven children. In 1825 they moved to Charleston and purchased the 
old Wyckoff farm of 250 acres. He died in 1848 and his wife in 1878. 
George, son of the above, was born in Charleston May 12, 1833, and 
received a common school education. He married January 9, 1867, 
Sarah J. Barlow, daughter of Moses Barlow, and this union has been 
blessed by one child named Nancy Ellen. At an early age he mani- 
fested a great desire for stock and as his father was then dead induced 
his mother to purchase some Bakewell sheep. Soon afterward he began 
to exhibit at the Montgomery county fairs. In 187 1 he began exhibit- 
ing .Leicesters and Cotswolds at the New York State Fairs and in 1881 
he commenced breeding Shropshire sheep. Two years afterward he 
removed to Thorn Hedge farm, two miles north of Fonda, which he 
purchased and has brought up to a fine condition. In 1889 he exhib- 
ited at the Buffalo International Fair and won the silver cup valued at 
$250. It was presented by the Shropshire Sheep Breeder's Associa- 
tion (England), for the best ram and five of his get, the latter to be un- 
der two years old and to have been bred by the exhibitor and also all 
to be owned by him. The competition on this occasion was very great, 
as there were sixteen competitors from si.x different states, namely : 
New Jersey, Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana and New York, and also 
Canada, but the Thorn Hedge flock secured the cup. This flock has 
since then won two gold medals at the New York State and Interna- 
tional fairs. Mr. Ingersoll has never been defeated and has taken five 
hundred premiums, many of them "first." Mr. Ingersoll has twice vis- 
ited Europe, not only to purchase stock, but to learn the best methods 
and has made personal selections from the choicest flocks in England. 
He has thus become a well-known importer as well as breeder and is 
commonly designated the great sheep man. On one of these trips he 
was accompanied by Secretary Woodward, of the State Agricultural 
Society. Thorn Hedge farm is beautifully situated on the plank road 
leading to Johnstown, and here he always has a hundred or more of 
thoroughbred stock. In addition to sheep culture Mr. Ingersoll is a 
very enterprising farmer, as may be seen by a visit to Thorn Hedge 
He has avoided politics, preferring to devote himself to that specialty in 
which he has won both wealth and distinction, and loves his home too 
well to yield to any outside influences, but being a plain, outspoken 
man, he is alwa}'s ready to give his opinions on any public question. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 37{> 

DE GRAFF, ALFRED.— The De Graff family were among the 
early settlers of Schenectady, and Isaac De Graff was conspicuous 
in the revolutionary war. He was born November i6, 1756, and held 
the rank of major in the army. He died December 21, 1844. He had 
two sons, the eldest of whom was John I., who served with honor in 
the war of 1 8 1 2. He served two terms as member of congress, and was 
honored by President Van Buren with the appointment of secretary of 
the treasury, which he was compelled to decline on account of his pri- 
vate affairs. He was one of the projectors of the Mohawk and Hudson 
railroad, and was otherwise conspicuous in the history of the valley. 
The second son was Jesse D. De Graff, born January 8, 1801, graduated 
at Union College, studied law and became a prominent attorney. He 
held the office of judge of the Common Pleas. On the loth of August, 
1830, he married Gazena Catherine Visscher, daughter of Frederick 
Herman Visscher, and they made the old Visscher mansion their per- 
manent home. He died August 4, 1868. He was the father of four 
children : Susan, Charles Herman, Alfred and Isaac Howard. The first 
of these married William Farnham, of Troy ; Charles and Howard died 
early, leaving Alfred, the subject of this notice, as the sole representa- 
tive of the family. He was born on the old homestead where he now 
resides, and which he has greatly improved. On the 14th of October, 
1869, he married Anna, daughter of Cornelius Phillips, a prominent 
farmer and business man of the 'own of Florida. Their children, Edith, 
Howard and Florence, are the si.xth generation of the family to occupy 
the beautiful home in the Mohawk valley. 

Besides the superintendence of his several large and valuable farms, 
Mr. De Graff is president of the Starin Silk Fabric Company, vice-pres- 
ident of the Fultonville National Bank, director of the Schenectady 
Bank, and is interested in various other enterprises. While taking a 
deep interest in politics he has never accepted a nomination for office. 

Mrs. De Graff is descended from Col. Frederick Visscher, whose name 
has often appeared on earlier pages of this volume in connection with 
its revolutionary history. He was one of the commissioners to dispose 
of confiscated property after the war, and a member of the state con- 
vention for appreciating currency, restraining extortion, regulating pri- 
ces and other duties. On the 22d of May, 1780, the Visscher mansion 



380 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

was assaulted by a force of Indians and tories. The inmates of the 
house were then the colonel, his mother, his sisters, two brothers and 
the servants. Their enemies numbered more than a hundred. The 
sisters fled, the brothers, John and Herman, were murdered and scalped, 
and the colonel himself was scalped and left for dead, but he revived 
and was able to carry his aged mother, who had escaped the fury of the 
savages, to a place of safety. Colonel Visscher afterwards found shel- 
ter with friends at Schenectady. Colonel Visscher was married to Ga- 
zena De Graff on the 22d of May, 1768, and he died on the 9th of June, 
1809. He was the father of four sons and two daughters. Of the 
sons, Frederick Herman, the second son, became the owner of the 
Visscher mansion, and was the father of Gazena Catherine, before men- 
tioned as the mother of Alfred De Graff. Thus were two of the historic 
families of the valley united. 



DEAN, LUTHER L.— The subject of this sketch was born in Port 
Jackson (now the fifth ward of Amsterdam), on the 8th day of 
June, 1842. His father was Daniel Dean, a native of the town of Flor- 
ida, Montgomery county, who passed most of his life as a shoe dealer 
in Port Jackson. He married Miss A. E. N Lyon, of Essex county, 
N. J., and they had three children — the subject of this sketch, who was 
the eldest; one son who died in infancy; Malissa B., now the wife of 
N. C. Becker, of Amsterdam. Daniel Dean died on the 15th of June, 
1879, ^^^ his widow is still living. Luther L. Dean's grandfather was 
Bethuel Dean, who married Margaret Phillips, of Florida, where they 
were among the early settlers. 

Luther L. Dean was, at an early age, thrown upon his own resources. 
After a period at the district school he finished his studies in the Am- 
sterdam Academy, which he attended until he was fourteen years of 
age (1856), when he entered the dry goods store of Gardiner Blood in 
Amsterdam and served as clerk four years. He then went into the 
Farmers' Bank and served as book-keeper four years and one month. 
These eight years of business experience and faithful application to the 
interests of his employers gave him confidence in himself and a reputa- 
tion in the vicinity for industry and integrity which were of great value 
to him in after years. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 381 

Associating himself witli Alonzo A. De Forest, then employed in the 
Farmers' Bank, they purchased the hardware stock of J. Warring 
& Son in Amsterdam. Mr. Dean took entire charge of this business 
and under his energetic and prudent management it was rapidly in- 
creased. At the end of fifteen months Mr. De Forest sold his interest 
to David McCowatt, the firm style becoming Dean & McCowatt, and 
the business was thus conducted two years and a quarter, wh«n their 
lease expired. During this three years the business had been increased 
from $10,000 to $30,000, and the firm found it impossible to get a re- 
newal of their lease. A sale was, therefore, made back to Warring & 
Son, Mr. McCowatt remaining with them in the business. This brings 
the record down to 1868, when Mr. Dean purchased the hardware stock 
of E. T. Leavenworth and associated with himself James P. Visscher, 
under the firm name of Dean & Visscher. This connection continued 
eight years until 1876, when Mr. Visscher died, and Mr. Dean took in 
John E. Larrabee as a partner ; he had been for eight years a clerk in 
the store. The firm name for the next six years was L, L. Dean & Co., 
and when, in 1882, Mr. Dean sold out to Larrabee & Barnes, the busi- 
ness had been pushed up to $60,000 a year. After twenty- five years 
of persevering industry in active business life, in which Mr. Dean had 
not only been eminently successful in a material sense, but had won 
from the entire community that unlimited confidence and warm friend- 
ship which follow only upon years of honorable effort, he retired for a 
brief rest of six months. 

In January, 1883, Mr. Dean, associated with W. R. McCowatt, bought 
out Oscar F. Nelson and Willie B. Neilson, of the Metropolitan knitting- 
mill, and operated it un'der the firm name of McCowatt & Dean for three 
years, when he sold out to Thomas Little and George B. Stover. 
Meanwhile and some years earlier, the idle mill building which is now 
occupied by L. L. Dean & Co., had come into possession of the former 
hardware firm, and in 1866 Mr. Dean associated with himself his 
brother-in-law, James T. Clark, and his cousin, Isaac E. Lyon, of 
Newark, N. J., fitted up the mill with knitting machinery of the first 
class, making it one of the finest establishments of the kind in the coun- 
try, gave it the name of " Park Knitting Mills," and have since carried 
on the business in a most successful manner. Such is a brief record of 



382 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Mr. Dean's business career, and it may be closed witli the statement 
that in every sense it has been an honor to him. 

Mr. Dean is an uncompromising Republican in politics, but has not 
aspired to office of any kind. He has, however, received many evi- 
dences of the confidence of the community through selection and ap- 
pointment to various posts of trust and responsibility. He has held the 
office of trustee of the village three years ; was assessor three years, and 
was one of the persons named in the original bill creating the sewer 
commission of Amsterdam, a body who built one of the most complete 
and effective sewer systems in the country, providing twenty-four miles 
of sewers at a cost of $240,000, where engineers' estimates for fifteen 
miles reached $268,000. Moreover, the bonds of the city were floated 
at three per cent., largely through the efforts of Mr. Dean, and in the 
face of often repeated predictions of moneyed men that it could not be 
done. Mr. Dean is one of the originators and a director of the Am- 
sterdam City Bank ; was one of the founders and vice-president of the 
Amsterdam Savings Bank, founded in the face of strong opposition, an 
institution which now has $450,000 on deposit. He was one of the 
originators and a director in the Amsterdam Board of Trade ; one of the 
originators and a director in the Amsterdam Library Association ; treas- 
urer of board of trustees and trustee of the Young Men's Christian 
Association, and has been its president at three different periods. He 
has been an elder in the Reformed Church many years and superin- 
tendent of its Sunday-school thirteen years. 

This record speaks for itself arid needs little comment from the bi- 
ographer. Starting at the foot of the ladder in life, Mr. Dean has 
attained a position among the foremost representative citizens of the 
community. 

Mr. Dean was married June 17, 1863, to Mary S. Clark, daughter of 
the late James A. Clark, of Amsterdam. They have one daughter 
Fanny, born September 26, 1876. They have had three sons, all of 
whom are deceased. 



BLOOD. GARDINER, was born on the 12th day of March, 1829, 
near Mt. Morris, Livingston county, N. Y. He is a son of Alex- 
ander Blood, who was a native of Florida, Montgomery county, and 
went to Livingston county at the age of twenty-one years, among the 



BIOaRAPHICAL. 383 

pioneers who took up and improved lands in this section. He was a 
respected citizen of that county and died there in 1831, when the sub- 
ject of this sketch was only two years old. His wife was Nancy Clark, 
who was born at Hagaman's Mills, in the town of Amsterdam. Their 
children were three, two sons and one daughter. The elder son, Rob- 
ert, is deceased. 

After the death of his father, Gardiner Blood was brought back to 
Montgomery county, and from that time until he was eighteen years 
old, he lived the greater part of the time with his grandfather on what 
was known as the Blood farm, in the town of Glen. His education was 
the best he was able to acquire in the district school and later at the 
Amsterdam Academy. Leaving school at the age of eighteen, he went 
to Fultonville as clerk for Shuler, Cromwell & Co.; but three months 
later he entered the store of A. Mathews & Son, in Schenectady, where 
he remained four years, from 1847 to 185 1, winning the regard and 
confidence of his employers by his faithfulness to their interests and his 
integrity In 1851 he removed to Fultonville and formed the partner- 
ship of Blood & Conyne, general merchants, which relationship con- 
tinued until 1854. Mr. Blood next located as a merchant at Syracuse, 
but three months later came to Amsterdam, bought out a dry goods 
store and conducted it with success for ten years. In 1864 he joined 
in partnership with the late James H. Schuyler in the then young knit 
goods business. The manufactory was situated on the same premises 
now occupied by Blood & Stewart. This firm became one of the most 
successful and enterprising in the place, and they carried on the business 
together in harmony for twenty-four years, until 1888. During this 
long period, great advances were made in the methods employed in 
the industry, and the firm of Schuyler & Blood was commonly found 
in the fore front of the business. Mr. Schuyler died in 1885, but his 
interest in the mills remained in the estate until 1888, as above noted, 
being represented by his son-in-law, John K. Stewart, who purchased 
his father-in-law's interest in the year last named. (See succeeding 
sketch of Mr. Stewart.) The mills of Blood & Stewart are now among 
the largest and most successful in Amsterdam. The product is wholly 
men's and women's cotton underwear, and about 400 operatives are 
employed. He has also been a partner in a knitting mill with W. R. 



384 HISTORY OF MONTaOMERY COUNTY. 

McCowatt since 1888. Mr. Blood's business capacity and executive 
ability are fully understood and recognized by his fellow-citizens, while 
his staunch integrity and many sterling qualities have given him an en- 
viable position in the community. He is public spirited and holds the 
welfare of the city as of prime importance ; he was made second vice- 
president of the Board of Trade ; has held the office of president of the 
village one term ; was assessor for three years ; water commissioner 
three years, 1881-84. He is an unswerving Republican in politics and 
gives judicious support to his party. 

Mr. Blood has been a member of the Second Presbyterian church for 
about thirty years. He was married in 1855 to Gazena Elizabeth Put- 
man, daughter of Cornelius H. Putman, of Glen. They have had two 
children, a son and a daughter ; the son is deceased. The daughter is 
the wife of P. H. Bennett, of Amsterdam.* 



STEWART, JOHN KNOX, was born in the town of Perth, Fulton 
county, N. Y,, on the 20th of October, 1853. His father was 
William Stewart, also a native of Perth, who came to Amsterdam in the 
year i860 and established a knitting mill ; this was burned in 1866, and 
on its site a paper-mill was erected, which he carried on successfully until 
his death in 1 872. William Stewart married Catherine Knox, of Galway, 
N. Y., and she died in 1882. They had two children, the subject of 
this sketch and a daughter. During his life in Amsterdam Mr. Stewart 
gained an enviable reputation as a business man, and for his integrity, 
public spirit and admirable qualities. 

John Knox Stewart came to Amsterdam with his parents, and received 
his education in the academy, which he left in 1871, to take charge of 
his father's estate, then comprising the paper- mill above mentioned. In 
1877 he married Sarah E. Schuyler, daughter of the late James H. 
Schuyler, of Amsterdam. Mr. Schuyler was among the leading manu- 
facturers of the place, and long associated with Gardiner Blood in the 
knitting mills, as described in the preceding sketch. In 1885 Mr. 
Stewart entered the knitting-mill office of Schuyler & Blood, in aid of 
his father-in-law, whose health had begun to decline, and continued in 
that capacity until his father-in-law's death, which occurred in 1885. 

' Mr. Blood died November 29, 1S92. 



BIOGRArniCAL. 38& 

In December, 1888, he bought the one-half interest formerly owned b}' 
Mr. Schuyler, and has since continued as a member of the firm of Blood 
& Stewart. Though still a }'oung man, Mr. Stewart has shown business- 
capacity of an exceptional character, while by his personal traits he has 
firmly established himself in the business and social life of the place. A 
Republican in politics, his ability and personal popularity led to his 
nomination and election to the State assembly in 1890, where he served 
his constituents to their entire satisfaction. He has been a director of 
the Farmer's National bank of Amsterdam since 1890, and was one of 
the originial sewer commissioners, holding that office three years. He 
is a member and treasurer of the First Presbyterian church. 

Mr. Stewart was married in 1877 to Sarah E. Schuyler, daughter o\ 
James H. Schuyler, before mentioned, and they have two sons. 



SERV'ISS, JOHN G., was born in the town of Florida, Montgonur}- 
county, N. Y , on the ist of May, 1847. His father was Alexan- 
der Serviss, who was also a native of Florida, and a leading farmer ol 
the county. His mother was Nancy Sherburne of the same town. The 
grandfather of John G. was Lawrence Serviss, who was a man of strong 
character, a progressive and prominent farmer. He was conspicuous in 
the organization of the Whig party, and in many ways a leading citizen. 
His wife was Mary Bigham, a native of Scotland. Their cliildren were 
Alexander, George, Helen who married into the Voorhees family, and 
Elizabeth, who married a member of the historic Vanderveer family. 
Going back still another generation, we find that the great- grandfathei 
of John G. was a revolutionary soldier and came to the Mohawk Valley 
very early in its history. Alexander .Serviss died May 19, 1887, in 
Florida, and his widow is still living. The honiestead in the town ol 
Florida is still in the family. 

John G. Serviss was given excellent educational advantages and In 
improved them to the utmost. Leaving tiie district school at the age 
of sixteen years, he attended the Amsterdam Academy one year, and 
the following year studied in the academy at Jonesville, Saratoga coun- 
ty. He then completed the classical course in the Fort Edward Col 
legiate Institute, leaving that institution when he was twenty years old. 



386 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

He had already formed the determination to follow teaching as his life 
work and began at Minaville in his native town, where he remained 
three years. On the i8th of August, 1873, he received the appoint- 
ment of principal in Union School No. 11 in Amsterdam. This posi- 
tion he filled with eminent satisfaction to the community for fourteen 
years. Long before the expiration of this protracted period, Mr. Ser- 
viss had demonstrated that he possessed both natural and acquired 
qualifications as a teacher, and was prolific in advanced practical ideas 
which he knew how to apply to his profession. Under his direction the 
school became one of exceptional standing, and the degree of satisfac- 
tion with which his efforts were received by those having the educa- 
tional interests of the place in charge, is shown by his appointment on 
the 1st of September, 1887, as superintendent of that school, which 
responsible position he still holds. In his present capacity Professor 
Serviss has found a still wider field of activity, and has made himself 
known over a broad extent of territory as one of the progressive 
educators of the state. Quick to discover the merit or demerit of 
new methods for the advancement of education, he adopts all that 
seems good, and by his good judgment and practical knowledge 
and sound common sense, applies them successfully to his purposes. 
Neither is he wanting in originality in his chosen field and many edu- 
cational improvements which have been adopted in Amsterdam and 
elsewhere are the result of his thought and study. Since his appoint- 
ment to the superintendency two new school buildings have been 
erected, and every step of this progress and extension has received his 
untiring care and zeal, and felt the influence of his practical wisdom and 
prudence. To-day he is in the confidence of the community, and the 
feeling that the school system could not be in better hands is almost 
universal. 

Professor Serviss has received ample evidence of the esteem and 
confidence of his fellow citizens. In 1884 he was elected superintendent 
of the Second Presbyterian Church Sabbath-school, and filled the posi- 
tion until the founding of the Immanuel Presbyterian Church, when he 
was chosen one of the elders of the last named church and still holds 
the oflSce. In March, 1890, he was elected secretary of the Amsterdam 
Board of Trade, held the office two years and resigned on account of the 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 387 

multiplicity of his other duties. In that body he has been chairman of 
the educational committee since the organization of the board. He was 
chosen chairman of the committee of the tri county educational coun- 
cil, which drafted the course of study for the schools of the three coun- 
ties, Montgomery, Herkimer and Fulton. He has served on several 
examining boards for the United States service at West Point and 
Annapolis. In January, 1890, he was elected one of the trustees of 
the Amsterdam Y. M. C. A., a life office in a board that has the higher 
charge of the affairs of that beneficent organization. On the ist of 
December, 1891, he was elected trustee of the Amsterdam Library 
Association. In all of these various stations Professor Serviss has met 
the requirements to the utmost and won the confidence of his fellows. 
Wholly self-reliant, careful in forming his judgment and tenacious in the 
support of what he deems to be right, with executive ability of a high 
order, he makes himself a useful servant of the best interests of the 
community, and has made for himself a record of which he has every 
reason to be proud. 

Professor Serviss was married on the 25th of September, 1872, to 
Lottie S. Bussing, ot Minaville, only daughter of Harmon Bussing 
and Margaret Schuyler. They have two children, Schuyler B. and 
Florence. 



BRAGDON, HENRY S., was born in Sullivan, Hancock county. 
Me., January 28, 18 15, and was the son of Jonathan and Mary 
(Welch) Bragdon. His early life was spent in his native town, where 
he learned the trade of stonecutter. He left when about twenty years of 
age to go to Portland where he cut stone for two years, losing all that 
he earned during that time by the failure of his employer. He then 
came to New York city where he remained but a short time, cutting 
stone used in the construction of Trinity church. Leaving New York 
he came to Tribes Hill and thence to Canajoharie, where he followed 
his trade for a few years, and then opened a dry goods store. He was 
very fortunate in having a large quantity of goods at the breaking out 
of the war, and on them he made large profits. In politics Mr. Brag- 
don was a staunch Republican, and was always ready to assist in public 
matters whenever called upon. In his business cares Mr. Bragdon 



388 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

gained that eminent title — an iionest man in its broadest sense. F"iilly 
imbued with Christian principles, lie relied upon the teachings of the 
Bible for a guide, and the golden rule was a precept that he always en- 
■ leavored to practice. His pub ic spirit was conspicuous, and when he 
•once decided that a measure for public welfare was deserving of his 
■support, nothing could swerve him from it or shake his determination 
to carry it through This characteristic was displa\ ed in the water 
-works difficulties in the village a few years ago, when he generously 
risked his money and sustained the effort. All wlio knew him found 
him a true friend in adversity. He retired from business in 1879, and 
was thenceforth engaged in the care of his estate, and was for many 
years a director of the Canajoharie Bank. He will be remembered in 
this vicinity not only as a successful merchant, but also as a kind and 
unostentatious member of society. At his death, which occurred Jur,e 
19. 1892, the village lost one of its most honored citizens. 

Mr. Bragdon was married in 1847 to Maria Fox, daughter of Charles 
Fox of Fort Plain. Their children who survive them are W'infield S. 
of Johnstown, James F. of Schenect:tdy, and Mar\- A., wifeofHany 
A. Swartfinger of Canajoharie. 



JOHNSTON, WILLIAM N., was born in Palatine Bridge, March 
18, 1842. His father was George G. Johnston ; his grandfather, 
George W. Johnston ; his great-grandfather, George Johnston, a native 
of Inverness, Scotland, born in 174O, and who came to Stratford, Conn., 
in 1760, where he remained until his death in 1790; he had two chil- 
dred, George W. and Emily. George W. was born in 1770 ; in 1792 
he married Nancy Wright, a niece of Governor Silas Wright, of New 
York. They had five sons and one daughter. He died in Glenville in 
I 840. 

George G. Johnston, father of Wm. N., was born in Stratford in 
1794; he served an apprenticeship in an iron foundry, which business 
he followed up and made a success of, having erected and owned foun- 
dries in Black Rock, Palatine Bridge, and the city of Brooklyn. He 
died in 1872. He was married three times; first to Gertrude Van 
Slyke, who bore him two sons and two daughters; second to Mary A. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 389 

Ruby of Albany, by whom he had two sons and one daughter ; third, 
to Atlanta Boutelle Allen, in 1834, who bore him three sons and four 
daughters. Atlanta Allen was a daughter of William Allen of Towns- 
end, Vt., who, with his father, served in the revolutionary war. 

William N. Johnston, son of George G., attended the common school 
and also a preparatory course in the Canajoharie Academy He en- 
listed, November 8, 1 861, in the I02d N. Y. Volunteers, was promoted 
to first lieutenant, then to captain, to assistant inspector- general of the 
brigade, and at the close of the war was breveted major for gallant and 
meritorious conduct in the field. He served with his regiment in the 
Shenandoah campaign and the army of the Potomac in the east, and 
the army of the Cumberland in the west. 

After his return from the war Mr. Johnston attended Beloit College 
for about two years, then began the study of law, and in 1870 was ad- 
mitted to the bar, He practiced law until 1876, when he was elected 
county clerk and re elected in 1879. After serving six years as county 
county clerk he was appointed at different times to responsible posi- 
tions under the state administration. In 1888 he engaged in the stone 
business under the firm name of Johnston & Shaper, which was after- 
wards merged in the Mohawk Valley Stone Company, of which com- 
pany Mr. Johnston is now president. In all the relations of life — busi- 
ness, political and social, Mr. Johnston has been governed by high 
motives and won the confidence and esteem of all by his upright and 
honorable course. 

In 1872 he married Elizabeth, daughter of William and Ann Eliza 
(Gauley) Dolsen of New York. They have five children : George 
Albert and William Allen, students of Union College ; Harry Ferris, 
Agnes Atlanta and Edwin Granville. Mr. Johnston has always been 
an active Democrat and is now serving his third ttim as supervisor of 
the town. 

JOHNSTON, ALBERT J., eldest son of George G. and Atlanta 
(Allen) Johnston, was born at Palatine Bridge, January 31, 1839. 
He passed his early life in his native town attending the local schools, 
graduating at the age of eighteen from the Canajoharie Academy. 
Soon after leaving school he went to Fort Yuma, Arizona Territory, 



390 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

where his half brother, Capt. George A. Johnston, was uiterested in a 
hne of steamboats that transported provisions from the Pacific coast up 
the Healy River to Fort Yuma, which was at that time a United States 
military post. This was a passenger as well as a freight line and Albert 
J. occupied the position of assistant manager of the line. After filling 
this position three years he returned overland to Palatine Bridge, where he 
commenced the study of law and was admitted to practice the profession 
in the United States courts, and also filled the position of deputy sheriff 
for a number of years. In the summer of 1869 Gov. Don Pio Pico, one 
of the last Spanish governors of California, accompanied by Capt. Geo. 
A. Johnston and wife, visited Palatine Bridge and persuaded Albert J. to 
return to California, where he became secretary to the governor, resid- 
ing a^t Los Angeles, Cal. He had entire charge of the governor's busi- 
ness affairs a little over two years, but be finally accepted the position 
of under sheriff of Los Angeles county, the sheriff being at that time 
Mr. Rowland, who did not perform any of the active duties of the office. 
In 1874 Albert J. was the leader of the party that captured Tiburcio 
Vasquez, the noted Mexican outlaw who was the most notorious and 
successful bandit of California and for whose arrest the state had 
offered large rewards. Soon after this Mr. Johnston removed to Denver, 
Colo., and became interested in different mines at Leadville, Colo. He 
resided at Denver till 1886, when, being taken sick, in his attempt to 
reach his native town, died on the route. He is buried in Palatine, and 
in his death Montgomery county lost a son that home and abroad made 
lifelong friends and was always a cheerful companion and associate 
of those he met in his path of life. 



VAN DENBERGH, WALTER L., was born on the paternal farm 
in Coxsackie, where he remained until his si.xteenth year. His 
father's ancestors were of Holland descent, and both the father and 
the subject of this sketch inherited the physical vigor and the ten- 
acity of purpose which characterize that race. His taste for literature 
early asserted itself, and whether as a clerk in a country store, or occu- 
pied in the forwarding business, he continued his studies and made good 
the deficiency in his early education. His experience as a forwarder 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 391 

for many years, both in New York and in Montgomery county, as well 
as in other branches of trade, gave him a large acquaintance, and estab- 
lished his character as an energetic and discreet business man. In after 
years when engaged in the practice of the law, many who had been 
customers, became clients. Leaving commercial pursuits, he read law 
with Frothingham Fish, was admitted in 1861, and soon took ijank with 
the solid members of the Montgomery county bar. After practicing 
successfully at Fultonvillle for several years, he removed to Amsterdam, 
where he established a still higher reputation in the profession. He 
married, in 1846, Alice Fish, youngest daughter of Howland and Eliza 
{Frothingham) Fish, who died March 15, 1890, greatly mourned by 
all her acquaintances. 

Mr. Van Denbergh's father, Robert I. Van Denbergh, was born Jan- 
uary 29, 1791, at the homestead at Coxsackie, where his ancestors had 
then lived for about a century. He was educated at Union College, 
read law, and during the remainder of his life devoted himself to agri- 
culture. He married Laura R. Reed of the same place, and of that 
union four children reached mature years : Angelica, who married Peter 
L Philip of Columbia county; Isabella, who resides at Coxsackie ; Wal- 
ter L., above noted ; and Eliza, wife of Conrad A. Hotaling of Newark, 
N. J. The Van Denberghs rendered loyal military services to their 
country during the Revolution. 



LUTHER, HENRY. — The subject of this sketch was a son ot 
Gideon Luther, and was born at Ballston Spa, N. Y., on the 5th 
day of January, 1831. His opportunities for securing education were 
confined to the district schools, and when he had reached his majority, 
in 1852, he went to Cleveland, O., where he was employed five years. 
At the end of that period he removed to Kentucky and there engaged 
in the clothing business, which he continued successfully until the 
breaking out of the war. Returning to his old home he remained 
there until 1870, when he removed to Amsterdam and continued in 
active business life until bis death, which occurred on the isth of De- 
cember, 1881. In Amsterdam Mr. Luther's excellent business qualifi- 
cations were fully recognized, while he was esteemed for his integrity 



392 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and uprightness. He filled the office of president of the village in 
1876 and was otherwise honored by his fellow-citizens. 

Mr. Luther was first married, in February, 1872, to Mrs. Melissa 
Wilson (Ford). Mrs. Luther died on the 6th of April, 1878. Mr. 
Luther married second, on the 9th of October, 1879, Mary, daughter 
of George Briggs, of Ballston Spa. They have two children, Henry, 
jr , born October 21, 1880, and a daughter, born after Mr. Luther's 
death, March 6, 1882, and named Melanie. 



B ROWER, HENRY TEN EYCK.— The Brower family bears an 
historic interest in the Mohawk valley. Harmon Brower was born 
in Schenectady in 17 18, and settled at Stone Arabia. He married Mar- 
garet Ecker and they had eight children. Harmon was a son of William 
and Maria (Henmen) Brower. .Wilhelmus was one of the eight chil- 
dren of Harmon Brower and was born at Stone Arabia in 1755. He 
purchased the homestead farm of his father in 1784 and built a log 
house in the woods. The first two dollars earned was by burning trees 
to make a clearing and selling the ashes. Those silver dollars are kept 
in the family as relics, their date being 1773, under the reign of Charles 
ni. of Spain. Wilhelmus married Jane Gray, and after years of 
labor and thrift he built a large two-story frame house, which is still 
used as a tenant house and is in a good state of preservation, though 
ninety years old. Wilhelmus died in 1 841. He had one son, Harmon 
W., who was born at Stone Arabia October 18, 1781, the day before 
Cornwallis's surrender. He married Maria, daughter of Captain Henry 
Ten Eyck. The latter was an officer under General La Fayette, who 
took him from Harvard College to place him in the American army, 
and he was wounded in action at Stony Point. Harmon W. Brower 
graduated from Union College in 1804 and was clerk for Judge Aaron 
Haring at Johnstown for seven years, after which he settled on the 
home farm in Mohawk with his father. He was a man of strong literary 
tastes and it is remembered of him that he paid $150 and three horses 
for a set of the Edinburgh Encyclopedia. In politics he was a Whig 
and by his learning and natural qualifications was prominent in the 
communitv. He was the father of five children — William, born Octe- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 39? 

I 

ber 1 8, 182 1, died in 1865 J Henry Ten Eyck, born February 11, 1824; 
Cornelius, died when tliree years old, and two daughters who died in 
infancy. Harmon W. Brouer died June 21, 1846, and his wife on 
April 21, 1833. 

Henry Ten Eyck Brower, the grandson of Wiihelmus, is a graduate 
of Union college, has always lived on the home farm, and is a con- 
spicuous citizen of the town. In 1868 he erected an elegant and spa- 
cious brick residence and has added several hundred acres of land to the 
estate. During the war period he held the office of supervisor two 
terms and faithfully discharged the duties of the position. He married, 
January 8, 1868, Alice, daughter of Henry IVIathise. They have two 
children, Harmon T. E. and Arthur H., both of whom reside with their 
parents. Mr. Brower's farm contains a burial plot on which four gen- 
erations of the family are laid to rest. ' 



l\A CCOWATT, WALTER R.— The subject of this sketch was born 
/ \ in Paisley, Scotland, January 23, 1838, and four years later came 
to the United States with his mother, his father having preceded them 
two years. The family first settled in New York city, where the son 
was educated in the public schools, finishing in the Amsterdam Acad- 
emy after the removal of the family to this place. Entering upon a 
business career while yet a young man, Mr. McCowatt first carried on 
a merchant tailoring establishment, and a little later formed one of the 
firm of McCowatt, Nelson & Wendell, coal dealers, his partners being 
Oscar F. Nelson and the late Harmon Wendell. In order to broaden 
his field of business operations he joined with Luther L. Dean in the 
manufacture of knit goods, under the firm name of McCowatt & Dean, 
which continued until 1885, when Thomas Liddle and George B. 
Stover took Mr, Dean's interest in the manufactory — the firm 
continuing under the style of W. R. McCowatt & Co., as Mr. McCow- 
att's estate owns the controlling interest. From the time of his entering 
upon this line of industry Mr. McCowatt made its every detail a constant 
and persevering study and became before his death one of the best in- 
formed and thoroughly practical manufacturers in this business which 
forms so large a part of the industry of Amsterdam. Developing the 



394 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

habits of prudence and persistent industry which he had early formed, 
and bringing to bear his natural qualifications of sagacity, executive abil- 
ity and sound judgment, Mr. McCowatt became long before his untimely 
death one of the foremost manufacturers of the city and enjoyed the re- 
spect and confidence of the entire community in the broadest sense. This 
statement is proven by the fact that he was made president of the Knit 
Goods Manufacturers' Association of Amsterdam upon its formation 
and held the position until his death ; he was also prominent in the 
State association. Upon the formation of the Board of Water Commis- 
sioners of the city his fellow-citizens chose him as one of its members 
and the Common Council of 1886 reappointed him. He served one 
term as president of the board and was treasurer at the time of his 
death, having contributed invaluable service in the important work of 
giving the city pure water. He also held the office of trustee of the 
village previous to its organization as a city, and was president of the 
village from 1879 to 1881, serving three terms. In all of these various 
capacities Mr. McCowatt demonstrated his possession of all those quali- 
ties which constitute the public spirited, able and honorable citizen, 
gaining the fullest approbation of his associates and the community at 
large. An extensive reader upon all topics of current interest, his 
general intelligence covered a wide range, while his natural ability as a 
ready and forcible speaker gave him a degree of influence over others 
that was unusual. This influence was ever exercised for the best good 
of the greatest number. His business career was founded upon princi- 
ples of integrity and uprightness and his character was in every sense 
above reproach. He was prominent in the Board of Trade and con- 
tributed much to the good work of that body. A member and constant 
attendant at the Presbyterian Church, Mr. McCowatt lived a life that 
was an honor to himself and his family and a model for the young, 
whose interests he made his own. His loss to the city and particularly 
to the family whom he so cherished was one that cannot be replaced. 
Mr. McCowatt married September 26, 1865, Jennie A. Van Wormer 
of Amsterdam. They had seven children, four of whom are deceased. 
The survivors are Horace H., born December 2, 1870; Jennie M., born 
May 2, 1876; and Walton C, born April 21, 1883. 





/ 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 395 

SIMPSON, GEORGE C— The subject of this sketch was born 
June lO, 1817, near the present city of Amsterdam, and was of 
Scotch parentage. His father, George B. Simpson, died in 181S, while 
his mother, Helen Stuart McKay, reached the advanced age of eighty- 
six. 

His education was limited to the few advantages to be derived from 
the district schools of that day, and at an early age he was thrown upon 
his own resources ; but he happily possessed a good constitution, clear 
head, and industry. 

He learned the saddlery and harness trade, and after becoming mas- 
ter of the calling, opened a shop in Fultonville in 1843. In 1851 he 
opened another shop in Fonda, in which place he built his home, on 
Prospect Hill, where he lived until his death, which occurred March 28, 
1891. 

While residing in Fultonville he married Miss Lucy T. Gardener. 
Six children were born to them, three of whom died in infancy. 
April 25, 1867, Mrs. Simpson died, leaving three children — Helen M., 
John H., and Jeane G. 

John H., the only son who survived infancy, was for many years an 
invalid, devoting most of his time to study. He was one of the best 
informed men of the county, and died November 10, 1887, aged thirty- 
three years. 

In 1867 Mr. Simpson, having acquired a reasonable competency, 
retired from business and devoted his time to the care of his estate, 
and also always finding plenty to do as a neighbor and citizen. 

When he settled in Fonda he immediately identified himself with the 
interests of the town. Whether it was the consolidation of schools, to 
repair or build school-houses or churches, or any other work in which 
the general weal was concerned, he was always ready with level head, 
a liberal and working hand, laboring as if it were for himself alone. 
For eighteen years he served as trustee of the public school, and was 
loan commissioner for many years. 

He was strongly interested in politics, but never an office-seeker. 
At first a Whig and then a Republican, he was highly esteemed among 
his political associates and the leading men of the county. 



396 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

During the Rebellion he served on all the war committees for the 
town of Mohawk, and rendered valuable service in filling the quota of 
men called for, and with others insisting that as the large bounties were 
voted they should be collected and paid, so that when the war closed 
the town of Mohawk owed no bounty debt. 

While leaning strongly toward Universalism in his belief, he never- 
theless did much in support of other churches. If he had any creed, 
it was as broad as humanity. He was also a radical temperance man, 
sparing neither time nor money in support of the cause. 

George C. Simpson was a constant reader, a careful thinker, a close 
observer, well informed on all subjects, and a man of strong convictions 
and unbending integrity. He fearlessly supported that which he be- 
lieved to be right and as earnestl\- opposed that which he believed to 
be wrong. His life was exemplary and pure. 

At the age of seventy-four he passed peacefully away and was laid 
to rest among his beloved kindred in the Fultonville cemetery. 



rONDA, HENRY A., of Milton, Pa., president of the First National 
Bank of that place and an enterprising and public spirited citizen, 
was born in the town of Fonda, Montgomery county, N. Y., \\4iich town 
derived its name from one of his ancestors. After graduating from the 
district schools of his native place, he entered the Homer, N. Y., Acad- 
emy, where he devoted two years to the study of the higher branches 
of English. The science of engineering possessed an attraction for him 
and at the age of seventeen he adopted it as his life work, entering upon 
his labors as an assistant in an engineering corps on the Utica ^nd Syr- 
cuse railroad. From this road he passed in a short time to the Erie, on 
which he held at first the position of rod- man, but later on that of 
superintendent of construction on the section between Corning and 
Hornellsville. In different capacities, some of them involving great 
responsibilities, he remained with the Erie road about six years. Upon 
leaving it he engaged with the Canandaigua and Niagara Falls road, as 
superintendent of construction and repairs. After filling this post two 
years he removed to Pennsj-lvania and accepted the position of super- 
intendent of construction on the Catawissa railroad, then thirty- five miles 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 397 

in extent. After being promoted to the position of assistant superin- 
tendent, and being advanced from that office to the responsible post of 
general superintendent of the road, he closed his connection with it 
(then of five years' duration), to accept the office of general superin- 
tendent of the Elmira and Williamsport railroad, to the duties of which 
he devoted the ensuing three years. In 1864 he became general super- 
intendent of the Lackawanna and Bloomsburg railroad, then under con- 
trol of the Delaware and Western Railroad Company. 

After serving this corporation five years he took a contract to build 
a railroad from Carbondale to Susquehanna. This contract being com- 
pleted he took service with the Delaware and Hudson railroad, as general 
superintendent, and was placed in charge of all the lines of this large cor- 
poration from Carbondale, Pa., to Whitehall and Rutland, Vt. At the 
expiration of four years' steady service under this company, he retired 
from active duty and took up his residence in Philadelphia, where he 
spent several years. In 1887 he removed to Milton, where he established 
a permanent residence. Having definitely relinquished engineering pur- 
suits, he turned his attention to farming and stock-raising. He is now 
the owner of a large stock farm and residence on Cayuga lake, near 
Aurora, and also of five extensive stock farms in the vicinity of Milton. 
His barn on the largest farm on Cayuga lake is the finest in the state. 

Mr. Fonda has paid particular attention to the breeding of Hamble- 
tonian stock and has raised many notable specimens of this strain. His 
success in this later departure in farming and stock-raising is extremely 
gratifying to him. In them he finds agreeable and interesting relax- 
ation, which is both welcome and beneficial after so many years of active 
and absorbing railroad life. Since 1888 Mr. Fonda has been president 
of the First National Bank of Milton, and he divides his time between 
his duties as a financier and the agreeable occupation of a " gentleman 
farmer." His habits are those of a thorough business man, everything 
confided to his charge being attended to thoroughly and with the strict- 
est regard for the interest of others, as well as respect for their rights. 

At a time when real estate in Chicago was low in value and on the 
rise, he invested largely in property in that city, and has reaped a rich 
reward as a result of his enterprise and sagacity in this field. After 
the disastrous conflagration which in 1880 destroj'ed so large an amount 



398 inSTORV OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

of property in Milton, Mr. Fonda promptly loaned quite an amount of 
money to rebuild the place, and through this wise and timely action on 
his part it has rapidly recovered from the damaging blow it sustained, 
and is making rapid strides to a more prosperous and advanced con- 
dition. His public spirited action in this and other matters has had 
a weighty influence upon the business interests of Milton, and has 
earned for him a reward in the general prosperity which gratifies him 
far more than any pecuniary advantage he may eventually reap in con- 
sequence. Mr. Fonda started in life without means and has reached 
his present financial independence and leading position as a citizen, 
solely through his own unaided enterprise and abilit}'. So far from this 
fact operating to close his heart to the claims of his less fortunate fellow- 
men, it seems to exert just the contrary effect, for it is well known that 
many who were struggling have been helped by his generosity, extended 
willingly and from a sense of duty as a steward of wealth, rather than 
through any desire for notoriety or subsequent reward. Men gifted 
with such admirable qualities raise the standard of life and living, both 
for themselves and all who dwell within reach of their influence, and 
may justly be styled the pillars of the community — the strong supports 
of the higher ideas of duty and citizenship prevailing in a free and en- 
lightened country. Every dollar of Mr. Fonda's wealth has been 
amassed by straightforward business operations. Disdaining sharp prac- 
tices and resolutely declining them, he nevertheless acquired means far 
in excess of many who descended to petty if not more culpable methods. 
He lives in a manner commensurate with his ample fortune and social 
position, and not the least of his satisfaction is the consciousness that 
his success with all that it brings, is the outcome of an upright business 
life. His farms adjoining the town of Milton, containing in all 700 
acres, aie models, and upon them is to be found some of the finest stock 
in the state. In addition to his connection with the First National Bank, 
he is a director in several other banks, and also of the Elmira and 
Williamsport railroad company. He has never accepted any political 
office nor had any aspirations in that direction, but held a commission 
as colonel on Governor Pollock's staff during his term as governor of 
the state of Pennsylvania. Modest and retiring in disposition, he avoids 
rather than courts notoriety, although never withholding his name or in- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 399 

fluence from any enterprise having for its object the benefit of mankind. 
His charities are bestowed quietly, and to many he has been a true 
friend in times of panic and distress. 

Mr. Fonda married, on January i, 1862, Miss CaroHne Louisa Brown, 
daughter of Isaac Brown, a prominent merchant of Milton. His only 
child, a son, Lawrence B. Fonda, who was educated at the University 
of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, has recently joined the Sons of the 
Revolution through that patriotic record which has been so faithfully 
won by his ancestors. Mr. Fonda's grandfather (Henry Fonda) served 
as a captain in the war of 181 2, and his great-grandfather (Adam Fonda) 
was lieutenant-colonel under General Herkimer at the Oriskany battle. 
Adam Fonda was a son of Douw Fonda, who was slain by the tories 
during Sir John Johnson's raid in 1780. What a debt our country owes 
to this ancient patriotism ! 



WEMPLE, EDWARD— The subject of this sketch comes from 
ancestry noted for their sturdy characteristics, their devotion to 
principle and their love of liberty. Far back in the history of Holland 
his forefathers lived and labored for the good of their country and hu- 
manity, and their enterprise was not confined to their native land. 
They sought other and wider fields for advancement of civilization and 
human progress. Large numbers of them sought this free land, where 
they found ample room and opportunity to develop material resources, 
and where they labored with strong hands and brave hearts to subdue 
the forests, establish homes, and aid in the upbuilding of the great cita- 
del of freedom. They were also the first to establish free schools in 
this country and to introduce the noble sentiment that all men are born 
free and with equal rights. The Mohawk valley was the theatre where 
these sturdy emigrants did their whole duty, and its later pre-eminence 
as a progressive and well governed locality is due very largely to 
them. 

In the year 17 12 a Johannes Wemple, an ancestor of the comptroller, 
was one of the company to whom Queen Anne granted the Caughna- 
waga patent, which included grants of lands in the Mohawk valley. 
Other Wemples came from their old homes in Holland and settled in 
this new region. Inspired with the principles of civil and religious lib- 



400 HISTORV OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

erty they built school houses and planted churches, and caused the 
waste and desolate places to bloom like a garden all along the now rich 
valley of the Mohawk. More than a century ago a Mr. Wemple was 
one of the founders of the old Dutch church of Fonda, which stood 
among the earliest landmarks of religious devotion in this country. This 
ancient church was taken down a few years ago. 

The Wemples were known for their patriotism here. During the old 
French and English wars they bravely defended their homes against the 
invaders, and when the storm of the Revolution broke with all its vio- 
lence over our shores they heartily espoused the cause of the struggling 
colonists. And no one rejoiced more truly than did the Wemples of 
those revolutionary days, who were living in the Mohawk valley, when 
they at length saw the sunshine of liberty gleaming through clouds and 
darkness, and the star spangled banner of Washington and Adams and 
Jefferson unfurled over this new and rising Republic. 

On the 23d of October, 1843, Edward Wemple first saw the light of 
day in the old home at Fultonville, N. Y. At the common schools 
of his native village he was taught the rudiments of his earliest 
education, and was afterwards a student of the Ashland Academy in 
Greene county, and of the Schenectady Union School, where he was 
prepared for a collegiate course. He learned readily, and was a diligent 
student ; hence he was ready for college at an earlier age than most 
other boys. Entering Union College, then in a flourishing condition, 
he was graduated from there in 1866, at the age of twenty-three. He 
was not long in deciding upon the choice of a profession, for during his 
college course the study of political and legal science seems to have 
possessed special charms for him. On leaving college he entered on 
the study of law in the office of W. L. Van Denbergh. 

Mr. Wemple's father was at that time largely engaged in the foundry 
business at Fultonville, and needed the assistance of an active, educated 
young man to assist him in carrying on the management of the concern, 
and so he persuaded his son Edward to relinquish his legal studies and 
enter into partnership with him. It just suited the active temperament 
of our young law student, and was an agreeable change from the close 
sedentary habits of professional life. He soon acquired a thorough, 
practical knowledge of the foundry business, and on the death of his 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 401 

father in 1869 he continued it with increasing success down to the pres- 
ent. At the same time he was diUgently employing his leisure moments 
in the study of political and state affairs in which he was to become so 
prominent, exhibiting those qualifications which belong to the right man 
in the right place. 

Mr. Wemple entered political life as an ardent young advocate of the 
principles of the Democratic party, to which he has always adhered with 
an uncompromising spirit. He had scarcely readied the age of thirty 
before he was chosen president of the village of Fultonville, in 1873, 
and from that period we may date the beginning of his useful, active, 
and honorable career as a popular political leader. He next filled the 
office of supervisor of his native town, in the prosperity of which he 
has always taken a lively interest. This position he held during the 
years 1874, 1875 ^"'^ 1876. In 1876 he was elected as a Democrat to 
the Legislature over David W. Shurter (Rep.), and N. T. De Grafif 
( Pro), and served acceptably on the committees of railroads, villages 
and the library. He was re- elected to the Legislature in 1877. Increas- 
ing in popularity, his party nominated him four years after the close of 
his legislative term in 1882, for member of Congress from the Twentieth 
district, and though the district is a strong Republican one, he was 
triumphantly elected over Hon. George West, of Ballston, the Repub- 
lican candidate. 

His congressional record formed a bright page in his histor)', and 
demonstrated his capacity as a practical man, whose highest aim is not 
to serve party alone, but the country at large He served with credit 
on the committee on public buildings and grounds, and also on that of 
railroads and canals. He advocated the measures for securing better 
mail facilities, and took a leading part in the welfare of the veterans of 
the Union army, pushing forward a prompt settlement of their just 
claims. He also presented the measure of giving tlie president the 
power to veto separate objectionable items in appropriation bills with- 
out killing the whole bill. The justice of this congressional act must 
be apparent to all classes, irrespective of party. But one of the grand- 
est measures for which Mr. Wemple contended till it was successfully 
accomplished, was the securing of an appropriation to erect a noble 
monument at Schuylerville, to commemorate the glorious and decisive 



402 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

victory over the British on the ever memorable field of Saratoga. All 
patriotic citizens will ever join in honoring him for his works and labors 
of love in a cause so worthy and just Mr. Wemple has always been a 
strong friend of the Erie canal, and while in Congress he earnestly con- 
tended that the federal government should do its duty and provide for 
the maintenance and repair of the free artificial waterways of this State, 
which form an indispensable link in the chain of navigation from the 
great West to tidewater, just as it provides for the maintenance and re- 
pair of far less important free natural waterways in all sections of the 
country; and that without affecting in the least the jurisdiction of the 
State. 

Retiring from his congressional life with well-earned laurels, Mr. 
Wemple sought the quietude of his beautiful home at Fultonville, among 
the friends of his youthful days, and in the enjoyment of domestic 
scenes. But he was not long to remaim in the walks of private life. 
In 1885 hewas elected to the state senate from the 18th district, composed 
of the counties of Saratoga, Fulton, Hamilton and Schenectady. His 
opponent was the Hon. Austin A. Yates, and the contest was carried 
on with great determination on both side. Mr. Wemple won by a 
majority of twenty, and it was a striking instance of his remarkable pop- 
ularity among his friends and neighbors, that he should thus succeed 
in so strong a Republican district, and with so powerful an adversary 
as Judge Yates. As a state senator Mr. Wemple added additional 
lustre to his already well-established reputation as an able, upright and 
patriotic citizen. He took an active part in the leading measures which 
came before that body, and while he always endeavored to sustain the 
honor of his party, he at the same time tried to advance the interests of 
the commonwealth. 

In the fall of 1887 Mr. Wemple was nominated for state comptroller, 
and was elected by a majority of 15,374, the highest vote received by 
any candidate on the ticket, and entered upon his duties January i, 1888. 
The affairs of this high and responsible office were conducted by Mr. 
Wemple in a man-ner that reflected the highest credit. Since his retire- 
ment from this office in 1891, after four years of service, Mr. Wemple 
has passed the greater part of his time at his beautiful and historic 
home on the banks of the Mohawk at Fultonville. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 405 

The secret of Mr. Wemple's success as a politician lies in his broad 
intelligence, his exceptional executive ability and his strict integrity. 
He is regarded by his party as one who is always true to his political 
principles, strong in his conviction of duty, and an able exponent of the 
old Jeffersonian doctrines. As a man he is plain in manners, affable, 
and easily approachable, and popular wherever known for his geniality. 

Mr Wemple married Adelaide F. Groot, daughter of Simeon C. 
Groot of Schenectady. Her mother was of German ancestry, and her 
father of Dutch. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Wemple are Grace 
Adelaide, born August I2, 1869; Alice Maud, born June 6, 1871; 
Ralph Clancy, born December 2, 1872, died in infancy; and Edward 
Guy, born May 21, 1875, and now in the military school at Sing Sing. 



WHITE JOSEPH N.— The ancestry of Dr. White is traced back- 
to the early settlement of Worcester county, Mass. The town 
records of Mendon, in that county, show that in 1668, a vote was 
passed " to build a meeting house with all speed and to locate it near 
Joseph White's saw pit on the highest part of the land." In the follow- 
ing year the name is also found in an agreement settling the Rev. Mr. 
Emerson as minister in that town. Joseph White was a sergeant in 
the King Philip war, where he had charge of a garrison of soldiers. The 
record has not been traced continuously to the present time ; but 
we know that Jacob White was born August 10, 1754. His son, Joseph, 
was born April 8, 1785, and he was the father of Joseph N., the subject 
of this sketch. Joseph N. White was born in the town of Deerfield, 
Oneida county, N. Y., July 4, 1816, his father having located there 
previously. His mother was Lucy Parke, who was born in Norwich, 
Conn. He received an academical and classical education at the 
Holland Patent Academy, the Huron (O.) Institute and the Oberlin 
College. He studied medicine, beginning in 1849, under the supervis- 
ion of Drs. Taliaferro and Buckiier of Cincinnati, and was graduated 
from the Medical College of Ohio in 1854. During the period of his 
study he occupied the position of resident physician in a large private 
hospital maintained by his preceptors. Dr. White was induced to enter 
upon a careful and thorough investigation of the claims of homoeopathy 



404 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

through the influence of the late Dr. Pulte of Cincinnati, a well known 
medical author. The result was the adoption of that system and thence- 
forth he pursued it with characteristic energy and tenacity. 

In the spring of 1855 Dr. White settled in Amsterdam, where he 
soon gained an extensive practice. In early years the physicians who 
practiced in the homoeopathic school occupied a position professionally 
that was vastly different from their present standing, and Dr. White was 
the first to maintain in the courts the legal rights of physicians of that 
school, and in 1870, after ten years of litigation, secured a final and 
favorable decision in the Court of Appeals, which was cited in the courts 
of other states and reported in English and French journals. 

Dr. White became a member of the Alban}- County Homoeopathic 
Medical Society in 1867, and was elected its president in 1869, in 
which latter year he was also delegate to the American Institute of 
Homoeopathy. He was one of the founders of the Montgomery 
County HomcEopathic Medical Society (1869), having issued the call 
for its first meeting, and was one of its officers during most of the sub- 
sequent years until his death. He was also a member of the Medical 
Society of Northern New York and of the State Homoeopathic Society. 

Dr. White was an earnest Republican in politics, but not a partisan 
or a candidate for public office. His first vote was for Harrison in 
1840, and the last time he left his home was to vote at the city election 
in Amsterdam, when his son, E. P. White, was candidate for mayor. 

Such is a brief record of the career of Dr. White ; but it gives little 
indication of the prominent characteristics of the man. It may be said 
of him that he was one of those who seem to have been born with a 
natural aptitude for his profession, and such was his intense love for it 
that it was a delight to him wholly outside of personal gain through 
it. Indeed, so assiduous was he in its pursuit that he gave little time 
or attention to the financial aspect of it ; to him that was a mere inci- 
dental feature of his work. If patients paid him, it was well. If they 
did not; he was the last one to think that he ought to try and make 
them. From his standpoint, the patient without a dollar was of the 
same professional importance with the millionaire. A part of this char- 
acteristic may, perhaps, be credited to his broad charity ; but in his 
profession his first thought was ever to give relief, if possible. His last 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 405 

was that of how much he might gain thereby in material return. This 
brief estimate of his character may be very properly and truthfully con- 
cluded by adding what was written of him at the time of his death by 
one who knew him well : 

" It will be many days before a purer minded or more unselfish man 
passes away from Amsterdam. His life work was healing the sick, 
to which he gave a devotion beyond the thought of pecuniary reward. 
Early and late, among rich and poor alike, he ministered with gentle- 
ness and comforted with untiring skill. He loved children and they 
loved him, and many of them now grown up, with others whom he has 
benefited, are grateful to him. But beyond all other things he loved his 
family. For their welfare he hesitated at no self-sacrifice and he found 
his happiness in theirs." 

Dr. White was for many years a memberof the Presbyterian church, and 
his daily life was a never-failing evidence of his sincerity and faithfulness. 

Dr. White was twice married. At the age of twenty-four he married 
Sarah A. Maxwell, in Ripley, O., who lived only six months afterward. 
In May, 1855, he married Catharine J. Maxwell of Johnstown (not a 
relative of the first wife), who survives him. Mrs. White came from 
Johnstown to Amsterdam in 1854, as preceptress of a young ladies' 
private school, which she conducted with great success until her mar- 
riage, and for which labor she was eminently qualified. She is a woman 
of marked strength of character and intelligence, and has been active in 
local charities and the general well-being of the community. Her 
father, William Boyd Maxwell, was born at Philadelphia, Pa., the son 
of Cornelius Maxwell, who came from Edinburgh, Scotland, and joined 
the Continental forces in the Revolutionary war. Her maternal grand- 
father, Joel Manrow, v/as also a Scotchman and Revolutionary soldier. 
Her great-grandfather, Abram Poole, was the first of the family to set- 
tle in Amsterdam, having located on a farm about three miles east of 
the present city, and afterwards moved to Kingsboro, Fulton county. 

Dr. and Mrs. White had five children : William M., Edward P., 
Sarah E., Lucy M., and Joseph N., all of whom reside in Amsterdam. 
Dr. White had a younger brother, Moses White, who died September 
I, 1 89 1, at Cape Vincent, N. Y. 

Dr. White's death took place in Amsterdam on the 24th of April, 
1 8 go. 



406 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

PAWLING, HENRY, was born in what is now the town of Perth, 
Fulton county, on February 25, 181 1. His father was Levi Pawl- 
ing, who was born October 28, 17S3, and died November 7, 1846. He 
settled at Galway, Saratoga county, in 1836. Levi's children were Ann 
Dorothy, Joseph H., Margaret Eliza, Henry (our subject), John, Abra- 
ham, Francis, Myndert, Albert, Haskell L. and Sarah Jane. The an- 
cestry of the Pawlings was from Holland. 

Henry Pawling was educated in the public schools, and at the age of 
sixteen moved to Hagaman's Mills, where he worked for five years, 
learning the cloth maker's trade. When he had become proficient, he 
traveled through Massachusetts, working at his trade, and finally located 
in Galway, Saratoga count)', where he began the manufacture of his own 
goods, staying there about thirteen years. In 1S43 he again came to 
Hagaman's Mills, establishing the first woolen cloth factory here. From 
a small investment of about $500, the business grew under his manage- 
ment to huge proportions, making Mr. Pawling one of the most influen- 
tial citizens of the town of Amsterdam. His sons, William M. and H. 
H., were associated with him in the business, which was changed to knit 
goods in 1857, and when he retired the sons continued the business, 
which is now a large and prosperous industry. In 1836 Mr. Pawling 
married Margaret Van Derbogart of Jeflferson county, N. Y., and they 
became the parents of three children: William M., born in 1836; 
H. H., born in 1839; and Jennie M., now Mrs. Benjamin F. Herrick, 
born in 183S. 



BREEDON, WILLIAM, was born in Loughborough, Leicestershire, 
England, on the 23d of September, 1828. His father was William, 
also, a respectable mechanic, who died in his native place. His mother 
was Charlotte Powell of Leicestershire. They had eight children, three 
of whom were sons, who came to America in 185 1, two of them re- 
maining permanently. 

William Breedon was of course twenty- three years old when he 
reached Waterbury, Conn. He had already learned his trade as an 
operator and builder of knitting machinery by a service of seven 
years. His mechanical ability was in demand and he found employ- 
ment in Newark, N. J., where he remained until 1S56, going thence 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 407 

to Fitcliburg, Mass., where he worked until i860. His next place of 
employment was in Cohoes, N. Y., where he worked until the fall of 
1864, when became and settled permanently in Amsterdam. He first 
worked for William Stewart and Daniel Carmichael as superintendent 
of their knitting mill, a position for which he was eminently fitted by 
his long experience. His service in all of the places above mentioned 
had not been confined to any one branch of the business, but acting as 
superintendent much of the machine work, repairs, etc., had fallen to 
him to perform. He remained with Stewart & Carmichael until their 
mill was burned, when he began the manufacture of knitting kneedles, 
a field of work which he foresaw must inevitably become a broad one 
through the prospective growth of the manufacture of knit goods in 
this place. In this business he has continued ever since, his son, Albert 
William, now being associated with him. They manufacture only one 
kind of needles, known as spring needles, turning out approximately 
100,000 per week, many of them finding market in Amsterdam, while 
some are shipped to distant points. 

Mr. Breedon is a Republican in politics. He was chosen trustee of 
the village in 1877 and held the office for three years, during which time 
he evinced an active spirit and won the regard of his fellow members of 
the board. In March, 1 891, he was elected mayor of the city, which 
office he still holds by re-election. To the onerous duties of the high 
office Mr. Breedon gives freely of his time, and his natural qualifica- 
tions of good judgment and a broad comprehension of the city's needs, 
enable him to so conduct his administration as to please his constituents. 

Mr. Breedon was married in 1850 to Marj' Shingler, of Leicester- 
shire, England They have six children, one son and five daughters ; 
all the latter but one are married. The son married Mary Norton and 
has five children. The cares of the regular business are now almost 
wholly taken by the son, while Mr. Breedon gives considerable atten- 
tion to real estate which he has acquired and improved since about 1880. 



j-JOWARD, EBENEZER.— The ancestry of Ebenezer Howard is 
1 1 readily traced back through several generations and into the latter 
years of the last century, to Enos Howard, who lived and died in Du- 
anesburgh, Schoharie county, N. Y. There his son Samuel was born 



408 HISTORV OF MONTGOMERY COUN'TY. 

on the 13th of July, 1795. He mariied Marilla Hatch on November 
12, 18 14, and died on the 9th of March, 1857. Mrs. Howard was one 
of eight children, namely : Nathaniel, Orrin, Ephraim, Josiah, Ella, 
Cara, Lizzie and Marilla, and she was born on the 27th of January, 
1798, and died February 25, 1869. To Samuel and Marilla Howard 
were born five children, as follows : Ruby, born August 28, 181 5 ; mar- 
died David Griffith September 2, 1833, and died May 5, 1836, leaving 
a daughter, Susan, who married Richard Jameson, and now lives a wid- 
ow in Pennsylvania. 

Silas H., born October 6, 18 17, married Julia A. Avery October 25, 
1840; she died in 1881, and he resides at Fort Hunter, N. Y., where 
also live his sons, Ebenezer and Edward, and daughter Ruby ; his son 
William lives in Brooklyn and Avery in Virginia. 

George, born June 7, 18 19, married Charlotte Frazier January 
10, 1844, and died December 20, 1884. To them were born ten 
children, of whom there are living Charles Howard, of New York; 
Mary Foody, of Albany; and Mrs. Clara Johnson, of Fort Hunter. 

William T., born February 24, 1822, and died September 23, 1838. 

Ebenezer Howard, son of Samuel was born at Duanesburgh January 
I, 1827. He married Ellen Crane February 12, 1852, and died in Fort 
Hunter February 10, 1892. Mrs. Howard was born at Newburgh, 
Orange county, N. Y., May 16, 1832, and died at Fort Hunter Febru- 
ary II, 1892 ; she was a daughter of Jacob Crane, a teacher of mathe- 
matics of Newburgh, and had one brother, George Crane, of Australia, 
and one sister, Mrs. William Barnes, of Brooklyn. 

The- children of Mr. and Mrs. Ebenezer Howard were four, as follows: 
Frank H., born January 18, 1852, and Addie L., who both died in May, 
1854, of scarlet fever. George Anderson, born July 24, 1856, died at 
Hot Springs, Ark., April 30, 1891. Charles Louis Howard, born Octo- 
ber II, 1859, at Empire Lock, Fort Hunter, will be noticed a little fur- 
ther on. 

Ebenezer Howard was a man of much more than average business 
capacity, a strong character, and life principles that gave him a position 
of honor among his fellow citizens. With only ordinary opportunities 
for obtaining an education, he gained by observation and reading a fund 
of general information which his prudent and sound judgment enabled 



^J**^^ l^*v 




a^. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 409 

him to use to advantage in all the relations of life. In the year 1859 
he became associated with John D. Blood of Fort Hunter in the manu- 
facture of brooms in a small way. He carefully studied the business 
for many years and became thoroughly versed in its methods, quality 
of stock and the sale of the product. The factory was conducted with 
varying success until 1870, when Mr. Blood sold out his interest and 
removed to Amsterdam. Mr. Howard continued alone, enlarging and 
improving the business until I 873, when his factory was totally destroyed 
by fire. Owing to the unfortunate division of the insurance wiiich he 
carried, the loss was a severe one. But witli unfaltering courage he at 
once built and equipped the present brick factory and started with re- 
newed zeal. After a time he associated with himself his nephew, Avery 
Howard, and his two sons, George A. and Charles L., and the business 
was successfully conducted under the firm name of E. Howard & Sons, 
which name is still retained. During his long business career in Mont- 
gomery county Mr. Howard became a well-known figure in the commu- 
nity, and by his straightforward business methods and by his general 
worth as a man, gained the confidence and good will of all who knew 
him. At the organization of the Merchants' Bank of Amsterdam 
he was made a director, and at the time of his death held the same office 
in its successor, the Farmers' National Bank. He was also a director 
of the Fort Hunter Suspension Bridge. His public spirit led him to take 
an active interest in every project for the good of the place where he 
lived, and his efforts contributed largely to its growth and improvement. 
He was an honored and useful member of the Universalist church at 
Bramen's Corners and an earnest and efficient mover in the temperance 
cause and in the Methodist church of the village in which he lived. 
In politics he was a Republican, but his naturally retiring disposition 
and distaste for active partisanship led liim to decline public office. 
Generous in his nature his employees always found him their best friend, 
and the needy and worthy a sympathetic counselor and aid. At the 
time of his death the directors of the bank in which he was an officer 
adopted eulogistic resolutions, which said among other things : 

" Enthusiastic and tireless in his efforts to promote its usefiilness and 
prosperity, this bank is indebted to him in liberal measure for the con- 
fidence reposed in it, and for the success it lias achieved. His cool- 
5? 



410 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

judgment and sterling integrity inspired respect for all enterprises with 
which he was connected. He took a deep and active interest in public 
affairs, was ever ready to aid and advance the cause of moral and ma- 
terial progress, and his heart beat in sympathy with all movements de- 
signed to benefit his fellow men." 

By the death of Ebenezer and George A. Howard on the dates above 
given, and the withdrawal of Avery Howard, the business of manufac- 
turing brooms fell into the sole control of Charles L. Howard, who still 
conducts it. He inherits the excellent business qualifications of his 
father, while his long experience has given him a thorough knowledge 
of the requirements of the industry in which he is engaged. The fac- 
tory is now equipped with modern improvements, including electric 
light, and has an average capacity of 200 dozen per day. About sev- 
enty-five men are employed, and the product is second to none. 

Charles L Howard was married June 9, 1880, to Katie Horton 
Burtch, daughter of A. H. Burtch, of Fonda ; she was born January 21, 
i860, and received her education in the Fonda public schools and at 
Elmira Female College. They iiave four-children : Harry, Helen, Mabel 
and Ruth. 



SHANAHAN, JAMES.^ A state official whose long, industrious, 
persevering career in mechanical pursuits, and whose works in 
different parts of the country evince his superior powers as a master 
of his art is the Hon. James Shanahan, superintendent of public works 
of the state of New York. He belongs to a class of men whose talents 
and energy have advanced and enriched the interests of the empire 
state by the construction of works intimately connected with the rail- 
roads and canals, trade and commerce. 

He is a native of Ireland, and was born on the 6th of February, 1829, 
having now reached a period in life in which high purposes, aims and 
achievements are usually unfolded in full power. His ancestors were 
useful and substantial citizens of their country, and some of them held 
responsible positions. His father, having determined to seek his fortune 
in " the laud of the free," cast a lingering look on the home of his cliild- 

I The biography of James Shanahan, taken from the lives of noted Albanians and state officers 
by D. A. Harsha. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 411 

hood and then boldly sailed away with his family from the coasts of 
"old Erin" for American soil. His son James, the subject of this 
sketch, was then but eight years of age, and distinctly remembers the 
roar and tossings of old ocean during the voyage. On reaching this 
country the family first turned their faces westward, traveling into 
central New York and taking up their residence in the rich county of 
Onondaga. There for several years the elder Mr. Shanahan, who was 
not only an enterprising but industrious man, labored hard to earn a 
livelihood and to make provisions for his young family. And there 
James received a good common school education in the district school 
of his neighborhood. This course of elementary instruction he turned 
to practical account in later years. 

Learning of the great inducements held out for emigrants, to what 
was then regarded as the far west, Mr. Shanahan with his family set 
out, in 1844, in search of the rich and fertile prairie lands of Michigan, 
and after a slow and wearisome journey reached that state, settling on 
a. farm in the vicinity of Ann Arbor. James then was fifteen years of 
age, and for the two following years he assisted his father in preparing 
the new land for raising crops. But the monotonous pioneer life of a 
farmer in the solitudes of Michigan had not particular attractions for 
young Shanahan. He longed for another kind of work, to which his 
natural taste was inclining, and that was in the line of masonry. His 
father saw this ruling passion in his boy, and wisely consented that he 
should serve an apprenticeship in the stone-cutter's trade. He did so, 
and the step he then took he never afterwards regretted. An apt 
student in what he so much delighted, he soon mastered his trade ; and 
a few years later we find him assistant to an elder brother, who was 
then a large contractor in the building of locks on the Erie and Oswego 
canals Returning nearer the scenes of his more youthful days he be- 
came a studious and faithful assistant to his brother, under whose 
direction he may be said to have laid the foundation of his well-earned, 
high reputation as a master mechanic and engineer. With the knowl- 
edge and experience gained while with his brother he went to Lanes- 
boro, Penn., where he was employed in the construction of the viaduct 
on the Erie railroad. On the completion of this work he felt himself 
qualified to undertake the duties and responsibilities of a contractor; and 



412 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

to carry out his plans on a large scale he entered into partnership with 
his brother and two others. The new firm thus constituted was a strong 
one and soon engaged in various extensive works, among which was 
the building of a large portion of the masonry of the New York Central 
railroad between Syracuse and Rochester, and the masonry on the 
Oswego railroad. 

In 1854 Mr. Shanahan, whose reputation as a skilled mechanic 
was widely extended throughout the country, was engaged in the con- 
struction of the "locks" in the Sault St. Marie canal. The following 
year he removed to Tribes Hill, Montgomery county, N. Y., now his 
permanent residence, while he ably assisted in the construction of the 
locks at Waterford. 

His judgment in matters outside his occupation, but closely connected 
with it, was fully consulted by different parties, and in 1859 he was 
commissioned by the Dorchester Freestone Company to examine its 
quarry property at Dorchester, Province of New Brunswick. After 
giving the subject a careful investigation, a new quarry was opened 
there at his suggestion. In i860 he was placed in full charge of the 
property, with highly satisfactory results. A large quantity of the 
stone was shipped to New York city and sold at a handsome profit to 
the company, which, under his superintendency, was not obliged to as- 
sess itself to supply funds for carrying on its operations. In 1861 Mr. 
Shanahan was compelled to remain at home, and during that year the 
Freestone Company ran behind some $6,000 in its assets. His serv- 
ices were again sought after by the company, and upon its earnest request 
he resumed direction of the quarries, which, under his judicious manage- 
ment, were again worked with success and profit. The practical sug- 
gestions which he made, and the excellent judgment which he showed, 
both in masonry, quarry and engineering matters, was placing the 
name of Mr. Shanahan still more prominently before the public as a 
man of genuine merit and eminent skill. 

From 1864 to 1866, inclusively, he was engaged first in furnishing 
stone for the erection of the New York Central railroad elevator at 
Albany, and also for the first railroad bridge, called North bridge, and 
afterward in the construction of the dam at Cohoes, an immense struc- 
ture 1,400 feet long. This great work, so valuable to the Spindle City, 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 413 

was completed in the course of one season, and stands as a noble mon- 
ument to the skill of the builder. 

In 1868 Mr. Shanahan was appointed superintendent of section No. 
3 of the Erie canal, a position which he filled with honor and fidelity 
until his retirement from the office at the close of 1870. It may be 
stated in this connection, that Mr. Shanahan has always been a warm 
friend and advocate of our canals, and no official has ever watched over 
their affairs with more faithfulness or higher devotion. 

On relinquishing his oflSce as superintendent of the Erie canal Mr. 
Shanahan was inspired with a new ardor for his early cherished, regular 
occupation, the duties of which he now hastened to resume. One of 
his first contracts was for furnishing the stone for the new Hudson 
river bridge across the Hudson at the foot of Maiden Lane, Albany, 
constructed by the Hudson River Bridge Company. Subsequently he 
built the double tracks of the Hudson River railroad between Fort 
Plain and Little Falls, and furnished the stone for the section between 
Schenectady and Albany. The viaduct at Broadway, Albany, was 
successfully constructed by Mr. Shanahan in 1882. 

Though not a politician by profession, yet Mr. Shanahan has been 
called to serve the state in a legislative capacity. 

Regarding Mr. Shanahan's public life, we quote the following from 
the " Life Sketches of Assemblymen, 1870 " : 

"Montgomery county in 1868 elected a Republican Assemblyman 
by nearly two hundred majority. When last fall the Democrats of the 
Fifteenth Senatorial District had nominated Isaiah Blood for Senator 
against Truman G. Younglove it was known that a most desperate 
effort would be made to wrest this district, notwithstanding its two 
thousand majority, from the Republicans. To do this it was first of all 
necessary that the Democrats of each Assembly district should nomi- 
nate their strongest and most popular man. Nor were the Republicans 
ignorant of the nature of the contest in which they were entering and 
the necessity for a like care in the selection of their candidates. In 
Montgomery county the Democratic convention, having in view the 
necessity for the wisest action and the strongest possible jcandidate, 
nominated James Shanahan, of Tribes Hill. The result justified the 
selection. He received a majority of six hundred over his Republican 



414 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

competitor, changing tlie majority on the State ticket from two hun- 
dred RepubUcan (as it was in 1868) to nearly four liundred Democratic. 

" Mr. Shanahan is an effective worker, a man of cool judgment and 
remarkable energy ; a careful observer of men and things, and is pos 
sessed of untiring perseverance. 

"The estimate in which he is held in the House may be judged from 
the fact that although a new member he has been placed on two of the 
most important committees, viz. : the Committee on Canals and the 
Sub- Committee of the Whole. He is also a member of the Committee 
on Public Printing." 

For several years after the expiration of his legislative term Mr. 
Shanahan followed his regular business, until in 1878, when he was ap- 
pointed assistant superintendent of public works of the state of New 
York. In January, 1883, he was appointed by Governor Cleveland as 
head of the department, an appointment which people of both parties 
looked upon as one that would not have easily been improved. Now 
in his true element, perfectly at home in all the duties and obligations 
pertaining to his office — the right man in the right place — he still con- 
tinues to administer the public affairs in his department in an acceptable 
manner. In many respects Mr. Shanahan is a remarkable man. From his 
long experience in works of construction he has gained a perfect, practical 
knowledge of engineering as applied to practical construction ; and it is 
but just to say that he admirably fills the present important and respon- 
sible office. A man of great perseverance and energy as well as skill, 
he successfully infuses his spirit into his subordinates with the happiest 
results. Always busy, and at the same time cool, deliberate, thought- 
ful, he carries on the daily duties of his office in a thorough, systematic 
manner. 

Tall in person, with a plain open countenance, simple in his manners 
and agreeable in his conversation, he exhibits strong mental character- 
istics, especially in his chosen profession, without the least affectation, 
pride or vanity. 

In tracing his career from the time when, as a poor boy, he commenced 
his apprenticeship as a stone-cutter at Syracuse, and noticing the nu- 
merous and important works which he has since accomplished, one can 
not but be favorably impressed with his indefatigable industry and un- 




'i^-r^C^y 




BIOGRAPHICAL. 415 

yielding perseverance, his constant, earnest effort to rise higher in the 
knowledge of his calling, and above all his uncommon skill which en- 
abled him to successful!)' complete those works, causing his name to 
shine as a star of no small magnitude in the horizon of the mechanical 
world. 

He is now a member of the firm of Shanahan, Briggs & Company of 
Fonda, of the Starin Silk Fabric Company of Fultonville, a member of 
the contracting firm of Shanahan & Turner, a director in the Fulton- 
ville Bank, and is also president of Cajadutta Electric Railroad Com- 
pany. 

In October, 1854, Mr. Shanahan married Ellen, daughter of James 
and Ellen Maloy of Ann Arbor, Michigan. 



CASSIDY, DAVID DEMAREST, was born on the 6th day of 
April, 1827, in the town of Florida, Montgomery county, N. Y. 
His father, Christopher Cassidy, was born in the year 1796 and married 
Catharine Wemple, who was a native of the town of Florida. They 
had three children, two of whom died in infancy, leaving David D. as 
the only survivor. The elder Mr, Cassidy was a respected citizen of 
Florida and died at the earlj^ age of thirty-five years, when the subject 
of this sketch was only four years of age. His wife died in 1852. 

David D. Cassidy's boyhood was passed in his native town, where 
he attended the district schools He afterwards completed a fair Eng- 
lish education by a short term at the Poughkeepsie Collegiate School. 
Left almost wholly without means, the young man was thrown upon 
his own resources at an early age, and in 1844, when seventeen, found 
employment as a clerk in a dry goods store in Amsterdam, This occu- 
pation he followed faithfully for about four years, making his employ- 
ers' interests his own, industriously studying business methods and 
principles and practicing habits of prudence and economy, which served 
as a foundation for his after career. In 1849 he entered the Farmers' 
Bank of Amsterdam (now the Farmers' National Bank) as a clerk. 
This was the decisive step in his life-work. From the day he entered 
the bank until he left it, forty years later, Mr. Cassidy gave its welfare 
his contsant thought, his devoted energy and watchful care. Even in 



416 HISTORY OF MONTGONIERT COUNTY. 

his first humble position he saw that the exercise of the qualities which 
he felt that he possessed would doubtless enable him to rise to an hon- 
orable and fairly lucrative station, and he, therefore, determined that 
nothing should be left undone by him that might aid him to reach the 
top of the ladder as far as related to that institution. Through the 
various positions in the bank he steadily rose — clerk, bookkeeper, 
teller, assistant cashier and director, until in 1859, after ten \'ears of 
faithful service, he was placed in the position of cashier, a position 
which in country banks and banks in small cities, is the chief executive 
office of the institution. He had now reached the highest goal as 
viewed by him, for although he was in after years repeatedly asked to 
accept the presidency of the bank, he rightly understood that such a 
step was a downward one, except in a purely honorary sense. As cash- 
ier he was practically master, and that was what he had been and wished 
to continue to be. 

For thirty years with scarcely an intermission, and with none at all 
of more than a few days each, Mr. Cassidy held the reins of this finan- 
cial institution, and by his constant presence, watchfulness, sound judg- 
ment as to important acts, and tireless zeal for its general welfare, he 
made it one of the largest and most prosperous banks in the interior of 
the state. 

The reader need not be told that the foregoing is an honorable as 
well as a successful business record. Its parallel for long continued and 
successful service is not often met with, and in this instance its results 
gave Mr. Cassidy a position in the confidence and respect of his fellow 
citizens that is most enviable. Never, from the time he entered the 
bank as clerk until his retirement, was he asked by the directors for a 
bond of any description — a fact almost unprecedented in similar institu- 
tions. Such was the widely known watchfulness with which he guarded 
the interests of the bank that on several occasions desperate burglars, 
after their capture, acknowledged that their contemplated efforts to rob 
its vaults were abandoned. Mr. Cassidy now fills the office of trustee 
of the Amsterdam Academy, and has been a director and treasurer of 
the Chuctenunda Gas Light Companj' since 1878. Upon his retire- 
ment from the cashiership of the bank the local press found occasion to 
speak in high terms of his career. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 4ir 

Said one paper : " As cashier and chief executive officer of the Farm- 
ers' National Bank he passed in and out of its doors for thirty years, 
and during that time, by industry and tact, he lifted the stock from par 
value in 1859 to two hundred and fifty in 1889, besides paying regular 
dividends of from ten to fifteen per cent, per annum. The bank build- 
ing itself was erected by him and is still the finest structure of its kind 
in town. A man of thoughtful turn and an economist of time, he min- 
gles in society but little, except as business requires, his leisure being 
spent at home, at his desk, or among his books. And yet he is pre- 
eminently social in his temperament. On questions of finance he is 
particularly at home." Another paper said : " In the discharge of his 
duties he has been tireless in his industry and unceasing in his vigilance. 
In the storms of financial depression, both local and in the country at 
large, the bank has stood firm as a rock. Its successful career and 
present solid condition are the work of a lifetime. Mr. Cassidy has a 
right to be proud of the results which he has achieved." 

Upon the completion of the bank building, which was erected en- 
tirely under his supervision, the directors recognized his faithfulness 
and services in a set of resolutions expressing their appreciation of the 
same and tendered him, as a substantial token of their gratification, a 
present of one thousand dollars 

Since his retirement from the bank Mr. Cassidy has given his attention 
to the improvement of his real estate in Amsterdam, of v\'hich he is a 
large owner. The new Cassidy block on East Main street has very re- 
cently been erected and adds much to the beauty and prosperous as- 
pect of that part of the city, while his conspicuous and handsome resi- 
dence on the highlands has been much improved and enlarged. 

Contrary to the often found conditions, Mr. Cassidy 's unremitting 
attention to business through a long period of years has not shut him 
off from the other pursuits which go so far to make life worth living. 
Though unable to give much attention to purely social affairs, he has 
found opportunity to enrich his mind by extensive reading, and to grat- 
ify his natural love for the beautiful in nature and art. His fund of in- 
formation obtained by reading and close observation is a rich one, es- 
pecially upon matters of finance and political economy. His ability to 
clearly express his opinions, and his naturally genial temperament, make 
him always a welcome companion. 

53 



418 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

On April 17, 1866, Mr. Cassidy married Mrs. Catharine M. Efner, 
second daughter of Peter H. Clute, of Rochester, N. Y. They have 
two children, a daughter, Belle, born January 12, 1869, and a son, David 
D., jr., born October 23, 1871, now a student in Harvard University. 



KELLOGG, DAYTON SMITH, was born in Cornwall, Litchfield 
county. Conn., and is the youngest son of John and Polly (Clark) 
Kellogg. For several years he received private instruction from Rev. 
Herman Daggett, formerly principal of the Foreign Mission School at 
Cornwall. This school was founded by the American Board of Foreign 
Missions for the purpose of educating missionaries for the foreign field. 
The first missionaries to the Sandwich Islands were educated there. He 
afterwards attended the Cornwall Seminary, which for years was in 
charge of the Rev. E. W. Andrews, who afterward became pastor of the 
Broadway Tabernacle, New York. Graduating from this school, he be- 
came a teacher, and was for two years principal of Union Academy, 
Springfield, N. J. He then went to New York and studied dentistry with 
several of the most eminent dentists of the country, including Drs. Har- 
vey and John Burdell, and Solyman and Augustus Brown. In 1845 he 
came to Fort Plain to visit his friend, Rev. Thomas Armitage, who was 
then in charge of the Methodist church of Fort Plain, and was induced 
to settle there and open a dental office. He at once acquired a very 
lucrative and successful practice which has continued to the present time. 
He was the first resident dentist in that section of the Mohawk valley. 
In 1854 he became editor and proprietor of the Mohawk Valley Regis- 
ter, which he conducted as an independent journal for several years. 
In 1880 he inaugurated an enterprise which was instrumental in giving 
to Fort Plain a large number of its most elegant residences. By cutting 
a street along the face of Prospect Hill, at a great expenditure of labor 
and capital, and the bridging of Otsquago creek at the foot of Centre 
street, he made this beautiful eminence (which overlooks the most beau- 
tiful portion of the Mohawk valley) accessible and very desirable for resi- 
dences. Dr. Kellogg is of the eighth generation from Lieutenant Sam- 
uel Kellogg, one of the brothers who emigrated from England in 164O. 
Joseph Kellogg settled in Hadley, Mass. ; Daniel in Norwalk, Conn. ; 




^4^^^/^ 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 419 

and Samuel in Hatfield, Mass. The late Loyal C. Kellogg, for thirteen 
years chief justice of Vermont, Gov. William Pitt Kellogg and Clara 
Louise Kellogg are descendants of the same branch. Judah Kellogg 
who graduated from Yale College in 1763, and who for thirty- two years 
was in public life, was the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, as 
he was also of the late Judge Frederick Kellogg, wiio died at Cornwall 
in August, 1 891, in his ninetieth year, after long service of the public 
in various capacities. The offices of probate judge and court of record 
have been in the Kellogg family for more than one hundred years, and 
are still held by Philo Kellogg of Cornwall. John Kellogg, the father 
of the subject of this sketch, was an old school Democrat, and was one 
of the seven in the town who stood together on political questions for 
several years under the "stand up" law of Connecticut. Dr. Kellogg 
married Hannah, daughter of David and Mary Waddell of Mariaville, 
N. Y. Mrs. Kellogg died August 7, 1890. Their only child, Wil- 
lie Waddell Kellogg, died November 2, 1867, less than two years of 
age. 

The following sketch of the life of Mrs. Kellogg is contributed for this 
vfcfork : Sprung from a noble race and nation, eminent as a witness- 
bearer for God's truth, and conspicuously bringing forth the fruits there- 
of, she proved true to her favored lineage, and very successfully ex- 
emplified its sturdy virtues all along the path of her useful life. She 
was by no means one to be "blown about by winds of contrary doc- 
trines," nor to be " moved from the hope of the Gospel," however to 
other people might appear its air and aspect. She was never disposed 
to " follow a multitude to do evil," but, on the contrary, if ever occasion 
ofifered, she was, like the Abdiel of the poet, "faithful among the faithless 
found." 

Her mental capabilities were of a superior order, which ltd her to 
be always best pleased with the purest literature, as well as with the 
soundest sentiments She was no butterfly connoisseur of letters ; and 
will ever be recalled with marked pleasure and the highest respect by 
such as were privileged with the teachings of her earlier years, or by 
social and conversational intercourse with her in her subsequent life. 
She possessed a vigor of mind that lifted her far above the vulgarly 
ascribed " weakness of womanhood," and that made her a fit companion 



420 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

of the other sex. She could hardly be classed with Milton's " Fair de- 
fects of nature." 

" She showed thai lier soft sex contains strong minds, 
Such as evaporate through the course wall ; 
As through coarse stone elixir passage finds, 
Which scarce through finer crystal can exhale." 

As to her more directly personal and domestic traits, more private 
and sacred in their sphere, centering about friends, kindred and home, 
those only could do her strict justice who lived with her the more 
closely, and were the unavoidable observers of her hourly steps. It 
would be a manifest indelicacy in a non-relative to enlarge much here. 
Suffice it for one who was her critical pastor, to give in his testimony 
to her kindness and fidelity as a parishioner ; to her known hospitality 
and courtesy to all ; to her perfect simplicity and transparency of gen- 
eral character ; to her uniform womanly dignity of demeanor, and to 
her ardent and untiring concern for the welfare of the whole human 
race to which she belonged. Her piety, the crowning glory of any life, 
I think no one ever questioned. The evidences of it were too numer- 
ous, and too emphatic, for that. Her " citizenship " was clearly on 
high. 

■' There was a light around her brow, 

A holiness in her earnest eye. 

Which show'd, — though wandering earthward now, — 

Her spirit's home was in the skies." 

Hannah Waddell was the daughter of David and Mary Waddell of 
Mariaville, Schenectady county, N. Y. In her early childhood she 
evinced a precocious intellect, a love of learning, a great fondness for 
books, and eargerly read everything that came in her way. When she 
was eight years old she had read Shakespeare's plays, and her frequent 
and copious quotations from them in after years, showed how well she 
comprehended them. She was also in her childhood a Bible student, 
and committed to memory most of the Psalms. Before she was fifteen 
she was familiar with the English classics, and her love of poetry made 
her acquainted with all that came within her reach. At this age also 
she had studied carefully the higher English branches, algebra, geom- 
etry, physiology, natural philosophy and chemistry. Soon after she 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 421 

entered the State Normal School at Albany where she graduated with 
honors, being chosen to write the " Parting Song " at the close of the 
year. She afterwards entered Mrs. Willard's renowned school at Troy, 
N. Y., but her health failing she was obliged to relinquish her studies 
for a time, but at the opening of Fort Plain Seminary and Female Col- 
legiate Institute under the principalship of the Rev. Dr. King, now of 
the Fort Edward Institute, she was one of the first of the 513 students 
who registered there at the opening of the first term. At the close of 
the first collegiate year she was the first and only graduate. It was not 
in her thoughts to become a teacher, but the faculty and trustees had 
formed so high an estimate of her acquirements and capabilities that 
they made overtures to her, and finally persuaded her to accept a posi- 
tion as teacher of higher English. She was afterwards induced to ac- 
cept the preceptresship under the Rev. Dr. J. E. Latimer, who subse- 
quently became Dean of the School of Theology in Boston Unfversity. 
She numbered among her associate literary colleagues some of the fore- 
most scholars and workers of the day — Dr. Joseph E. King of Fort 
Edward Institute, Rev. Dr. James King of N. Y., Dr. J. E. Latimer, 
Dean of the School of Theolgy of the Boston University, Prof G. F. 
Comfort of the Syracuse University, Dr. Flack of Claverack Institute, 
Prof W. H. Bannister of the Nyack Institute, Mrs. J. E. Latimer, and 
Miss Ensign, now Mrs. Bishop J. P. Newman. 

In 1858 she was married to Dr. D. S. Kellogg of Fort Plain, N. Y. 
Her literary labors had been too arduous for a naturally slender frame, 
and she settled down to a quiet home life, hoping in time to be suffi- 
ciently restored to engage in literary work. Her friends had hoped to 
see volumes from her pen which she wielded so readily, strongly and 
beautifully. But her nervous system never recovered its tone, especially 
after the painful sickness and death of the wonderfully precocious and 
lovely Willie Waddell Kellogg, their only child ; and she was compelled 
to limit her work to correspondence with her large circle of literary 
friends, and occasional translations from the French for the press. She 
had a poetical mind, and often, in her school days, indulged in flights of 
imagination which found ready acceptance in the local press and in the 
magazines. 

The Waddells were of illustrious descent, coming from one of the old 
and notable families of Europe. Captain John Waddell, for remarkable 



HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 



prowess and important military services rendered the crown, received 
the arms and crest in 1627. The explanation of the armorial bearings 
with the account of the achievements for which they were given, will 
be best conveyed by a transcription from the original in the Herald's 
College in London. It is reproduced verbatim et literatim. 

In the heraldic engraving the different colors which belong to armo- 
rial bearings are represented by lines, dots, and plain surfaces. Thus, 
Or (gold), is indicated by a field covered with dots ; Argent (silver), by 
a plain field ; Gules (red), by perpendicular lines ; Azure (blue), by 
horizontal lines; Sable (black), by perpendicular and horizontal lines 
crossing each other ; Murrey (orange), by diagonal lines intersecting 
each other. 

To all and singular, as well nobles and gentiles as others to whom this present- 
writing shall come, William Segar, alias Garter, principall King of Arms of English- 
men, seadeth greeting in our Lord God everlasting — Whereas antiently from the begin- 
ning the valliant and Virteous acts of worthy men have been commended to the world 
with sundry monuments and remembrances of their 
good deserts, amongst wch. the chiefest and most 
usual! hath been ye bearing of Signes and tokens in 
Shields commonly called Arms, wch. are evident dem- 
onstrations of prowesse and vallour diversly distrib- 
uted according to ye quality and deserts of the Per- 
sons meriting ye same, which order as it was most 
prudently devised in the begining to stir and kindle 
ye hearts of men to ye imitation of like noblenesse 
and virtue, even so hath ye same been and yet is con- 
tinually observed, to ye end, that such as have done 
"Y/ commendable service to their Prince or countrye, 
either in Warre or Peace, by Sea or by Land, may 
receive due honor in their lives, and also derive ye ' 
same successively to theire Posterity after their 
Deaths forever. In wch. re.spect — Whereas John 
Weddall of Steben heath in ye County of Middlesex, 
Esqr. now Gaptn. of ye Rainbowe a principall Ship of 
his ma'ties Navie Royall, designed in this p'sent Voy- 
age and Imployment, 1627; hath by Sufficient Testi- 
monie made it appear unto mee, that to ye Hon : of his 
Prince and Countrye, the di.scharge of the trust re- 
posed in him, and ye great benefite to this Our King- 
dome; exercising trade and tratfique in those remote parts of the world ; He valiantly 
attempted the takeing of the Castle of Ketchraey, a place of great importance within 
the Gulfe of Persego ; wherein it pleased God to make him victorious and to his great 





BIOGRAPHICAL. 423 

honor to take Prisoner Rufero Don Batho Capt. of ye Castle and General of the Sea 
Forces then in open Hostility against the King of Englands subjects; and such Protest- 
ants as were in Amity with him. And having achieved the Victory placed ye English 
colors upon the said Castle, carefully providing by conditions with the Duke of Seras, 
that the same should continue so far subjected to ye King of England, as was by ye 
said conditions provided and that signall of Our Nation to remain there. 

After going forward in this Lawdable maner, being againe designed for farther service 
in the.'e Regions; he most prudently with great Resolution and Judgment attempted 
the conquest of Castle and City of Ormons ; a place of Renowne and consequence ; and 
after 10 weeks siege haveing m ye prosecution of ye said Achion, by Sea as well as 
Land, burnt and sunk four Gallions of great Force ; whereof Don Rufero before men- 
tioned was General! ; he obtained ye Victory ; wch. he carried wth great moderation 
and mercy, setting at liberty and giving conduct and passage to other parts, where they 
might find reception ; to about four thousand Christian Soules, enemies to the English, 
that retired into ye said Castle of Ormons for their last refuge; and so established the 
benefit of that Victory ; that his Ma'ties Subjects, wch. by his gracious Charter have 
sole Trade there, receive the moyety of the Tribute and customes of that place. 

Wherefore I ye said Garter could doe no lesse being thereunto instantly required by 
ye said .John Waddall, but assigne invest and arme him with sucli a Coat of Arms as is 
convenient to his degree and good deservings. 

The field argent; an innschtcueon barnly wavy of ten or and gules; an Oile of Fire- 
balls proper ; as in perpeotuall remembrance of his atchievements in sinking and burn- 
ing of his enemies. And further for Ornament unto hisHealnie, for a convenient Crest 
and Cognizance to him and his posterity; on a Wreath of his Colours Or and Gules; 
out of the Battlements of a Castle azure; a demy Lyon Or ; holding a Banner of St. 
George, to denote his good service in surprizing the Castle of Viechmey, and planting 
ye English Colours thereon. 

All which Arms and Crest and every ])'t andp'cell thereof, lye said Garter by power 
of my Office of Garter Prin'll K. of Arms, authoured by ye institution of ye noble order 
of the Garter to grant these marks of Honor and Noblenesse to deserving men. Doe by 
these p'sents give, grant, ratifie and confirme unto ye said Job: Weddall and his Pos- 
teritie; with their due differences forever ; that he and they the same may use beare 
and .shew forth, in Shield, Signet, Monument, Escutcheon, Penon, and Atchevm't; or 
any other Wayes or Means according to the Law of Arms and lawdable customs of this 
Realm of England ; without lett or interruption of any whatsoever. 

In Witnesse whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal of Office May .' Ao 1627 
Annog. Regni Regis Caroli tertio, etc. 

Wm. Sbgar Garter. 

A branch of the Waddell family came to the United States in the 
early history of this country. James Waddell, the famous " Blind 
Preacher," came over in 1739. Wm. Wirt says of him, to his biographer, 
Dr. James W. Alexander, " That the description given of his eloquence 
had fallen far below the truth. In person he was tall and erect, his 



424 HISTORY OF NrOXTGOMERY COUNTY. 

mien was unusually dignified and his manners graceful and eloquent. 
Under his preaching audiences were irresistibly moved, like the wind 
shaken forest." President James Madison said " He has spoiled me 
for any other preaching." " Patrick Henry classed him with Samuel 
Davis, as one of the greatest orators he had ever heard." It was he 
who made the memorable allusion to our Saviour, so often quoted, 
" Socrates died like a man but Jesus Christ died like a God." Rev. 
Moses Waddell established a classical school in Charleston, S. C, and 
among his pupils were Hugh S. Legare, John C. Calhoun and James L. 
Petigru. As an instructor, Dr. Waddell was one of the most popular 
and successful men of his day. Alexander H. Stevens says of him, " In 
his insight into the character of students, the constitution of their minds, 
their capacities, capabilities and aptitudes, and in drawing out and de- 
veloping, by proper training, discipline and government, he had few if 
any equals." His first wife was a sister of John C. Calhoun. His son 
James graduatedat the University of Georgia in 1822, and filled the chair 
of Latin and Greek till 1856. John Newton Waddell graduated at the 
University of Georgia and entered the ministry in 1841. He filled the 
chair of Latin and Greek in the University of Mississippi for nine years, 
and in the Lagrange College till 1866. The University of Nashville 
gave him the degree of D. D. in 1851, and the University of Georgia 
that of LL. D. in 1873. 

Captain Waddell's son, William, was among the prominent merchants 
of New York in 1773, and alderman of the city. His grandson, Cov- 
entry, was a cousin of the Earl of Coventry, who was the head of the 
ancestral house. He at one time headed the list of real estate owners 
in the city of New York, and occupied a handsome residence on Fifth 
avenue, that was known as Waddell's castle. 

Through intimate relations with Andrew Jackson he became the 
president's private secretary and subsequently United States marshal 
for the northern district of New York. And his friendship with Martin 
Van Buren secured him an important appointment. A notable fact in 
his history was the holding of an office for over forty years, that of 
registry of bankruptcy. 

The Waddells in those earl)' days took a conspicuous part in social 
and fashionable society. The members attended Trinitj' church, and 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 42& 

their family vault is over two hundred years old. They owned a farm 
in the vicinity of where Canal street now is, and at one time owned 
what was known as " Murray Hill Farm." One of the sons was a col- 
onel in the war of the rebellion, and was provost marshal of Vicksburg. 
Another son was an officer under P'arragut when he ran past the batter- 
ies of Vicksburg. James Iredell Waddeil, the famous commander of 
the Shenandoah, was born in North Carolina in 1824. His history is 
too well known to need repeating. 

Mrs. Kellogg was equally illustiious on her mother's side, being de- 
scended from the family of Scotland's world-renowned poet, Robert 
Burns, and also in a direct line from the Fletchers. She was naturally 
reserved with strangers, not easily approached until well acquainted, 
but most genial and kind with all classes, very gifted in conversation, 
having a remarkably retentive memory, keeping pace with the evcnt-^ 
of the day, well versed in the political affairs of our country as well as 
those of the old world. The names and history of the reigning sover- 
eigns of Europe with their general characteristics, their intermarriages 
with the sovereigns of different nations were perfectly familiar to her. 
Persons acquainted with her will readily recognize very many of the 
qualities and characteristics and traits of character described in«the fore 
going sketches of the Waddeil families. She was tall and erect with 
a massive head, a large, keen and penetrating eye, before which, with 
its steady, unwavering gaze those older than herself would quail. She 
answers well to the character given by Alexander Stevens to Dr Moses 
Waddeil. She was possessed of a resolution, a firmness and decision of 
character, which, under like circumstances, would, with Ridley and 
Latimer, have welcomed the stake. No influence could have been ex- 
erted to swerve her from what she conceived to be right. She had the 
abilities, the quickness of perception, the intuitive knowledge of human 
nature and breadtii of judgment which, had she been a lawyer, would 
have made her a Daniel Webster ; or had she been on the bench a 
Taney ; on the battlefield a Napoleon, or in the pulpit a Beecher or 
Spurgeon. But she was greater than all these, she was a true and de- 
voted wife, a fond and loving mother, a constant friend, a sincere, in- 
telligent, devout Christian, kind and gentle, charitable to the poor — in 
truth a grand and noble character. She went down to the grave with 



426 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

an unfaltering trust in God, loved, revered and lamented by all who 
knew her, her only sorrow and regret being the grief and loneliness of 
those she left behind. 



KLINE, WILLIAM J., editor and publisher of the Amsterdam 
daily and weekly Democrat, was born in Fultonville, Montgomery 
county, N. Y., on the 7th of November, 1848. After the completion 
of his studies in the district schools, the Johnstown Academy, and 
Prof Collins' private school in Albany, he entered Union College and 
graduated with honor in 1872. The following jear he spent in the 
office of John H. Starin, in New York city, and then came to Amster- 
dam and purchased the Weekly Democrat office of Ashe & Matthewson. 
The paper felt the influence of his ability as a writer and manager from 
the first, and its prosperity warranted him in 1879 in starting the daily 
edition. Republican in politics and conducted on a vigorous policy, 
the journal has constantly grown in influence and favor and has long 
been recognized^as one of the ablest Republican organs in the interior 
of the State. Mr. Kline is a fluent writer of a strong practical tendency 
and has won the approbation of the community by his honorable con- 
duct of his paper. 



LYNK, M., editor and business manager for the Recorder Publishing 
^ Company of Amsterdam, was born in the town of Cherry Valley, 
Otsego county, N. Y., on December 24, 1853. His opportunities for 
obtaining an education were limited to the district schools, and at the 
age of sixteen years he came with his parents to Amsterdam, where he 
entered the Recorder office as an apprentice and devoted the ensuing 
ten years to thoroughly learning the art of printing. He then left the 
office and shared in starting the Amsterdam Sentinel with Thomas 
McNally. Eight months later he sold out his interest and about two 
years thereafter purchased the Fort Plain Standard. This journal he 
conducted successfully for ten years, when in the fall of 1889 he 
returned to Amsterdam and established a job printing office. On the 
1st of February, 1892, he bought an interest in the Daily Reco7der 
with E. H. Finlayson. The latter soon left the firm, and on the ist of 




'"7///^/// 



BIOGRAPHICAL 427 

September, 1892, Mr. Lynk organized the Recorder Publishing Com- 
pany and assumed his present position. The Daily Recorder was 
founded in 1881. Formerly a Repiiblican organ, its politics was 
changed to Democratic, February r, when Mr. Lynk came into the 
firm. Mr. Lynk is a writer of fine ability and is thoroughly energetic 
and enterprising in the business conduct of the establishment. The 
Recorder enjoys an encouraging and increasing circulation and wields 
an influence in local politics. 



SANFORD FAMILY, THE. — No name, perhaps, is more closely 
interwoven with the history of Amsterdam and more fully identi- 
fied with its upbuilding than that of Sanford. Coming here when the 
place was a hamlet, the pioneer and the several descendants have not 
only witnessed every stage of development in village and city, but have 
been important, stirring factors in its growth, both materially and 
socially. 

John Sanford came to Amsterdam more than seventy years ago (1821) 
from Roxbury, Conn., endowed with a good education and an ample 
store of energy and determination to advance in life. He first found 
employment in teaching school, which he followed a few terms here and 
afterwards in Mayfield, where he also carried on a small mercantile 
business. Returning to Amsterdam, he opened a store and in a few 
years was among the foremost of the place He continued this business 
until 1840. Meanwhile his fitness fur the duties of public life had been 
fully demonstrated to his fellow citizens and in 1840 he was elected to 
Congress in the Harrison campaign. He served in that body only one 
term, but with entire acceptance to his constituents. Returning to 
Amsterdam, he commenced the foundations of what is now one of the 
largest manufacturing industries in the Empire State — the making of car 
pets. This business, in a somewhat incipient condition, he brought here, 
with those who had been conducting it, from elsewhere, and about the 
year 1842 the first product was ready for the market. Into this industry 
he threw his whole energies and in a few year^ made it one of the most 
important in the place. Unfortunately the factory was burned in the year 
1853. Mr. Sanford then retired from active life. His death occurred 
in 1857. He left a marked impression upon Amsterdam, and his pub- 
lic spirit was felt in all the aspects of its growth and welfare. 



428 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

V^ ANFORD, STEPHEN, son of John, was born in the town of 
^ ) May field, in what is now Fulton county, May 26, 1826. Believ- 
ing fully in the benefits of education, his father placed him, after the cus- 
tomary period in the district school, in the academy at Amsterdam. 
Subsequently he attended for two and a half years at the Georgetown 
College, D. C, and then entered the military school at West Point. 
After availing himself of the systematic study and discipline in that 
famous institution, Mr. Sanford felt that it was obligatory upon him to 
return home and share with his father the cares of a growing business. 
Accordingly in 1844 he entered the carpet manufactory, took up the 
practical work from the very beginning, and when he was made a part- 
ner in the mill he was a thorough master of every detail of the bu.siness 
of carpet manufacturing from the raw material to the finished product. 
The copartnership dated from 1848. When his father retired from the 
business the son purchased his interest, which then consisted of very lit- 
tle else than the ruins of the burned mills. But enough had been done 
l)revious to that to convince Stephen Sanford that, with his practical 
knowledge and self-confidence in his ability to conduct a large indus- 
try, he could build up a business which would be a substantial addition 
to the village of Amsterdam as well as of material benefit to himself. He 
built a mill on the burned site and renewed the business in a small way, 
but with marked success from the start. This is not the proper place to 
follow in detail the gradual but steady growth of this great industry, 
and it will suffice to note that every building'in the now enormous plant 
in which are employed about 2,500 hands and from which are turned 
out annually a product of more than $3,000,000, has been erected and 
furnished with machinery by Stephen Sanford and under his personal 
supervision. In the accomplishment of this vast work the traits of char- 
acter with which Mr. Sanford is endowed — industry, perseverance, in- 
tegrity and wonderful self-reliance — combined with his practical knowl- 
edge, have contributed; and to these qualities must be added his very 
exceptional executive ability and his capacity for grasping large under- 
takings and seeing their end from the beginning. He is a remarkably 
accurate judge of human nature, seldom mistakes the character and 
motives of men, and hence has been able to surround himself with em- 
ployees of all grades who feel a personal interest in the advancement of 
his projects and feel respect and admiration for him as a man. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 429 

In politics Mr. Sanford is a Republican and has been unswerving in 
his allegiance to that organization. Possessed of broad ideas on most 
subjects, a deep thinker upon all practical problems and political econ- 
omy, his counsel has been much sought, and had he so desired he could 
have held numerous conspicuous positions in the gift of the people. Only- 
one political office has he consented to accept — that of congressman in 
1868. He served faithfully and ably one term and declined a renomi- 
nation, largely on account of the demands made upon him by his exten- 
sive business interests. He has been frequently called to positions of 
responsibility and trust by his immediate fellow citizens, and in his con- 
nection therewith has served their interests faithfully and honorably. 
He was a member of the Electoral College that gave New York State 
to U, S. Grant, and was a member of the National Convention in 1876. 
He was for many years a director in the Farmer's Bank; by his energy 
and interest it may be said, he created, and became president of the 
Amsterdam Reservoir Company, through which a thousand acres have 
been flooded by the waters of Chuctenunda creek, supplying an immense 
water power for his own and other manufactories. He has been presi- 
dent of the Amsterdam Academy, president of the Gaslight Company, 
president of the Cemetery Association, founder and is president of the 
Amsterdam City Bank and erected the handsome block in which it 
carries on its business. He has also built several other handsome 
blocks in the city. He is president of the Montgomery County Agri- 
cultural Society, etc. 

The position occupied by Mr. Sanford in the business and social life 
of Amsterdam may be readily inferred from the foregoing. In the 
prosecution of all large public undertakings he is appealed to for his 
sound judgment, wise counsel and material aid, all of which are freely 
given. Prompt and outspoken by whomsoever addressed ; quick to 
arrive at conclusions and fearless in their support, he is still courteous 
at all times, and genial and warm-hearted with those who enjoy his 
friendship. 

Mr. Sanford was married on the 12th day of December, 1849, to 
Sarah Jane Cochran. They have had five sons, two of whom, John and 
William, are living. The eldest is John Sanford, now member of Con- 
gress from his district. Both of them are associated with their father 
in his business. 



430 HrSTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

SANF"ORD, JOHN, manufacturer and congressman, was born at 
Amsterdam, N. Y., January i8, 185 i. He attended the district 
school, and afterward the Amsterdam Academy. In 1865 he entered 
the Poiighkeepsie Military Institute, and remained there until 1868, at 
which time he entered Yale College, from which he graduated in 1872, 
with honor. Immediately after his graduation he entered his father's 
carpet mills at Amsterdam (which were established by his grandfather 
in 1840), and, taking a subordinate position, worked himself up in the 
various departments, until, after years of faithful service, he was ad- 
mitted as a member of the firm. 

In the fall of 1888 he became the nominee of the Republican party 
for Representative in Congress from the Twentieth Congressional dis- 
trict, comprising the counties of Montgomery, Schenectady, Fulton, 
Hamilton and Saratoga. This district was more generally known as 
the " Saratoga district." The number and importance of its manufac- 
turing industries (comprising gloves, knitted goods, carpets, locomo- 
tives, paper and pulp, linseed oil, etc.), representing a total annual 
product of over thirty millions of dollars, naturally made it a center of 
interest in the great political battle for the supremacy of the policy of 
protection for American industries, which was the central plank of the 
Republican platform that year. As the chosen advocate and leader of 
these oreat industrial interests and the thousands of operatives depend- 
ent upon them for employment, his campaign was aggressive, and his 
speeches on the stump demonstrated his earnestness and ability as a 
champion*of the protective policy. He was elected by 3,300 pluraHty 
over Judge Zerah S. Westbrook, the Democratic nominee. The total 
vote polled was 45,932, of which he received 23,966 — 52 per cent. 

His term as congressman began March 4, 1889, and he took his seat 
in the House of Representatives at the opening of the Fifty-first Con- 
gress December 2, 1889, and was made a member of the committee, on 
manufactures, the committee on the library and the committee on reform 
in the civil service. During this first session of his service, he took an 
active part in the work of framing the McKinley bill, and, by reason of 
his business training and familiarity with the varied industries of his 
district, was able to render valuable assistance to the committee on ways 
and means, by whom he was selected for the delicate and difficult task 



BIOGRAriltCAL. 431 

of reconciling the conflicting interests of the woolen-manufacturers and 
the wool -growers, in the matter of wool duties, and he presented an 
agreement upon which they united. In his speech advocating the passage 
of the McKinley tariff bill, he evinced careful research and perfect famil- 
iarity with his subject. He also ably conducted a defensive fight, before 
the ways and means committee of the House and the finance committee 
of the Senate, in the interest of the glove- manufacturers of his district, 
against a powerful opposition of wealthy importers, regarding the duty 
on gloves. This glove industry represented an annual product of nine 
millions of dollars, and furnished employment to more than forty thou- 
sand people in his district. He won this fight, thereby opening up the 
manufacture of ladies' fine kid gloves in the United States. 

He took an active part in the question of reciprocal trade treaties ; 
and a set of resolutions which he prepared and presented to Congress, 
in July, 1890, near the close of the first session of the Fifty-first Con- 
gress, authorizing the President to enter into negotiations with the gov- 
ernment of Spain and the republics of Central and South America, with 
regard to reciprocal arrangements of trade, and recommending the sus- 
pension of legislation touching the subject of duties on sugar and 
molasses until the next session of Congress was referred to the com- 
mittee on ways and means for consideration, and attracted much atten- 
tion. Also a bill which he introduced during the next session, in 
December, 1890, to re-fund the 4 and 41^ per cent, bonds into bonds 
bearing 2 per cent, interest, and to convert the United States notes into 
certificates of indebtedness without interest, which was referred to the 
committee on ways and means, and indicated deep study and careful 
attention to the financial questions of legislation then awaiting the action 
of Congress. 

As a speaker on the floor of the House, he was earnest, able and 
impressive, and his speech in support of the mail subsidy bill, delivered 
during the second session of the Fifty- first Congress, advocating a 
national policy of advancement for American shipping as well as other 
American industries, was an eloquent plea, and won friends and votes 
for that important measure which afterwards became a law. 

In the fall of 1890 he was renominated by his party and again became 
its standard-bearer. The McKinley tariff law, which was signed by 



432 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

President Harrison October i, 1890, had not been in operation long 
enough to enable the people to judge fairly of its effect upon business 
and prices, and every means was employed by the opponents of the 
protective policy in the campaign which followed, to promote the belief 
that articles of ordinary use and consumption were to be forced up to 
fabulous prices. Congressman Sanford was also compelled to meet and 
overcome in this campaign an opposition from the State Democratic 
administration at Albany, and from the leaders of the Democracy, who 
believed that his defeat would be regarded as a repudiation of the tariff 
legislation of the Fifty-first Congress on the part of a large and repre- 
sentative body of the wage -workers, for whose benefit, its friends 
claimed, it was largely framed. The result of this election gave Mr. 
Sanford 18,369 of the 36,748 votes cast, being about 50 per cent, of 
the total vote, and elected him by a plurality of 1,581 votes over Alex- 
ander B. Baucus, the Democratic nominee. The significance of this 
result can be better understood when it is remembered that the result 
of this election throughout the country changed the majority in the 
House of Representatives from 19 Republican to 246 Democratic, and 
the congressional delegation from New York State from 18 Republicans 
and 16 Democrats to 1 1 Republicans and 23 Democrats. 

In the Fifty-second Congress he served on the foreign affairs com- 
mittee, the committee on education and the committee on expenditures 
in the state department. The Democratic majority of nearly three to 
one made it impossible for a Republican to accomplish anything of im- 
portance in the way of legislation in this Congress; but he continued to 
devote himself assiduously to the interests of his constituents in the 
matter of pension claims and their numerous other personal requests, 
and his efforts in this direction were highly appreciated by his constitu- 
ents — particularly by the veterans, the large majority of whom had 
supported him in his second campaign without regard to party lines, 
and many of the Grand Army posts had passed and sent to him reso- 
lutions expressing appreciation of his championship of their interests. 
During the four years that Mr. Sanford remained in Congress he never 
failed to reply, promptly and fully, to every letter written to him from 
his district — without regard to the politics or social position of the 
writer. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 433 

In tlie summer of 1892 the Democratic administration at Albanj' 
brought about a gerrymander of the congressional districts of the State, 
which separated Montgomery and Schenectady counties from Saratoga, 
Fulton and Hamilton counties, and attached them to Otsego, Schoharie 
and Greene counties — forming the Twenty-first Congressional district. 
The Republican convention called to nominate a candidate to represent 
this new district in the Fifty- third Congress, met at Schenectady, Octo- 
ber 8, 1892. A strong sentiment had found expression for some 
months among the leading Repiibh'cans of the new district in favor of 
renominating Mr. Sanford for a tiiird term, and this sentiment was 
strongly reflected in the delegates to the convention, who knew he would 
be the strongest candidate they could nominate, and there is no reason^ 
to doubt that he would have been nominated for a third term had it not 
been that he had stated his determination — both to leaders of the part\ 
personally, and in newspaper interviews — to devote his attention, after 
the close of the Fifty- second Congress, to his private business. He was 
married at Sanford, Florida, February 17, 1892, to his second cousin. 
Miss Ethel Sanford, third daughter of General Henry S. Sanford, de- 
ceased, formerly United States minister to Belgium. 

Three successive generations of the Sanford family have been repre 
sented in Congress from the district of which Montgomery county forms 
a part. Probably this case is without a parallel in the history of Amer- 
ican politics. John Sanford, grandfather of the subject of this sketch,, 
was born in Connecticut and settled in Montgomery county early in 
this century. In 1840 — the year of " Tippecanoe and Tyler too" — he 
was elected to the Twenty- seventh Congress as a Democrat, and served 
one term. He helped to make the protective tariff of 1842. In 1868 
his son, Stephen Sanford, was elected to the Forty- first Congress from 
the same district, as a Republican. He helped to maintain the pro- 
tective system, and was an influential member of the committee on man- 
ufactures and the committee on patents. 



LOADWICK, GEORGE H., the subject of this sketch, is, in point 
of years of service, the senior member of the Amsterdam press. 
He is also the best known Amsterdam editor in the Mohawk Valley, 
not only personally but through the medium of his paper, The Morning 
55 



434 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Sentinel, which has come to be recognized as the leading Democratic 
journal in the twenty-first congress district. 

Mr. Loadwick was born in the village of St. Johnsville, in 1848, and 
is a son of the late Charles Loadwick of that place, and is, therefore, a 
■" Mohawk Dutchman." During his boyhood he had such educational 
advantages as were afiforded by the village school. Possessed of good 
natural ability and by contact with the world, he builded upon this 
scholastic foundation an education that has enabled him to cope with 
those who boast of academic and collegiate courses. When still a 
young man he was the teacher in his alma mater. While thus engaged 
he became a frequent and valued contributor to the columns of the 
Mohawk Valley Register, published at Fort Plain. This was his first 
newspaper work, but he displayed decided talent and taste for the 
•work. 

In 1869 he moved to New York city and became one of the corres- 
ponding secretaries of the United States Publishing Company. He 
retained this position for several months and was then transferred to 
Cincinnati, Ohio, to open a branch office for the company in that city. 
He remained in Cincinnati about three years, and during this time 
utilized his leisure hours in inditing occasional contributions to the 
Evening Times of that city, over the name of " Joe Gibbons," a 
signature that was afterward made famous in the Mohawk Valley while 
Mr. Loadwick was the correspondent of the Albany Argus. The pub- 
lishing company desired him to go to San Francisco to establish 
another branch of their business on the Pacific coast, but interests in the 
east impelled him to decline the commission, and he returned to the 
valley of the Mohawk. 

Soon afterward he purchased an interest in the Mohaivk Valley 
Democrat, published at Fonda. Mr. Loadwick assumed editorial man- 
agement of the paper, remaining one year, severing his connection with 
the Democrat to become the Mohawk Valley correspondent of the 
Albany Argus. He held this position for about six years. During 
this time he became a familiar figure in the valley villages, and the 
writings of " Joe Gibbons " were copied very extensively from the 
columns of the Argus. Leaving the Argus he became city editor of 
the Utica Observer. On the 1st of January, 1878, he succeeded Chas. 




^^^^/r/^ 



BIOGRAPHICAL, 43r, 

P. Winegar as editor of the Amsterdam Recorder, and remained \\\Xh 
the paper until February i8, 1882. At this time he purchased an in- 
terest in the Amsterdam Sentinel, assuming the editorial and business- 
management of the paper. About eight years ago he bought the inter- 
est of his partners and became sole owner of The Seutinel. On October 
4, 1884, The Sentinel was changed from a weekly to a daily paper, and 
on May 28, 1888, the paper was first issued as a morning paper, the 
only morning paper issued between Albany and Utica. 

It is the policy of the paper to treat all people alike, the rich and the 
poor receive the same attention. It is aggressively progressive, speak- 
ing of men and measures as it finds them. Mr. Loadwick is a fearless 
and forceful writer, and is gifted with a style peculiarly his own, al 
most always strongly impregnated with keen wit, and not infrequenth^ 
with scathing sarcasm. As a controvertist there are few who have thcr 
temerity to engage him in a bout. Although not given to public 
speaking, he can, when occasion demands, acquit himself most excel- 
lently. Somewhat blunt and abrupt in manner and speech, he often 
impresses a stranger unfavorably, but upon closer and more intimate 
acquaintance the inherent qualities of sociability and friendship come 
gradually to the surface, and you begin to admire him despite first 
impressions. 

Mr. Loadwick is a man of extremely temperate habits, and demands 
that his employees are sober and industrious. He was married March 
10, 1874, to Miss Emily Mosher, of St. Johnsville, and the union has 
been blessed by two young daughters, Misses Bessie Maria and Flor- 
ence Emma, to whom he is greatly devoted. 



COREY, DAVID PARSONS, was born April 23, 1803, near Will- 
iamstown, Mass. He died May 18, 1869. When six years old his 
father died, and at an early age he determined to support himself, re- 
linquishing to his mother his portion of the homestead, and doing what- 
ever his hands found to do, sometimes working for farmers, alternately 
with attending school. When eighteen years old on examination the com- 
missioners gave him a certificate " for sufficient learning, and in all 
respects well qualified to teach a school." In various years he taught 



436 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

both at Salem and Hoosic. He read law in the office of the very able 
jurist, Samuel Stevens (who afterwards removed to Albany), and in 
1829 was admitted to the bar in Washington county. He had energy, 
perseverance and courage, and was not lacking in public spirit or 
patriotism. About this time Governor De Witt Clinton appointed him 
" Brigadier Judge Advocate " of the New York tenth division of mi- 
litia, and he served as ?n officer so long as " general trainings " were 
deemed necessary. 

About 1830 he came to Amsterdam, was admitted to practice as 
'' Attorney in the Supreme Court " of Montgomery county, and in 1832 
was admitted as " Counselor in the Supreme Court," and appointed 
" Solicitor, Court of Chancery;" in 1834 was appointed by Governor 
William L. Marcy " Master and Examiner in Chancery " for Montgom- 
ery county ; in 1835 was admitted as " Counselor in the Court of Chan- 
cery," and was admitted to practice as " Attorney and Proctor, Solicitor, 
Counselor and Advocate" in the Courts of the United States. 

Mr. Corey came to Amsterdam when the number of inhabitants did 
not exceed 500. He at once interested himself in every project tending 
to promote the growth, prosperity and general good of the place. He 
assisted in getting a public library and gave it place in his office and 
for several years acted as librarian ; also a " Literary Society," of which 
most of the prominent men were members. The clergymen, lawyers, 
doctors and teachers took an active part. The ladies were invited to 
write essays on the subjects of interest to be debated. He was one of 
the contributors to purchase and construct the reservoir ; a patron of 
the Agricultural Society ; president of the Temperance Society for 
many years, etc. 

In 1839 he was active in organizing " The Farmers' Bank," and not 
having sufficiently recovered from a severe illness to resume his " prac- 
tice," gave his services for a year as " cashier." He was one of the 
founders of the Female Seminary, so auspiciously inaugurated with the 
learned J. W. Sterhng and his accomplished wife at its head. In 1840 
a male department was added and organized under the same board of 
trustees, called the "Female Seminary and Academy." He performed 
the duties of trustee and secretary of this institution for about thirty 
years. Twelve times he was elected president of the village. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 437 

In the practice of law Mr. Corey soon secured confidence, and he 
pursued it with continually increasing reputation, and was not less de- 
serving on account of his private and social qualities. His talents and 
his habits of industry eminently qualified him for an active part in pub- 
lic affairs, and induced his fellow citizens to call upon him on all oc- 
casions when anything was to be done for the common welfare. He 
was a personal witness of the many changes which had occurred in the 
history of Amsterdam and was intimately identified with them. No 
man contributed more than he to the substantial prosperity of the 
place. He was a friend of education, temperance and morality, and 
gave the full weight of his influence and active services to promote 
them. On the records of all agencies for good in the history of the 
past, his name holds a prominent place. In his profession he was dis- 
tinguished less for his eloquence at the bar and before a jury, than as 
an intelligent and well-read lawyer, and a discriminating and safe 
counselor. 

On May 14, 1844, Mr. Corey was married to Emily, only daughter 
of Cornelius Van Derveer and Maria Phillips. They had three sons. 
The eldest died in infancy. Watts Parsons Corey from childhood man- 
ifested mechanical genius and was ambitious and inventive. When he 
was nineteen years of age he was granted a patent for a " Link and 
Valve Motion " to increase power, and to regulate steam. This attach- 
ment has been adopted in some of the mills and on railroad locomo- 
tives. He found no greater satisfaction than to know that his inven- 
tions were serviceable. He was an enthusiastic fireman, and many 
years was engineer on some one of the steamers, including one of his 
own construction. He took high rank as a machinist. In 1873 he was 
engaged with his brother manufacturing knit goods generally; they 
were the patentees, sole proprietors and manufacturers of the " Novelty 
Shirt." He had one son, B. Franklin Corey, who died in January, 1883, 
aged sixteen years. 

Barnet Lee Corey was born March 21, 1851, and died August 14, 
1874. Was at Cornell Universitj' as sophomore in 1869, and as junior 
in Union College in 1870. In 1871 he entered Wabash College and 
there graduated June, 1872. In the class day exercises was prophet, 
and delivered one of the honorary orations at the Commencement. Soon 



438 HrSTORY OF MONTGOMERY" COUNTY. 

after he began the study of law in the office of Horde & Hendricks, of 
Indianapolis, Ind. In 1873 he came to Amsterdam to assist his brother 
in the manufacture of knit goods, intending to resume his chosen pro- 
fession. For one so young he stood high on the roll of honor, both as an 
intellectual and a business man. One daughter survives him. 

Mrs. Corey's only brother, John Watts Van Derveer, was born in 
Florida, N. Y., February 21, 1820, and died at Fonda, N. Y., Novem- 
ber 27, i860. In 1 83 1 he commenced his education in Amsterdam at 
Horace Sprague's Academy for Boys. Subsequently he attended the 
High School at Lawrenceville, N. J., his uncle, A. H. Phillips, being 
proprietor and one of the founders of that institution. In 1842 gradu- 
ated at Union College and delivered one of the honorary orations at the 
Commencement. Entered as student at law in the office of D. P. Corey, 
admitted to the bar in 1844 and became partner of D. P. Corey. He 
soon won for himself the respect and admiration of all who knew him, 
both as a lawyer and a gentleman. To the poor and unfortunate he 
freely gave his counsel, and shared his means. Very few have been 
gifted with more ability and more correct notions of what is honorable 
and upright. Firm in his adherence to the right, yet courteous in a 
large degree, with great argumentative powers, and laudable ambition, a 
talent to comprehend and expound the intricacies of the law, a good 
command of language and a forcible, earnest way of expressing himself, 
he was deservedly popular. In 1849 1^^ was elected clerk of Mont- 
gomery county, served six years, and declined another nomination. 
Through all his political and business life the integrity of his character 
was preserved unblemished. 



1NMAN, HORACE, was born in SaHsbury Center, Herkimer county, 
N. Y., on the 29th of July, 1839. He is a son of Hiram Inman, 
who removed with his family to Middleville, in the same county, when 
the subject of this sketch was only six months old, and thence he re- 
moved to Hagaman's Mills, Montgomery county. There he carried on 
a wood-working business, making furniture, wagon hubs and spokes 
and other articles, besides doing some work in iron and brass. He died 
there in the year 1880. 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 439 

Horace Innian's opportunity for securing education in school was 
extremely limited. When he was twelve years of age he was taken out 
of the district school to begin the practical work of his life in his father's 
factory. But this did not seem like a privation to him, for the work 
was pleasing to him and such as he was naturally fitted for. He ad- 
vanced rapidly in practical mechanical knowledge and ability and the 
business was soon substantially under his management. He remained 
in that capacity until he was twenty-one years old, when he came to 
Amsterdam and carried on the sale of furniture where Reese & Co are 
now located. He continued this business until 1867, but meanwhile in 
1864, he went south to Madison Parish, La., and carried on a cotton 
plantation one year, but the financial outlook was not what he had hoped 
for and he abandoned the enterprise. In 1868 he went out of the fur- 
niture business and for eight months acted as foreman in the shops of 
the Delaware and Hudson Canal Company at West Troy. Following 
that he spent one year in the Young Wringer Works in Amsterdam, 
after which he traveled about four years selling machinery and hard- 
ware. 

In June, 1874, Mr Inman began the manufacture of paper boxes in 
Amsterdam, buying out a small business. This proved to be a decisive 
move on his part and led up to all his later business career. Possessing 
natural inventive talent of a high order, and acquired mechanical skill, 
he soon discovered that the making of paper boxes by machinery, then 
an almost unknown art, presented a problem worthy of his study. Two 
removals of his business brought him to his present location on Spring 
street, and there in 1882 he began carrying out the ideas he had formed 
for perfecting and constructing paper box machinery. He soon after- 
ward organized the American Paper Box Machine Company, which 
took into its control several of his patents, while he built the machines 
for them in shops established by himself under contract. The box 
making business itself passed first to the firm of Horace Inman & Son 
and later to the Inman Manufacturing Company, which still manufac- 
tures machinery for the other company, as well as a large variety of 
other special machines, a number of them under Mr. Inman's patents. 
Their works now employ about 175 iiands and their catalogue contains 
descriptions of such machinery as the Inman Slitting and Winding Ma- 



440 PIISTORV OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

chine, Inman Narrow Slitting Machine, Inman Box Covering and 
Trimming Machine, Inman Double Box Machine, Inman Single Strip 
Machine, Inman Automatic Cut Off, Inman Top and Bottom Labeling 
Machine, Inman Staying, Trimming and Setting- Up Machine, Inman 
Corner Cutter, Envelope Band Slitter, Straw Board Scorer and Cut- 
ter, Straw Board Handler, Paper Mill Slitter and Winder, Inman 
Double Glue Kettle, Inman Folding-Box Machine, Corner Staying 
Machine, besides others. 

In this connection it is proper and of general interest to print here- 
with the following account of the former condition and late growth of 
this business, as given by the American Box Machine Company: 

Previous to the year 1881, all boxes made in the United States and in all other parts 
of the world were made of short pieces of paper; usually paper made 20x24 inches, 
then cut to proper lengths, either shorter than that or longer, spliced together as the 
case might be, first putting on the trimming strip (be it one or more) and afterwards 
the band or covering strip, thus requiring three operations for covering the box, the 
hand pasting each piece separately and putting it on. This necessarily wrinkled and 
soiled the paper largely, as all glazed paper which is usually used on boxes is covered 
with water color, the color being held to its place chiefly by glue and beeswax. Most 
boxes at that time were made with paste, because the labor of putting paste on was 
much less than putting glue on, which makes a better box and soiLs the outside of the 
paper less. Previous to this time nearly all glazed papers which were used in covering 
boxes was colored in the roll, then cut up in short pieces usually 20x24 inches, then 
finished under a polishing or glazing machine, each sheet by hand, pulling it through a 
short distance each time of the stroke. This would leave irregular .shaped stripes on 
the paper and would not finish it evenly. Some paper was finished m a calendering 
machine and then cut up in the usual marketable lengths — 20x24 inches — and furnished 
the trade in this shape, to be cut to the best advantage for the box maker. There was 
another great objection to this kind of work, that existed in coloring the paper. The 
outer edges were liable not to be a." deep in color as the center, and by cutting them up 
for hand work in short pieces they would sometimes cut one way of the paper and 
sometimes the other, and where they were joined together would vary in color. 

The machine for single strip work was invented by Gordon Munro and bought in by 
the American Box Machine Co. The double strip machine was invented by Horace 
Inman, the present manager of the American Box Machine Co , he having been in tlie 
box business since June 10, 1874, working by hand the same as the others until the 
year 1881. The company then bought out these covering machines, using a continuous 
strip of paper pasted on one side and applied to the box automatically ; also two or 
more strips united together, pasted on one side and applied to the box automatically 
and cut oft the proper length. It was very difficult at that time to get any paper made 
in the roll suitable for box covering purposes. The firm of Doty & McFarlan of New 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 441 

York city commenced making paper for tliat purpose in the roll and made a success of 
it. Other firms were obliged to make the change, and now nearly all the box papers 
are made and finished entirely in the roll, doing it much better and cheaper than the old 
way of cutting it up and finishing it. At the present time almost all papers are made 
and finished in the roll, and it needed in the sheet, are cut up after being finished. 

At that time (the year 1881) there was no machine on the market for cutting and 
winding paper in the roll that would cut glazed paper smoothly and true and wind it 
up. For a time, until the machine was built which the pre.sent company now manu- 
factures for that purpose, the covering machines were a failure on that account. There 
were several machines which were claimed to do this work, but after practical trial, 
they failed to work satisfactorily. The company in question have built and put on the 
market over three hundred of the.se slitting and winding machines, and nearly every one 
of them represents a paper box shop and plant of covering machines in addition to it. 
This creates a saving of labor of about one-half over hand work and an improvement 
of the quality of the work done; at the same time less skill is required and a more 
economical use of covering and sticking material is accomi>lished. This has caused the 
great change in the paper box manufacturing trade. One of the advantages the pres- 
ent company have of putting these machines on the market, is being connected with the 
Inman Manufacturing Co., before mentioned, who manufacture paper boxes. The com - 
pany puts the machines in practical use in their place before they are given out to the 
public, thus being able to give them a test which no other concern is able to do, as any 
machine built will develop weak points^and must be improved on, and changes must bo 
maile from time to time, before the public can have a machine that will give satisfac- 
tion and meet all needs. Although this machine in its infancy was not considered a 
success by the trade generally, as soon as it developed itself and proved itself a success, 
there came an army of infringers under all sorts of excuses. No one disputed the fact 
that the present company and its predecessors were the first who put the practical ma- 
chine on the market; but they claimed in all cases that our patents were of no value. 
The company has had very extensive litigation, costing a great many ihousai.ds of dol- 
lars, and in all cases up to the present date, has won every suit commenced against in- 
fringers*, and has promptly brought suit against every infringer that could be located. 
Some suits the infringers would settle before a trial; others were stubbornly resisted 
until the United States Court, in whicli all these cases are tried, decided it for the com- 
pany. Decisions have been had on all important patents in favor of the company in the 
United States District Courts, and large judgmer>ts are now held against an infringer, 
on which collection is anticipated either from the builder or his customers, who are lia- 
ble for damages, after the sheriff returns the execution unpaid. Although this com- 
pany has had decisions in its favor in the high courts of the land, people are still found 
in business with no knowledge of patent laws and no experience in that line, who as- 
sume to be better judges of these patents than the higher courts. It is also found that 
in the majority of cases the infringers are men of no mean.s, so that if judgment is se- 
cured against them it cannot be collected, leaving their customers entirely at the mercy 
of the company. 
56 



442 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

The paper box business is a growing one, there being more than double the boxes 
useJ in this country that there were ten years ago. Cheapness and quality are the 
great aims of the public, and the tendency of all manufacturers is to put their goods up 
in packages which will preserve them from bemg soiled and transport them in proper 
shape; therefore the paper box trade is in a.very flourishing condition, there being about 
two hundred tons of paper used every day in paper boxes in this country. 

This company claim (and the courts have sustained it) that it is impossible to make a 
paper box using a continuous strip of paper pasted on one side and automatically applied 
to the box, without using the machines made by this company, because it is not prac- 
ticable to use short pieces and paste them and put them on the box. 

The Horace Inman Manufacturing Company, they being practical box makers, have 
seen that there is great need of improvements in other machinery besides the box cov- 
ering machines, and have devised machines and put them on the market for doing all 
the kinds of work — scoring, corner cutting, staying up the corners of boxes, and many 
other improvements in the box trade, to facilitate the manufacture of paper boxes. 
These machines are on new principles, dififerent from anything heretofore put on the 
market. It is not to be understood that no improvements have been made by others in 
that time, but it is claimed that the same general principle is carried out Vjy all other man- 
ufacturers that was used fifty years ago. The machinery made by this company is a 
radical change over the old way ; hence it is found that in a great many cases in the 
trade, where people have used the old style and the old way of machines, no matter 
how great the improvement in what is now made, they think it is of no value. This is 
true in reference to the machinery above mentioned. The public is invited to inspect 
the works at Amsterdam, where nearly all the machinery can be seen running, showing 
the practicability of the new way and new order of things. 

Mr. Inman is a Republican in politics, but not an active partisan, his 
own affairs demanding and receiving his constant attention. He is a 
charter member of the Amsterdam Board of Trade and takes a proper 
degree of interest in the growth of the city. He was married at the age 
of twenty- one to Elizabeth Joslin, of Perth. They have three children : 
Harry A., who is now in business with his father ; Willard D., deceased ; 
Carrie, and Charles, living at home. 



I/^ENNEDY, THOMAS F.— Born in Albany, N. Y., in April, 1852, 
[\ of Irish parentage, he passed his youth in that city, attaining his 
education there in the public schools. At the age of fifteen years he 
became a citizen of Amsterdam, moving there with his father, who was 
engaged in mercantile pursuits. For five years he filled a clerical place 
in his father's grocery store and then became its proprietor. His apti- 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 443 

tude for business, which he evinced in early youth, developed rapidly 
and he soon became' the leading merchant in the grocery line in the city. 
In 1886 he engaged in the knitted goods industry and is now a member 
of the firm of Yund, Kennedy & Yund, and their concern is one of the 
largest and most successful in the knitted goods trade. In his business 
as in his other undertakings he has shown a capacity for intelligent and 
adroit business tactics rarely excelled by a young man. In politics Mr. 
Kennedy is an uncompromising Democrat. He has frequently been 
approached with political nominations for places of honor, but he has in- 
variably declined them. He has, however, occupied places of distinc 
tion on the Board of Water Commissioners and in the official board ol 
the City Hospital, places without compensation in salary or emoluments 
Born a Catholic, he clings to the faith of his father and the precepts of 
the Roman Church, He is regular in his church attendance and liberal 
in his contributions. In his church relations, as in other walks of life, 
his devotion and sincerity is never questioned ; he is faithful and thor- 
ough. 

In 1883 Mr. Kennedy married Mary M. Kyne, daughter of the late 
Patrick Kyne, a lady who enjoys a place in the hearts of all who know 
her, because of her many virtues. Their home is blessed by four chil- 
dren who are subjects of their constant solicitude. At this writing, 
January, 1893, he is devoting the greater share of his time to his man- 
ufacturing interests, leaving his large mercantile business in the hands 
of another, it being his purpose, ultimately, to cease being a merchant. 
He is much respected in every circle in which he moves, and is a citizen^ 
who enjoys the confidence of all men. 



BORST, HENRY VROMAN, was born at Cobleskill, N. Y., in 
July, 1853 ; his father died when he was eleven years old and he 
was immediately thrown upon his own resources ; he started to teach 
school, working on a farm during vacations; he educated himself at the 
Cobleskill Free School, Brockport Normal College and Cornell Univer- 
sity. After leaving Cornell lie studied law with Judge Lament at 
Cobleskill for one year and then entered the law office of James C. 
Dewey, esq., then of Albany, N. Y., where he continued his law studies 
at the same time taking a course in the Albany Law School. He was 



444 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

admitted to the bar in May, 1877, ^'^'^ ^ ^^^ days thereafter graduated 
from the Albany Law School, being one of the four speakers at the 
Commencement exercises. In January, 1878, lie located in Fort Plain 
and formed a co-partnership with D. C. Shults. Mr. Borst was elected 
district attorney in 1883 by about seven hundred majority. In Janu- 
ary, 1888, he was appointed by Governor Hill county judge of Mont- 
gomery county, and was nominated by his party for that office in the 
fall of the same year, but was defeated by seventy-five majority, al- 
though being some six hundred ahead of his ticket. On his appoint- 
ment to the office of county judge he removed to Amsterdam and 
entered into a partnership with Judge Westbrook for the practice of 
law. The firm still continues and enjoys a large practice. Judge Borst 
has always been a Democrat and in every campaign since he was twenty 
years old his services have been in demand as a public speaker on the 
stump and on other occasions. He is a tireless practitioner and never 
ventures into court with his client without having first ascertained every 
phase and detail, even to the minutest, involved in the case. This, per- 
haps, largely accounts for his success before a judge and jury. He is 
forceful an d argumentative in his legal addresses, and is destined to reach 
a very high position at the bar of the State. He has been twice mar- 
ried, his first wife dying shortlj' after their marriage, leaving him a legacy 
in an interesting daughter, who is now grown into early womanhood. 
His present marriage, like the first, is a most happy one, and his home 
is gladdened by the presence of three interesting sons. 



YOST, GEORGE, was born near Johnstown, Fulton count}', N. Y., 
December 6, 1810. His father was a respected farmer of that time, 
md he gave his son ample opportunity to secure an education. Entering 
Union College at the age of fifteen years, he graduated with honor in 
the class of '29. At that time the late Daniel Cady was one of the 
foremost lawyers'of the interior of this State, and upon his graduation 
Mr. Yost entered Mr. Cady's office, where he ardently pursued his 
studies until he was admitted to the bar. It is an indication of Mr. 
Yost's attainments and character at that time, that Mr. Cady immedi- 
ately gave him a partnership in his business, which continued to their 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 445 

mutual satisfaction for several years. In 1846 Mr. Yost took up his 
permanent residence in Fort Plain, Montgomery county, where he very 
soon occupied a prominent position in his profession. In 1854 he was 
elected to the State Senate. Originally a Whig and later a Republican 
in politics, he took an active interest in the current of important events 
during the decade preceding the outbreak of the civil war. His record 
as a legislator in the Senate was an honorable one in all respects and 
gave satisfaction to his constituency. In 1863 he was elected to the 
office of county judge and surrogate, and held the place until 1867, 
when he was defeated for re-election by James H. Cook, of Can- 
ajoharie. In this honorable judicial office Judge Yost added to his 
already established professional reputation. Very few of his decisions 
were reversed and his impartiality and integrity were never questioned. 
As a politician Judge Yost made a deep impress upon his time, partic- 
ularly in his own congressional district, and during the period when 
Montgomery and Herkimer counties constituted one district, he was 
one of the leaders in a small coterie who were almost invincible. Dur- 
ing the war period Judge Yost gave his unwavering support to the gov- 
ernment. After his retirement from public office, he gave his attention 
to his large practice, devoting himself at all times faithfully to the 
interests of his clients. Eminently well versed in the law, especially in 
its various relations to real estate, possessed of a wonderful memorj', 
and a calm and sound judgment, Mr. Yost's counsel was widely sought 
and very highly respected. At his death his professional brethren in 
Montgomery and adjoining counties met and united in expressions of 
profound respect and ardent admiration of the deceased. Judge Yost 
was prominent in the Masonic Order, a member of Fort Plain Lodge, 
Hiram Union Chapter, R. A. M. and Utica Commandery, K. T. He 
was long a director and legal adviser of the Fort Plain National bank, 
and in all proper ways evinced public spirit and interest in the well- 
being of the community. For about ten years preceding Judge Yost's 
death, he substantially retired from business, except as his attention 
was required for his property interests. His death took place on the 
8th day of February, 1888. He had never married, but left in his 
attractive home two sisters and his niece, Mrs. Mary J. Parsons, who 
still survive. 



446 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

YUND, JOSEPH. — The quiet and contented life that Mr. Yund is 
now being favored with, no one who knows him best, can envy. It 
has come to him after many years of a most active career of shifting 
scenes, and vicissitudes common to mankind. Born near Strassburg, 
Germany, in July, 1823, seventy years have rolled over him and he is 
yet found in the enjoyment of vigorous health. He was educated in 
his native land and there learned the spinner's trade. He pursued this 
vocation until 1866, when he started in the furniture business; that he 
followed until he had secured to himself a competency, upon which he 
retired in 1881. At the age of twenty-seven (1850) he married 
Louisa Bougraft, whose life has been spared to enjoy with him the 
reward of their early struggles. The union was favored with three 
sons, Theodore J., Charles C, and Albert, active and reputable busi- 
ness men of Amsterdam. In 1854 Mr. Yund came to America and 
with the exception of a year or two has passed the interim in Amster- 
dam where, for many years prior to 1881, he was engaged in business 
as a cabinet maker and furniture dealer, and in which calling he accu- 
mulated a comfortable fortune. As a Catholic he is devoted to the spir- 
itual and temporal interests of St. Joseph's German Catholic Church, in 
which he holds a responsible office. In fact he was instrumental in 
building this church, giving largely from his means and devoting his 
entire attention to its construction. In politics he is a Democrat, He 
occupies a handsome home and his declining years are fraught with 
happiness. 



YUND, THEODORE J.— In the subject of this brief biographical 
story we find a most pronounced illustration of the fact that na 
social prejudices, no class distinction, no differences of birth, can pre- 
vent the man of true merit from winning a reward in this land of per- 
sonal liberty. Mr. Yund was born in October, 1852, in Alsace, then 
one of the French possessions, now belonging to Germany, of indus- 
trious and thrifty parents. At the age of two years, 1854, he came to 
America with his parents, who located in this county. His boyhood 
was passed in the usual way. He attended the public schools and his 
home training taught him to be frugal and industrious, qualities that 
he preserved and which became of inestimable value to him in climbing 




Cuax> '^^, 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 447 

to the place among men to which he has attained. At the tender age 
of fourteen he began his active business career by accepting a clerical 
place in the furniture store of Joseph Yund & Co., at Amsterdam, 
the senior member of which was his father. He soon evinced such 
aptitude for a mercantile pursuit that in 1872 he became an equal 
partner with his father in the furniture trade, the firm name being 
Joseph Yund & Son. This relation was most successful and in 1881 
he became sole proprietor of the business which had grown to be 
larger and more successful than any of its kind between the cities in 
the Mohawk Valley. He engaged in business to succeed and he was 
constant and tireless in his determination to accomplish this end. In 
1886 Mr. Yund became interested in the knitted goods industry on 
quite an extensive scale. This required so much of his attention that 
he associated with him in the furniture trade his youngest brother in 
1890 and the firm name became Theodore J. Yund & Brother, and it 
so remains. Connected with him in the knitted goods industry were 
his brother Charles C, Thos. F. Kyne and his brother-in-law, Thomas 
F. Kennedy. This firm soon attained a commanding place among 
manufacturers of knitted underwear uninterruptedly until 1892, when 
Mr. Kyne relinquished his interest in the copartnership and the firm 
was reorganized under the name of Yund, Kennedy & Yund, and is 
so being continued. The capacity of the establishment has recently 
been doubled and is a highly prosperous institution. In 1879 Mr. 
Yund married Miss Elizabeth L., daughter of the late Michael Kennedy, 
and the union has ever proved a most happy one. He is a member of 
St. Joseph's German Catholic church and liberal in his offers to its sup- 
port. In politics he is a Democrat, but rarely becomes identified with 
active politics. He is known for his stirring business qualities and 
social relations and is a representative citizen of his adopted city. 



YUND, CHARLES C. — Probably no young man in the county of 
Montgomery is entitled to a greater measure of praise for the 
financial success that has attended his tireless efforts to win a place 
among men than has the gentleman whose name gives title to this 
hasty review of an honorable and active life. Born in Fort Hunter in 



448 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

1855, where his parents located upon their arrival in this country as 
natives of Alsace, Germany, his childhood and youth were not unlike 
those of country-born boys. His father finding his business, that of a 
spinner, not sufficiently remunerative, sought a broader field by set- 
tling in Amsterdam. Here Mr. Yund attended the public schools 
and the academy, thus attaining an education that has served him satis- 
factorily in his business pursuits since he reached man's estate. He, 
evidently, resolved in early life to reach that goal where a competency 
is afforded those who have the perseverance and tact to reach it, for his 
career has been that of a man constantly alert, ever alive to the 
requirements needed in a useful and valuable manhood. When he 
completed his academic course he engaged in a clerical capacity in the 
clothing trade. He served three years in this capacity and then learned 
the trade of a cabinet maker, a calling he acquired that it might be 
found valuable to him in later life. He then became known as a 
clothing merchant in a small way. But he had the elements of suc- 
cess in him and his business was rapidly developed, and in 1881 he 
purchased a hotel property on the principal thoroughfare of the city 
which, at a cost of several thousand dollars, he converted into an 
establishment particularly adapted to the clothing trade, rendering it 
the most attractive business building on the street. With enlarged 
facilities and possessed of a sturdy determination to win, he pushed 
on, soon becoming the most enterprising and extensive clothier in the 
county. He was a liberal patron of the advertising columns of the 
press, generous in his subscriptions to praiseworthy objects and active 
in all undertakings calculated to promote the welfare of his city. In 
1886 he became interested in the knitted goods industry, which has 
proved a successful venture. At this writing, January, 1892, he is 
engaged in closing out his clothing business with a view to devoting 
his entire attention to knitted goods as a member of the firm of Yund, 
Kennedy & Yund. In 1883 he married Miss Theresa Kennedy, 
youngest daughter of the late Michael Kennedy. They have been 
blessed with three interesting children and their home is one of the 
prettiest and most attractive in the city. Politically Mr. Yund is a 
Democrat and while he always finds delight in the success of his party, 
he never seeks to be identified in its councils. He is a communicant 



BIOGRAPHICAL. 449 

in and attendant of St. Joseph's Catholic church. He is practically a 
self-made man and is in the enjoyment of the well-earned confidence 
and respect of all who are favored with his acquaintance. 



WENDELL, JOHN DUNLAP, county judge and surrogate of 
Montgomery county, N. Y., was born at Sprout Brook, in the 
town of Canajoharie, N. Y., September 13, 1840, and is the third son 
in the family of ten children of the late Benjamin Wendell and Sarah 
(Fox) Wendell. His father was a shoemaker and postmaster at Sprout 
Brook until 1856, when he purchased and moved on a farm between 
Sprout Brook and Fort Plain, so that the subject of this sketch was 
compelled to work out among the farmers in the summer and in the 
winter attended the district school at Sprout Brook, and after school in 
the winter, while his father was postmaster, he carried the U. S. mait 
each day from Buel to Sprout Brook, a distance of about two miles, 
and doing it most of the time on foot. He was examined by John H. 
Brookman, the superintendent of public instruction, now of the town 
of Minden, and granted a certificate to teach school, and commenced 
teaching at Mapletown, in the town of Canajoharie, Montgomery county, 
N. Y., teaching in the winter and working on the farm in summer, until 
the fall of 1 86 1, when he entered the Albany Law School, and gradu- 
ated from that school in the spring of 1S62, and he became a member 
of the bar the same year, locating at P'ort Plain, Montgomery county, 
N. Y., in the office of ex-Judge Yost, who then was county judge and' 
surrogate of Montgomery county, N. Y., and in 1874 formed a partner- 
ship with his brother, PVed Fox Wendell, which firm continued in busi- 
ness until the spring of 1883, when the firm was dissolved on account 
of Fred Fox Wendell accepting the position of superintendent of the 
tax department of the West Shore Railroad, which position he has occu- 
pied ever since. During the time this firm was in business they had 
charge of the land department of the West Shore Railroad in obtaining 
the right of way through Montgomery, Herkimer and Schenectady 
counties, trying all the commission cases, making searches, drafting 
deeds, etc. ; this firm having done a large and lucrative business, and 
having been connected with some of the most important trials had in 
57 



450 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

the Mohawk valley during said time. After said firm dissolved another 
law firm was formed composed of Judge Wendell and Edwin S. Van- 
deusen, who had been with the firm of J. D. & F. F. Wendell from 
1876. The subject of this sketch is now and has always been a Repub- 
lican and has been frequently called to give advice and counsel to the 
party, having been chairman of the Republican County Committee, and 
in 1875 was nominated and elected by a large majority to the office of 
district attorney of the county of Montgomery, which office he held 
from 1875 to 1878, and in 1888 was nominated and elected county 
judge and surrogate of Montgomery county, which position he now 
holds, and he is so well versed in the law and the practice pertaining to 
Surrogate court that the decisions made by him, and many of them 
having been appealed, have not been reversed by the appellate court. 
In 1862 he married Luemma, daughter of Thomas King, late of Fort 
Plain, N. Y. He is a member of the Holland Society of New York, 
and is now and has been for some time one of the vice-presidents of the 
New York State Bar Association, is also president of the Fort Plain 
Social and Literary Club, and is one of the directors of the Farmers' 
and Mechanics' Bank, a state bank located at Fort Plain, N. Y., he 
having taken a prominent part in incorporating the said bank. He is 
now and has been since 1863 a member of the Methodist Church of 
Fort Plain. He is now and has been since 1883 attorney for the West 
Shore Railroad. 



PART II. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 



The sketch of any individual or family contained herein may b2 readily found by referring 
to the Index of Part II. 



ARIvELL, JAMES, manufacturer, is a descenilaut of Sir Hugh De Araole and of 
Sir George Roolce, names famous in English history. Mr. Arlcell has carved a 
name for himself worthy of his illustrious ancestry. He was born on the IGlh of Octo- 
ber, 1829, in Berkshire, England, emigrated with his parents to America, and settled 
on a farm near Canajoliarie. He early developed literary taste and while yet a boy 
began lecturing. He was for many years manager and proprietor of the Canojoharie 
Radii, and in 1859 he and Adam Smith embarked in the manufacture of paper sacks, 
which has since developed into a very large and lucrative business. Mr. Arkell is a 
staunch Republican. He has been state senator and is a power in the councils of his 
party. He is a ready and eloquent speaker and a powerful writer on political and 
financial affairs. He includes among his friends many of the eminent; statesmen of the 
day and was a frequent and welcome visitor to General Grant in his last sickness. 
He was the cliief promoter and owner of the Mt. McGregor railroad, and for some years 
the principal proprietor of the Albany Eoening Journal. In 18-33 he married Sarah H. 
Bartlett, who was born in 1835 at Philmont, and is a daughter of Ebenezer Bartlett, 
of Massachusetts. Mr. and Mrs. Arkell have the following children : William J., born 
March 2G, 1856, now a joint owner of the Jud;/e and also of Frank Le.ilie'n Newspapers, 
New York; he married Minnie A. Cahill; Mary F. A., born April 2, 18G2, and now 
wife of Edwards Burnap ; Bartlett, who maried Carrie Clark; Laura, born on the 18th 
of -Fuly, 1866, and now wife of .John Use; Bertelle, born on the28lhof January, 1871 
and now wife of Bernard Gillam. Mr. Arkell is a large contributor to the church and 
beuevolent purposes. He has recently rebuilt his residence at great expense, and it is 
now one of the finest in Central New York. 

Arndt Family, The. — Prior to the revolutionary war, three brothers named Arndt 
emigrated from Germany and settled in the state of Pennsylvania. One of the num- 
ber, after a few year.s, returned to his native country, and another (Abraham), left 
Pennsylvania and settled in Minden. Abraham, the founder of the present branch of 
the family in Montgomery county, from the beginning took a great interest in public 
affairs, became major in the militia, and participated with his command at the battle of 
Oriskany. In 1786 he purchased a farm in .Minden for £112, from the state of New 
York, upon which he resided up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1825. In 
1786 he was elected state senator and held that position until 1791, and in 1792 his 
name appears in the town records of Canajoharie, as holding the office of supervisor. 



2 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

He was married after he came to Montgomery county and had thirteen children. Two 
of the number died in tlieir infancy; of the remainder, John, born August 11, 1782, 
died in llerlcimer county ; Anna was born June IG, 1794, date of death unknown ; 
Eh'zabeth was born Feliruary 5, 1796, married Abrain Moyer and died in Minden ; 
Catherine was born February 28, 1798, and married Henry NeUis of Palatine: Maria 
was born September 25, 1799, and married Peter Nelhs of Palatine ; Magdalena was 
born September 9, 1801, but the date of her death is unknown ; Abram was born No- 
vember 18, 1803 ; Jacob W., born December 12, 1805, married and removed to Graivi 
Rapids, Mich. ; Eve, born October 24, 1807, married H. F. C. Moyer and removed to 
Newark ; Peter was born January 23, 1810, married Miss Adams of Fort Plam, and 
removed to Grand Rapids, Midi. ; Henry was born July 21, 1812, and died at Newark. 
Of the thirteen children Abrani resided on the old homestead (where he was born) un- 
til his death, which occurred October 1, 1864. On June 22, 182G, he married Mary 
Walrath. They had four children, viz.: Maria, who married Henry Sanders, and died 
in Minden ; Minerva, who married David Elwood and is now living at Jackson, Mich.; 
Alfred, who resides in Minden ; and Henry, who is now a resident of Bay Ridge. 
Alfred, the eldest son of Abram, was born on the old homestead, June 1, 1831, and has 
always resided there. On the 22d day of June, 1870, he married Adaline, daughter of 
John Diefendorf, of Minden. Of their children one died in infancy ; the others were 
Beatrice, who died, aged fourteen years; and Charles, who is now living with his 
father on the farm. Mr. Arndt is a prominent farmer and a Republican in politics. 

Archer, Gilbert G., Florida, telegraph operator and agent of the West Shore railroad 
at Fort Hunter, was born at Constantia, Oswego county, January 22, 1859. He was 
one of six children of Hugh G. and Margaret (Hoyle) Archer. Hugh G., the father, 
was born in Scotland in 1834, coming to this country when a boy ; his wife, Marf;aret 
Hoyle, was also born in Scotland in 1838. The early life of Gilbert G. was spent in 
Kentucky, where he was educated, after which he returned to New York state, and 
since 1887 has been telegraph operator and agent of the West Shore railroad, having 
been stationed at Fort Hunter since 1888. In addition to his regular duties he has 
done a large amount of insurance business m the town. He was married January 20, 
1883, to Hattie A. Mar.sh, one uf nine children of P. S. and Lavina (Bly) Marsh of 
Constantia. 

Aldrich, Frederick H., Amsterdam, was born in Saratoga county, on the 14th day of 
March, 1853, and was educated in the public schools and Starkey Seminary in Yates 
county. In the year 1879 he came to Amsterdam. On the 5th of April, 1874, he mar- 
ried Sarah J. Frasier of his native place, by whom he had six children: Sattie il., 
Annah B., Amy A., Elbert H., Nettie J., and Frederick H., jr. Mr. Aldrich's father, 
John H., was born at the old home and married Sally M., by whom he had seven chil- 
dren. Her father, John Johnson, was a soldier and captain in the war of 1812. Mr. 
Aldrich is foreman in Tennis, Peck & Co. broom factory. 

Allen, Nelson W., Amsterdam, father of Chauncey W., was born in North Galway, 
Saratoga county, July 12, 1812, and was educated in the public schools of his day. 
About the year 1834 he married Ann, daughter of Sarah and John Nott, formerly of 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 3 

England. They had eight children, two have died, five daiicrhter.s .and one son survive: 
Sarah A., who married Isaiah McNeil, now of Bristoe, Va. ; Marion, who married 
Elijah Barber of Gal way ; Lydia and Lois reside in this city with their brother and sis- 
ter; Jennie B. and Ch.auncey W. are doini; a jrroeery business on West Main street in 
this city. The Allen famil}' came from Vermont in early times and are of English ex- 
traction. 

Ayres. Alexander, M. D., Minden, is a lineal doscendent of Capt. John Ayres, who 
settled at Ipswich, Mass., in 1G48. The line of descent is as follows: First, John; 
second, Samuel ; third, Jabez ; fourth, Jabi-z. The latter was the grandfather of our 
subject, and was a revolutionary .soldier. He was .'-tationed in the winter of of 1778 at 
Bound Brook, N. J. Plis son, Henry, the father of Dr. Ayers, was horn in 1774, at 
New Braintree, Worcester county, Mas.s., and came to Oppenheim, in 1702. He was 
engaged in farming, and married Abigail Bean. Their eldest son (of a family of nine 
children) was the doctor, who was born in Oppenheim, April 0, 1811. After atttend- 
ing the local schools, at the age of nineteen years, he t.aught school at Little Falls for 
•several termSf afterwards at East Creek. About 1833 he commenced the study of med- 
icine with his uncle, Dr. Daniel Ayres, at East Creek. He attended for two years lec- 
tures at the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Fairfield, and graduated in 1836 
from the Medical College at Castleton, Vt. In the same year he was licensed by the 
Montgomery Medical Societjt to practice surgery. In 1836, his uncle having removed 
to Amsterdam, he commenced practicing at East Creek, but in the same year removed 
to Pontiac, Mich. -After a residence there of three years, owing to sickness in his 
family, he returned to Bast Creek, where he prac;ticed until 1857, when he came to 
Fort Plain, and continued in active busine.ss until his death, August 27, 188G. In 1831 
he married Miss Harriet C. Farr of East Creek, and they had seven children : Sarah 
Helen, died young, in Michigan; Walter, resides in Oregon; Doiujlass, Albert, Harriet 
and Alexander, all residents of Fort Plain; and Helen, wife of Henderson Peck, attor- 
ney at Parkersburg, W. Va. Dr. Ayres was a member of the New York State and 
Montgomery County Medical societies, and was one of the founders of the New York 
State Medical Association. A Democrat in politics, he was elected supervisor of the 
town. He was in active practice for half a century and was a gentleman of the old 
school, courteous and dignified in his manners, honorable and gentlemanly in his inter- 
course with his medical brethren. Douglas Ayres, M. D , was born at East Creek, 
August 20, 18-12. His education was acquired at a select school at Greene, Chenango 
county, where he remained two years. He then became a student at the Fort Plain 
Seminary for two years and the next three years he attended the Fairfield Academy. 
He commenced the study of medicine with his father at Fort Plain, and in 18G1 entered 
the Albany Medical College, from which he graduated in 18G5. He commenced the 
practice of his profession the same year in Fort Plain, and in 1870 formed a partner- 
ship with his father, which continued until the death of the latter. He is a member of 
the American and New York State Medical Associations, and the Montgomery Medical 
Society, and has been president of the latter and first vice-president of the State Medi- 
cal Association. He is a Democrat in politics. 



4 HISTORY OF MONTCxOMERY COUNTY. 

Ashe, John E.,, Mohawk, Fonda p. o. (son of James), was born May G, 1845, and 
was brought up in West Bloomfield. He attended the West Bloomfield Academy, and 
in 18G6 graduated from Union College. He read law in Troy and in 18G8 was admitted 
to the bar. In partnership with Monroe Cady he practiced two years in Owego. On 
account of ill health he gave up the practice of law, and was deputy clerk of the legis- 
lature. In 1872 he established the Amsterdam Democrat, which he edited until 1875, 
when he bought the Mohawk Valley Democrat, which be published and edited for seven 
years with ability and success, when he was appointed deputy superintendent of pub- 
lic works of the state of New York. In 1890 he engaged in business with James Shan- 
ahan. April 1, 1891, he joined the firm of Shanahan, Briggs & Co., as proprietors of 
the Cayadutta Mills at Fonda, which manufacture knit goods. May 29, 1878, Mr. Ashe 
married Catherine, daughter of James Shanahan. They have three children : Mary, 
James Shanahan and John Elmer. Mr. Ashe is a rare instance of the combination of 
law, journalism, public life and manufacturing interest, and is a popular man with all 
classes. 

Barkley, William H., Amsterdam, p. o. Tribes Hill, was born at Burtonville, in the 
town of Charleston, January 20, 1864, a son of Charles J. and Harriet (Montayne) 
Barkley. His ancestry, on the father's side, was Scotch ; on the mother's side, Hol- 
landers. The grandfather (Henry Barkley) came to this country about 1780, and set- 
tled in Albany county, where seven children were born ; Charles J. was next to the 
youngest. He was married in 1859, and was the father of eight children ; seven are 
now living: Charle.s D. of Amsterdam; Emma (Mrs. Henry Snyder of Amsterdam); 
Frances (wife of Irvmg Haskins, of Schenectady; ; George A., who lives at Burton- 
ville ; Anna May, Elmer E., and our subject. William H. Barkley attended district 
school at home and helped on the farm until eighteen years of age, when he entered 
the Albany Normal School to prepare for a teacher, under Prof. E. P. Waterbury. 
After leaving there he accepted a call to Auriesville, where he taught two years and then 
came to Tribes Hill, where he taught four years. In 1891 he accepted a call to Fort 
Hunter to the great regret of his many friends in this place, but as he holds a state cer- 
tificate, he is needed in the larger and more advanced schools. August 1, 1889, he 
married Margaret Tan Antwerp, daughter of John H. and Jennie (Coyne) Van Ant- 
werp of Fonda, and they have been blessed with one child, Schuyler V. A. 

Bennett, William T., Amsterdam, was born in Leeds, Yorkshire, England, May 29, 
1853, and was educated in the high schools of Leicester ; he is by occupation a dyer, 
and about 1880 he came to the United States, first locating at Utica, where he remained 
four years as the superintendent of the dyeing department of the Globe Woolen Mills. 
In 1884 he came to Amsterdam, where he commenced business on his own account. 
" He has recently built a commodious brick building on West Main street suitable for his 
growing trade. Mr. Bennett is a member of the Eoyel Somerset Lodge in England, 
F. and A. M., is also a member of tlje Woodbine Lodge, No. 260, of Knights of Pyth- 
ias, a member of the Kennyetto Tribe. No. 10, of Improved Order of Red men. He 
was elected alderman in 1889 for two years. March 20, 1874, he married L Rebekah 
Perkins, of Somersetshire, England ; they have two children, both sons: William P., 
born in Frome, Somersetshire, March 30, 1876, and Charles J., born February 9, 1878. 
Mr. Bennett is a member of the Amsterdam board of trade. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 5 

Blauvelt, Gr. Edwin, Amsterdam, p. o. Hagaman's Mills, was born in Paterson, N.J. 
November 19, 1844. He was a son of John I. and Ann (Berry) Blauvelt. John I., 
his father, was a son of John Joseph Blauvelt, who was born in New York in 1766, 
and was the father of seven children, of whom John T. was the oldest. He was born 
March 19, 1804, was married April 20, 1840, and had seven children, of whom four are 
living: William H., Martin, Anna M. (Walter), and G. Edwin, all residents of New 
York state. Our subject lived at home during his early life, being educated in the pub- 
lic schools, and a six years course in the High School at Paterson. In 18G2 he went 
to Andover, N. J., where he was engaged as clerk in a general store four years, return- 
ing home for three years. In 1872 he came to Plagaman's Mills to act in the capacity 
of book-keeper in the Star Hosiery Mills, rising to the position of superintendent and 
remaining eighteen years. May 12, 1874, he married Catherine A. Terwilliger, 
daughter of Abram and Margaret E. (Pawling) Terwilliger of Hagaman's Mills. She 
was born June 22, 1842. A niece of Mrs. Blauvelt takes the place of children in their 
home, Jessie, who was born January 25, 1881, a daughter of Helen Palmateer, now 
deceased. In 1890 Mr. Blauvelt, with Austin and the Stairs brothers, built a knitting 
mill at Rockton, which they have since successfully conducted. 

Breedon, William, Amsterdam, was born on the 2,3d of September, 1828, in Lough- 
borough, England, and was educated there. He was apprenticed to the trade of ma- 
chinist at Leicester for .seven years, until he was twenty-one. He married Mary 
Shingler of Leicester, and in IS.'il came to the United States and located at Water- 
bury, Conn. He worked in other places in first-class establishments as a knitter until 
18G4, when he came to Amsterdam and engaged in the manufacture of spring knitting 
needles. In 1877 he was elected member of the board of trustees for three years, and 
in 1891 was elected mayor of the city, and also re-elected in 1892. Mr. and Mrs. 
Breedon have had six children, five daughters and one son : Sarah, who married Oscar 
K. Potter; Eliza E., who married William Crowell: Mary J., who married Charles E. 
Rivenburg ; Lottie, who married Charles M. Morse; Albert W., who married Mary 
Norton, and Harriet L., who resides at home. In 1879 he took his son Albert W. 
into partnership, and the business is now conducted under the firm of William Breedon 
& Son. 

Breedon, Albert W., Amsterdam, was born on the 20th of July, 1859, in Fitchburg, 
Mass., and was educated in the public schools?and Amsterdam Academy. By occupa- 
tion he is a needle manufacturer, and is in partnership with his father, under the firm 
of William Breedon & Son. On the 12th of March he married Mary Norton, of Ben- 
nington, Vt. They have five children, three sons and two daughters, namely : Robert, 
Albert W., jr., Reuben, Mary and Lotta. 

Brown, George, of Amsterdam, was born in 1801 in Rhode Island and came to Mont- 
gomery county when a young man. being a mason by trade. In 1842 he marrief^ 
Catherine Miller, born in Scranton December 25, 1811, but then living in Amsterdam, 
by whom he had seven children, three of whom are dead: Warner, who was in the late 
war and was killed November 4, 1862, at Snicker's Gap on the Blue Ridge between 
the Loudon and the Shenandoah valleys; Mary A., died January 6. 1889; and Free- 



6 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

man, died April 11, 1874; Rachel A, who married Harvey Nestle, now residing at 
Delta, Oneida county; Harriet, who married Captain Abram V. Smith, who died May 10, 
1889. In August, 1891, she married Daniel II. Davis and now resides at Dexter, Me; 
Frances, who married John Campbell of Amsterdam ; they have one son, Arthur J.; 
and George, wlio is in the employ of the government in Amsterdam, married Mrs. 
B'illrt lliison (Bhmchard), formerly of Albany. Mr. Brown died November 14, 1861. 
Mr-!. Biowu's grandfather, Joshua Griffin, was a soldier in the revolutionary war and 
helped to build the historic forts in this valley. 

Becker, Charles F., Amsterdam, was born in Prussia on the 21st of September, 1859, 
and came with his parents to this country when he was only seven. They located in 
Port Jackson, now the Fifth ward of this city, where he was educated. When he was 
very young his father diwd and he was thrown on his own resources. For a number of 
years he worked in the knitting mills in various positions, and is now on the police 
force of this city. On the 20th of September, 1880, he married Minnie, oldest daugh- 
ter of Frederick and Anna La Bahan. They had two children, a boy and a girl, 
namely : Louis F. and Anna M. Both died of diphtheria, one at the age of four and 
the other at the age of two. 

Bunn, T. Romeyn, Amsterdam, was born on the 19th of December, 1844, in Amster- 
dam, at the old stone homestead, and is a graduate of Union College of the class of 
18GG. After his graduation from college he became a dry goods merchant and con- 
tinued in that biusiness until the death of his father, Thomas Bunn, in August, 1883, 
when he took cliarge of the estate, opening up and laying out into city lots a beautiful 
property for which he found a ready demand. The rapid growth and increase in the 
valuation of his father's estate is largely due to his eflorts. The enterprise he has shown 
in building a large number of houses and pushing forward improvements has led many 
others to buy and build homes for themselves. On the first of June, 1871, he married 
Ivate R., the oldest and accomplished daughter of Judge Charles R. and Mary E. Ward 
Rhodes of Marietta, Ohio. Mary E. Ward Rhodes is a great-grandchild of General 
Artemas Ward of revolutionary fame. Mr. Bunn is the youngest elder of the Second 
Presbyterian church of this city. His father was born in the town of Amsterdam the 
16th day of June, 1803, and married Elizabeth Button of the same place, formerly of 
New Jersey. They had ten children, seven daughters and three sons : Anna C, who 
married Dr. I. I. Buckbee of Fonda ; Mary E., who lives in the old homestead ( pur- 
chased from the heirs and remodeled for herself) ; Laura V., who married George Dean 
of Amsterdam ; Harriet L., who married Rev. C. A. Conant of Bangor, Me.; Emily, 
who married Chandler P. Bartlett of this place ; and John T.. who married Elizabeth 
Runkle, both of whom are dead; Orville C, who died in Silver City, Nev.; also two 
daughters who died in infancy. The ancestry of the Bunn family is from Holland. 

Benn, Israel P., Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in Windsor, Broome 
county, November 17, 1825, and was a son of Hugh I. and Ruth ( Alden ) Benn. He 
accompanied his parents to Fulton county in 1840, where he had the advantage of a 
good common school education. In 1844 Hugh, his father, died aged 65, leaving Israel 
to depend on himself. He engaged with Henry Pawling of Hagaman's Mills, and was- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 7 

on the road selling clotlis and buying wool at various times for about fifteen years. In 
18G3 he again joined Mr. Pawling, staying one year. In 18G4 he started a general 
store in Hagaman's Mills, where Mr. F. Hagaman is now located, running it for about 
three years. He worked a farm for a year and a half when he again went into a store 
at the corner where Rubeck's harness shop is now, remaining there about twenty-two 
years. In June, 1886, his son built a store and ballon the main street, which his father 
now occupies as a general store and post-oflice, having been appointed July 1, 1889. 
May 5, 1846, he married Jane Bishop of Mayfield, by whom he is the father of three 
children: William J., born August 18, 1847; Frances E., born November 18, 1849; 
Charles L., born November 22, 1861, all of Amsterdam. Mr. Benn is still living at 
sixty-nine years of age. 

Birch, James F., Amsterdam, was born in Greenbush, Rensselaer county, February 
17. 1820, and was the son of George H. and Phrx'be (Mitchell) Birch, who were the 
parents of fourteen children, of whom twelve reached manhood and six are yet living, 
viz.: Harriet Link of Rensselaer coimty, eighty-four years old; Frederick of Michigan, 
seventy-eight years old ; George of Castleton, seventy-five years old ; Caroline Defriest 
of Greenbush, sixty-eight years of age ; and Henrietta Couse of Greenbush, fifty-six 
years old. James, the subject of our sketch, attended the public school and at the 
age of fifteen went to the Am-sterdani Academy, his parents having moved hither 
in 1827. February 6, 1845, he married Hannah M. Clizbe, a daughter of Darius 
and Mary (Jones) Clizbe. Mr. Birch moved on the farm where he now lives im- 
mediately after his marriage, and has made a blooming garden of a former desolate 
wilderness. It was a farm of sixty-one acres, but in 1891 he sold Mr. SaflTord 
forty acres and built a fine residence, across the road from the old homestead, where 
he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Birch are the parents of four children, of whom only two 
are now living: Charles E., born February 6, 1855, and Edward J., born August 4, 
1800. Charles conducts a fruit farm near his father's residence and Edward a milk 
depot in Amsterdam. 

Banta, Jacob B., Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in the town of Perth 
September 4, 1804, and was a son of Barnard and Ellen (Van Epps) Banta, who came 
to Fulton county from Saratoga county before 1800. Jacob attended the village 
school and helped his father on the farm until he was twenty-nine years of age. 
After the death of his father he conducted the farm until 1843 when he moved 
into the town of Amsterdam, where he rented a farm for three years. In 1846 he 
bought 100 acres on Manny's road which he kept for forty-four years ; he then moved 
into his fine village residence on Haskell street at Hagaman's Mills. March 7, 1839, 
he married Hannah M. Levitt, daughter of Sherwood Levitt of Perth. They were the 
parents of six children : Justus L., born April 28, 1843 ; Mary B., born March 26, 1846 • 
Charles H., born October 14, 1849; Jane A., born April 20, 1853; George S., corn 
July 23, 1857; and Clara A., born September 4, 1860. Mrs. Banta died January 26, 
1892, aged seventy-three. Jacob Banta, the subject of this sketch, is one of the 
oldest residents of this town and some of his early recollections are important matters 
of history. He has been very prosperous during his life, which he owes only to 



8 ;' HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

his own industry and good management. He has hosts of friends, for his genial 
disposition and pleasant manner make " Uncle Jalve " the companion of old and young, 
and with his business friends in city and country he is very influential. 

Bowman, John F., Florida, was born in the town of Grlen on the 12th day of July, 
1803. He was the youngest of five children of Frederick and Anna (Newman) 
Bowman. Frederick Bowman was born in G-ermany and came to this country about 
forty-eicrht years ago, settling m Glen some eight years after. He removed to Flor- 
ida in I8(J7 where he has since been engaged in farming. John Bovpnian was married 
to Elizabeth Noeltner of Glen on the 21st day of Sepetniber, 1887. They have one 
child, Edna M. Bowman, born December 23, 1890. 

Bush, Abraham, Minden, was born in Minden, January 1, 18.52. His grandfather, 
Gotelieb Bush, was the son of George Bush, and he married JuliannaCasler, by whom 
he had thirteen children, one of whom died in infancy. The children were as follows: 
Maria, who married John Wahath, and died at Boonville ; Elizabeth, who married 
Daniel Lintner, and died at Fort Plain: Lydia, who married Plenry Miller, and died 
in Otsego county; Margaret, who married Jacob Sitts, and died in Oneida county ; 
Jacob died in Minden; Isaac died in the West; Adam resides in Fort Plain; Nancy, 
widow of John Oliver Diefendoif, lives in Fort Plain : Eve, married George Ehle, and 
died at Johnstown ; Julianna, married Aaron Dillenback, and died in Dexter ; and 
William, who died in infancy. Peter G., father of Abraham Bush, was born in Minden 
December 20, 1810, and died in tbat town August 2, 188". He married Catherine, 
daughter of Abraham Diefendorf, amd they had eight children ; George Albert, James 
H., Adaline, wife of Rev. Byron Fake of Fort Plain; Abraham, Elizabeth, wife of 
Charles Martin of Minden ; Margaret, who died aged seven years; Charles Edward died 
aged fifteen months; and Erndy, died aged five months. Abraham received the benefit 
of a common school education and has always been engaged in agricultural pursuits. 
A Republican in politics, he has been school trustee and tax collector in his district. 
He married Elizabeth, daughter of Moses Smith, and they have two children : Howard 
S., and Edna. 

Brookman, John I., Minden, was born in Minden, August 31, 1818, and received a 
district school education, and also spent one term at the Cherry Valley Academy. He 
was brought up on a farm, but at the age of eighteen commenced teaching school, which 
occupation he followed for seven years, having schools in Minden, St. Johnsville, and 
three terms in Herkimer county. He then learned the trade of carpenter, which he 
followed in summer and taught school winters. This he followed until 1802, when he 
bought his present farm of seventy-six acres, which he has increased till now it com- 
prises 200 acres. In politics a Republican, he has been town superintendent of schools, 
commissioner of schools, and supervisor several terms. He married Ann Lintner, and 
they had nine children, viz. : Marvin, died young; Reuben, died aged thirty years in 
Minden ; Marvin and Manha (twins), the former residing in Minden; the latter is the 
wife of Philip J. Diefendorf of Canajoharie; Alice, wife of Erving Manclow of 
Johnstown; George W., married Emma Shaul, and has two children, Mabel and Lulu, 
and lives in Minden ; Edgar and Edwin (twins), in Vermilion, S. D. ; and Anna, who 
died in childhood. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 9 

Bander Family The. — The first settler of this family was Urial Bauder, who came 
from the valley of the Rhine. He settled in Minden, and purchased of Rudolph 
Keeler and others a farm, part of which is now in possession of his grandson, Nathan 
Bander, and which has always belonpjed to one who bore the name of Bander. Urial 
married Elizabeth Moyer, and had these children: Jacob, died in western New York ; 
George n. ; Adam, who died in Herkimer connty; Urial, died in Minden Angust 15, 
1814, aged fifty-five years ; Elizabeth, married John Peck, and died in western New 
York; and Mary, married John Moyer, and died in Minden. Urial died in Minden 
July 16, 1831, aged eighty-four years, four montiisand fo\ir days. His wife died No- 
vember 17, 1828, aged seventy-six years, five months and fourteen days. George U, 
of the above family, was born in Minden October 4, 1737. and married May G, 1810, 
Peggy, daughter of Peter Dunckle. She was born October 5, 178D. The only issue of 
this marriage, Nancy, died in infancy. George U., married February 5, 1S13, Maria, 
daughter of Peter Dunckle. She was born November 7, 1796. Tlieir cliildrcn were 
Levi, born January 3, 1815, died February 27, 1890, at New Orleans, La. ; Peter, born 
December 15, 1818, resides in Rockford, HI.; Ephraim, born April 10, 182.'3, <lieilin in- 
fancy ; Simeon, born August 25, 1825, died in Kansas in June, 1800 ; John G. ;'"iL'ir- 
garet Ann, born September 25. 1830, married Jacob II. Moyer, and died in Minden 
May 10, 1862 ; Anna Elizabeth, born November 10, 1833, wife of Dr. A. S. Scovill of 
Morea, Saratoga county ; George and Nathan. George U. came and lived on the farm 
now occupied by his son Nathan, whicli then consisted of 200 aci-es, and he felled the 
first tree on the farm. The present residence was built in 1806, previous to which there 
was a log house. The farm was very heavily wooded and contained the largest pine 
tree for miles around ; it measured seven feet and four inches in diameter; about fifteen 
feet from the ground it formed two branches about twenty-five feet it became three, and 
about thirty-five feet four, all of large size ; it made thirty-six logs, none less than ten 
feet in length and yielded 13,000 feet of lumber. George U. died June 23, 1869, and 
his wife January 15, 1888. John G. (son of George U.), was boin in Minden August 
15, 1827, and married Eliza, daughter of John Zoller. Of their six children, all but one 
(Frank \V.) died in infancy. John G. was always engaged in tarmmg, and held the 
office of secretary of the Farmers' Insurance Co., of Minden. He was a Democrat in 
politics, and died April 1, 1892. Frank W., son of John G., was born in Minden Sep- 
tember 29, 1866, and married Meeta, daughter of Daniel A. Devoe of Canajoharie. They 
have one chdd, Harry D. Frank W. is a Democrat in politics and has been secretary 
of Montgomery County Council of Grangers for two years, and was for five years 
secretary of the Fort Plain Union Grange No. 515. George (son of George U.) was 
born in Minden August 13, 1836, and married October 22, 1858, Catherine, daughter of 
Andrew Yerdon. She was born in Minden November 16, 1838. They have two 
children, Lydia, wife of Alfred Moyer of Fort Plain, and Kate May, wife of James 
Lasher of Minden. Nathan, son of George IT., was born in Minden June 9, 1839, and 
married Augusta, daughter of Dr. Solomon M. Sackiider. They have five children : 
Florilla May, wife of Joseph H. Smith of Fort Plain ; Adelliert N., Eihel Nellie, and 
Victor S. (all residing at home), and Keith Ray, who died aged ten years. Mr. Bauder 
has always resided on his present farm, and is a Democrat in politics. 



10 HISTORY OF MONTGOiMERY COUNTY. 

Brookman, Jolin H., Minden, is the groat-graodson of Godfrey, who maiiied a Mrs. 
Anna Stover of New York, and liad two children, a daughter, and a son named John. 
The latter married Nancy Sanders, and their children were : Nancj', who married 
Jacob Weiting; Lany, married John Dillenback; Deeny, married Charles Garlock ; 
Elizabeth, married Peter Quackenbush ; Mary, married Henry Dillenback; and 
John, the only son, who died in Minden in 1855, aged fifty-eight years. He 
married Mary Dillenback and their family was as follows : Ann Eliza, who married 
Charles Wagner; Catherine, lives in Cincmnati ; Rachel Malinda, married Peter Wiles 
and died in Minden ; Martin H., resides in Minden ; Betsey Mariah, who is the widow 
of Henry Mathias and resides in Herkimer county ; James Isaac, died in Minden ; 
Almira, married Martin A. Pickard and died in Minden ; Hannah Margaret, who mar- 
ried Isaac Dillenback and resides in Cortland county ; and John H., the oldest of the 
above family, who was born in Minden October 21, 1817, and married, February 25, 
1841, Nancy, daughter of Peter A. Casler. Their nine children are as follows: Henry, 
Chancey, died aged twenty-seven years ; Mary C, wife of Solomon Dillenback of 
Minden ; Helen Elizabeth, wife of Albert Diefendorf of Minden; Malvina, died aged 
two years ; John Martin, married Catherine Smith and lives m Minden; Walter, died 
aged ten years; Ida Eliza, wife of William Dillenback of Minden; Edward, lives in 
Minden ; and Yiola May, wife of Frank E. Hufnail. John H. Brookman has fifteen 
grandchildren living and two deceased. 

Baird, William Hoagland, Glen, was born in the town of Charleston. February 10, 
1849. He was one of three children of William and Dorothy Malinda (Abel) Baird, 
the others being Mary Ellen (Mrs. J. H. Servi.ss) and Heppie A. (Mrs. M. Mount 
Shelp.) His father, William Baird, was born in Charleston, September 23, 1818, and 
was the son of Benjamin Baird, born October 11, 1786, and Eleanor (Miller) Baird, who 
was born May 4, 1798. His wife was Dorothy Malina Abel, daughter of Philip and 
Hepzibah (Conover) Abel, born May 10, 1816. William Hoagland Baird's great-grand- 
father, William Baird, came to Glen from New Jersey in 1796. having been born in 
that state September 22, 1742 ; his father (also named William Baird) was born February 
24, 1704, and died in 1793. His ancestor emigrated from Scotland toNew Jersey. Will- 
iam Hoagland Baird married, September 29, 1875, Miriam C, daughter of Stephen and 
Anna M. (Edwards) Ostrom of Glen, she being one of eight children. Mr. and Mrs. 
Baird have two children, Nellie 0., born October 29, 1877, and Benjamin H., born June 
23, 1884. Mr. Baird served the town during two terms as supervisor 

Button, Benjamin F., Canajoharie, was born ai Buel, July 2, 1824, and was a son of 
Thomas and Sally (Elmendorf) Button. Joseph, great-grandfather of Benjamin T., 
came to this country from England and landed at Plymouth Rock, afteiwards setthng 
at Canaan, Conn. He had three sons, Benjamin, Joseph and Shubal. Benjamin, the 
youngest child and grandfather of our subject, was born in Connecticut, January 1, 
1759, and married there Clarissa Hamlin. They came to Buel in 1781, and had eleven 
children, eight of whom reached adult age. They were as follows: Chauncey, George, 
Benjamin, Thomas, Hamhu, Mathias, Laura and Maria. Thoma.s, fourth son, and 
father of our subject, was born at Buel, January 23, 1790, and on January 21, 1814, 
married Sally Elmendorf, daughter of Frederick Elmendorf of Ulster county. They 



FAMILY SKKTCHES. 11 

hail twelve children, seven of whom reached adult age, but only two are now living: 
George W., a farmer in Schuyler county, born April 23, 1829; and Benjamin. The 
early life of the latter was spent at Buel. He was educated in the common schools and 
Ames Academy, and married, January 20, 1848, Catharine, daughter of John and 
Christiana (Smith) Phillips of Buel. They have had eleven children, five of whom 
survive : Monroe, a mechanic of Fort Plain ; C. Ellsworth, principal of Angelica high 
school in Allegheny county ; Emma, wife of Norman Folmsbee of Johnstown; John 
A , mechanic, of Johnstown ; and Evander, a farmer living at home. Mrs. Catharine 
Phillips Button died November 9. 1877, and Mr. Button then married, March 19, 1882, 
Mary C, daughter of Jacob Young of Buel. Benjamin T. Button died September 
29, 1892. 

Bullock, Willis, Canajoharie, was born August 17, 1844, in the town of Oanajoharie, 
about a mile south of the village, on the farm now occupied by Frederick Shinneman. 
He was a son of Hiram and Catharine (Seeber) Bullock. The earliest ancestor we can 
trace on the father's side is Reuben, grandfather of Willis, who was born in Columbia 
county. Tradition says that his father and two brothers came from England about the 
middle of the eighteenth century. One of these brothers settled in southwestern New 
York, one near Philadelphia, and the other — the great-grandfather of Willis — on the 
Hudson river near Kinderhook. Reuben Bullock was the. father of sixteen children, 
si.\ sons and ten daughters. One son survives, Lewis of Sharon Springs, who was 
born in 1807; Hiram, father of Willis, was the third son, born 1799, and followed 
farming all his life. In 1811 his father removed to Canajoharie, and at his death in 
1842 Hiram succeeded to the farm, which he conducted until 1864. When forty-one 
he married Catharine, daughter of Johannes W. Seeber, who was a son of William H. 
Seeber of revolutionary fame. (See Seeber family history.) Hiram Bullock had four 
children, three of whom are living : Anna of Canajoharie; Charles, a radroad em- 
ployee of Canajoharie ; and Willis. The latter has always lived in this town, where 
he was educated at the academy, receiving a supplementary course at the Poughkeepsie 
Business College. In 1867 he engaged in tlie hay trade which he has since followed. 
He has been an active member of the Republican party, and has held the office of com- 
missioner two terms ; trustee of the village three years ; president of the village one 
term, and for the last thirteen years has been a member of the board of education. In 
1892 he founded the Hay Trade Joarnal, a novelty in the line of literature, devoted to 
the trade from which it derives its name, and its editor and proprietor, Willis Bullock, 
is known (by name at least) from Maine to San Francisco. Mr. Bullock married in 1875, 
Hettie B., daughter of Dr. Joseph Burbeck of Canajoharie, and they have two chil- 
dren, Willis, jr., and Dewitt. 

Billman, William W., Canajoharie, was born in Cherry Valley, April 4, 1853, and 
was the son of Christopher and Maria (McFee) Belhnan. The grandfather of William 
W. (Martin) was born in Germany about 1810 and came to this country about 1850, 
locating in Wisconsin, where he died in 1880. He was the father of seven children, 
five of whom are living: John, the oldest, died in Minnesota; Martin, Henry, Roxanna, 
Catherine and Christopher, the father of our subject, who was born in Germany June 
26, 1826, and came to this country a few years before his father, in June, 1844. He 



12 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY, 

first located in Canajoharie, where he remained a few years working at railroading, also 
on the plank road and farming until 1858, when he bought the farm where he now re- 
sides in Cherry Valley. In 1850 he married Marie McFee, a daughter of William and 
Catherine (Ough) McFee. They have had six children, three of whom are living: 
George C, a farmer in Canajoharie ; Lewis E., who lives on the homestead ; and Will- 
iam W., our subject, whose early lite was spent in Cherry Valley. He was educated 
in the public schools and assisted his father on the farm, with the exception of one 
year when he worked for another farmer. On the 10th of November, 1880, he mar- 
ried Josie, a daughter of A. B. and Anna E. (Bowman) Miller of Ames. They have 
had four children, two of whom are livmg: Laura, died August 2, 1882, being four 
months old ; Walter A. died March 8, 1888, being -four and a half years old ; of the 
two living. Bertha E. was born November 5, 1884, and Leo C. was born January 23, 
1892. In 1883 Mr. Bellman bought the property known as the old Mereness farm, 
where he now resides. 

Bellman, George C, Canajoharie, was born in the town of Cherry Valley about a 
mile from his present residence, September 4, 1857, and was the son of Christopher and 
Marie (McFee) Bellman. His early life was spent on the old homestead, where his 
parents moved when he was about a year old. Be was educated in the public schools 
and at Fort Plain Seminary, and after leaving school he taught one year at St. Johns- 
ville. He also worked four years at carpenter work and then began farming, spending 
one year on Mr. Bowman's farm; but in 1879 he bought the farm which he now owns 
and w'hich contains 100 acres. Wlien Mr. Bellman bought the farm it had no build- 
ings; he has added many improvements, among which being a fine residence built in 
1880, and new out buildings erected in 1879. On the 17th of October, 1877, he was 
married to Lizzie M. Duesler, daughter of Harry and Artimitia (Hose) Duesler of St. 
Johnsville. They have three children: Jennie E., boin March 26, 1882; Florence C , 
born December 31, 1885 ; and Earl L., born February o, 1888. Mr. Bellman is a Re- 
publican and has always taken an active interest in politics. 

Betts, Philip, Canajoharie, was born in New York, June 3, 1845. ana at the age of 
twelve began as delivery boy in a market, which was his starting point to learn the 
butcher's trade. In 1870 he came to Canajoharie, where he was engaged with ilenzo 
Button in a market for a year and a half, when he bought out the business and has ever 
since conducted it on his own account. In 1884 Mr. Betts built on the corner of Mo- 
hawk and Church streets the fine brick block which he now occupies. This is one of 
the most sightly of Canajoharie's handsome buildings. In 1870 he married Ida Phillips, 
of Fort Plain, who died eighteen months later. He then married Helen Campbell, who 
lived but three years. His present wife is Nettie Blount, of Oswego county, by whom 
he has two daughters : Helena M. and Marion L. Mr. Betls owns a handsome resi- 
dence, one of the finest in the town. He is a supporter and his family are members of 
the Canajoharie Dutch Reformed church. 

Benton, Milton J., Canajoharie, was born in the town of Canajoharie near Ames, 
June 16, 1830, and w'as the son of Hylan and Cynthia (Hodge) Benton. His grand- 
father. Chandler Benton, was born in Massachusetts, and was the father of eleven cbil- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 13 

dren. Hylan, who was the youngest, was born in 1799 and was a small child when his 
parents moved to Ames. His father died when he was seven years old and he was put 
to work very early in life with Samuel Schuyler. In 1820 he was married to Cynthia 
Hodge of this town, and they were the parents of seven children, five of whom are now 
living: Myra, wife of Daniel Seeber of Jamestown, Cal. ; Keziah Curtis of Stockton, 
Cal., a widow; Byron of Rockwell, Iowa; Milton J.; Cynthia Stoddard of Merced, 
Cal. In 1849 his wife died and in the following year he married Mrs. Eve Flint, a 
widow, and they were the parents of three chddren, two of which are now living: 
Viona Lasher and Cherry. Milton J., our subject, has spent his whole life in this 
town with the exception of four years which he spent in California, where he tried 
mining and also conducted a saw-mill. Returned here in 1859 and bought a farm of 
sixty acres, the present residence of the family, to which he has added many improve- 
ments — a fine house and out-buildings, making it now, with the forty acres he has 
added to it, one of the best farms in the town. December 20, 18G0, he married Ase- 
nath, daughter of Anthony and Eliza (Anthony) Walter of Waterford, and they are 
the parents of three children : Cynthia, born December 9, 1861 ; Walter, born Febru- 
ary 17, 1865; Florence, born September 16, 1874. Mr. Benton has been for twenty 
years an active church worker, and is a steward of the M E. Church at Canajoharie. 
He is a Republican in politics but not an office seeker. 

Bander. Irving, Root, was born in St. Johnsville January 10, 1836, and is a son of 
Melchior L. and Sarah (Swackhamer) Bander. His grandfather, Leonard Bander, was 
born in Palatine, and was a farmer and a Democrat in politics. He died in St. Johns- 
ville at the age of eighty-six, having been in the war of 1812. He was a pensioner of 
the war, and had served at Sacketts Harbor. He was twice married and had by his 
first wife three sons and six daughters. His second wife was Eve Zimmerman by whom 
he had no children. Irving is the only one of his father's children living. He received 
a common school education, and at the age of twenty began for himself on his father's 
farm. In 1862 he went to St. Johnsville and worked a small farm, until about 1866, 
when he located on his present farm of 160 acres. Mr. Bauder has made his own way 
in life, and is a Democrat in politics. In August, 1856, he married Elizabeth, daughter 
of Robert and Catherine (Dysslin) Nellis of St. Johnsville (her grandfather being 
thf Rev. JoLn H. Dysslin), and they have six children: John N., Charles M., who 
died aged twelve ; Mary E., wife of Charles Brown ; Katie C, wife of John McNeill ; 
Emma S., wife of Grant Brown; Irving H. Mr. Bauder and wife are members of 
the Christian Church. 

Bonesteel, A. I., Root, a son of Henry and Mary A. (Hill) Bonesteel, was born in 
Rensselaer county, Match 26, 1844, and received a district school education. He is an 
active Republican, and unmarried and resides on the farm which his father bought in 
1872 in Montgomery county. His grandfather, Lodowich, came from Geimany and 
settled in Rensselaer county, where he reared one daughter and eight sons, two of 
whom served in the war of 1812. The father of our subject was born in Rensselaer 
county in October, 1803. He was three times married, first to AnnEnos. His second 
wife was the mother of A. I. and James H. Bonesteel. She died in 1853, and he married, 
third, Louisa Burdick, by whom he had one daughter, Carrie. He died October 3 



14 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

1882, and his wife survives him. The mother of A. I. Bonesteel was born in Rensse- 
laer county. Her father was of Scotch descent, and served in the revolutionary war. 

BeUinger, WilHam. Canajoharie, was born on the 19th of December, 1846, in Root, 
and is a son of William I. and Eliza (Putman) Bellinger, both of Dutch ancestry and 
natives of Montgomery county. The father was born on the 6th of December, 1806, 
at Spraker's Basin, and is remembered as an upright and honorable man ; his great- 
grandfather, William Bellinger, emigrated with the Palatmes from the banks of the 
Rlune. William I. was a colonel of militia and had command of the One Hundred and 
Thirty-eighth regiment of state militia. He was supervisor of the town of Bleecker, 
Fulton county, for a number of years. He died on the 17th of February, 1872. Will- 
iam Bellinger was brought up on a farm and followed agriculture for several years; 
he still owns the old homestead, a fine farm of ninety acres, in the town of Root. In 
1837 he engaged in the insurance business with Maj. A. V. Davi.s, and in the year 1890 
with A. G. Richmond, under the drra of Richmond & Bellinger. On the 19th of Jan- 
uary, 1876, he married Anna V., daughter of Elijah and Rebecca (Vischer) Garlock. 
She is a great-granddaughter of Colonel Vischer (or Fisher), first judge of Montgomery 
county, and colonel of the Try on county regiment at the. battle of Oriskany. Mr. and 
Mrs. Bellinger have two children, Florence V. and Elijah W. Mr. Bellinger is a Re- 
publican in politics, has been justice of the peace, is a notary public and a Mason. 

Conover, Seely, Amsterdam, was born at Shufty's Corners in the town of Leray, 
Jefferson county, February 20, 1841, and came with his parents to Charleston when 
five years old. He was educated in the public school, and from 1861 to 1862 taught 
.school. August 6, 1862, he enlisted in Company B, One Hundred and Fifteenth New 
York State Volunteers, and participated in the following battles; Harper's Ferry, Ber- 
muda Hundred, Old Church, Drury's Bluff, Proctor's Creek, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, 
trenches before Petersburg, Mine Explosion and Deep Bottom, where he was wounded 
in the left shoulder, the ball passing upward and lodging in his neck. This took place 
August 16, 1864, at which time he was captured and taken to the prison hospital at 
Richmond. After six days he was paroled and sent to the Naval School Hospital at 
Annapolis, where he remained four weeks ; he was then granted a home furlough for 
two mouths, after which he returned to the Naval School, where the bullet was ex- 
tracted from his neck, and he still has it in his possession. In March, 186.5, he rejoined 
his refiment iu North Carolina, on its march to join General Sherman's army, which 
they met at Goldsboro, and were mustered out of service at Raleigh on June 17, 1865, 
and honorably discharged at Albany, July 3, 1865. After being discharged he contin- 
ued his studies at Whitestown Seminary, from which institution he graduated; he then 
taught school eight years and was school commissioner of Montgomery county three 
years. In the spiing of 1879 he taught the spring term in Amsterdam Academy, and 
after this he bought the book and stationery business from Marcus Gardner, and formed 
a partnership known as Conover & Kline, which lasted for six months ; at this time 
Robert P. Orr bought the interest of Kline and the store was conducted under the firm 
of Conover & Orr seven years, since which time the business has been conducted by 
Mr. Conover alone. Mr. Conover was a member of the board of education eight years, 
supervisor of the first ward two years, is a member of the E. S. Young Post No. 33 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 15 

G. A,. R., dei)!iitmerit o£ New York, is treasurer and one of the trustees of the First 
Baptist church. August 16, 1871, he married Sarah, third daughter of Hosea and 
Phebe (Wands) Davis of Charleston, who was atone time his assistant teacher. They 
have six children, three sons and three daughters : Donald D., Mabel, Blanche, Leah, 
Maurice W., and Kenneth P. The ancestry of the paternal side is Dutch and Scotch, 
and the maternal side, Welsh. He is one of the trustees of the Savings bank, and a 
member of the finance committee. 

Cooling, Miles, Amsterdam, was born in County Wicklow, Ireland, September 4, 
1858, but at the age of eleven he came with his parents to this country and located at 
Amsterdam on the 1st of May, 1871. He firt.t worked in Sanford & Son's carpet fac- 
tory, but in 1873 he entered the boot and shoe store of his cousin. John Kavanagh, 
on East Main street. In February, 1885, Mr. Kavanagh retired from the concern and 
Mr. Cooling succeeded him and still continues the business. In religion he is a Eoman 
Catholic, being one of the leading members of St. Mary's congregation, besides many 
other organizations : he is financial secretary of branch No. 110 of C. M. B. A., trustee 
of the Olympus Club, and one of the founders of the Catholic Union. In politics Mr. 
Cooling is a Democrat, being well known in the councils of his party ; he is a fine con- 
versationalist and an easy writer, contributing frequently to the public press. In April, 
1892, he was elected water commissioner for three years, is now president of St. Mary's 
Catholic Cemetery Association. October 2G, 1892, he married Catherine F., third 
daughter of Thomas and Catherine Carr of this city. Mr. Cooling's father has been 
dead twelve years ; his mother is still residing in tliis city. 

Clark, Augustus, General, Amsterdam, was born in Broadalbiii, on the 16th of April, 
1820, and was educated in the public schools until he came to Hagaman's Mills to re- 
side. He was a clerk in a general store until 1836, but in 1838 he came to Amsterdam 
where he was a clerk in a general store and also book-keeper for two years for John 
Sanford. In 1840 he became a member of the firm under the name of Sanfcd & Clark, 
which continued four years and then expired by limitation. On the 7th of September, 
1842, he married Lydia A., third daughter of Welcome and Susan Cole Chpse of Am- 
sterdam. They have one son (Arthur T.) born February 15, 1855. The ancestors on 
his side are English, French and Irish and on .Mrs. Clark's side English. General Clark 
received his commission as general of militia from the governor of this state. 

Clark, Walters., Amsterdam, was born on the 31st of August, 1855, in Amsterdam, 
and was educated in the common schools and Amsterdam Academy. On the 2d day of 
October, 1876, he married Jennie, youngest daughter of Col. John and Maria McDon- 
ald of this city. They had two boys, both of whom died in infancy. Mrs. Clark died 
on the 23d of February, 18S7. Mr. Clark's father, John M., was born on the 24th of 
September, 1809, in the town of Perth. In the year 1836 he married Mary Creighton 
of the same town, by whom he liad nine children. The ancestry of the family is Scotch. 

Cross, William B., Amsterdam, was born in Anisleidam, March 15, 1862, and was 
educated in the public schools. After leaving .>ichool he learned the jewehy bu.'.ine.ss, 
and in 1890 he started in business on his own account. On December 29, 1886, he mar- 
ried Anna M., only daughter of Cady IT. and Mattie L. Van Vorst of Schenectady, and 



16 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

they have one child (0. Hollister) born November 15, 1890. Mr. Cross's father (George 
H.) was born in Fultonville in 1840 He was a carpenter and contractor, and married 
Sarah E. Parker of Amsterdam They have four children : William W., Geor<=;e H., 
jr., Ameail M. ami Harry S. George H. Cross enlisted in Company A, One Hundred 
and Sixty- Fifih New York Volunteers and was honorably discharged at the close of the 
war. William E. is a member of W. E. Cross Camp, No 154; this camp was named 
after him and it was organized December 16, 18f0. Mr. Cross is past chaplain of the 
camp. He is al.so a member of the Knights of Pythias, Chuctenunda Lodge, No. 100, 
also of the Kennyetto Tribe of Improved Order of Red Men, 110, also of the Amster- 
dam Lodge, 1. 0. 0. F., and of the Amsterdam Lodge of B. P. 0. E. and of J. D. Ser- 
vi.<s Steamer Company, No. 1. 

Cleveland, Ferrand H., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Summit, Schoharie 
county, April 2G, 1840. lie received an academic education and entered Rutgers College, 
but before graduatmg he enlisted, March 29, 1864 in Company G, Tliird New York 
Cavalry. He was wounded in a skirmish at Chnla Station, Va.. M.iy 14; and July 11, 
ISGl, being then attached to the stalT of Gen. A. V. Kautz, commanding cavalry. Army 
of the James, he was severely injured while carrying dispatches and honorably dis- 
charged on accoimt of such injuries in September, 1865. After the war he went to 
Chicago, but in 1872 located in Schenevus, Otsego county, where he conducted a boot 
and .shoe store and insurance office. In April, 1886, he was located at Amsterdam 
by the Mutual Life Insniance Company of New York as district agent. October 19, 
1870, he married Lydia E., youngest daughter of Amasa and Sarah C. Dmgman of his 
native town ; they liave two cliiKlren, a daughter, Genevieve, and son. Henry B. Mr. 
Cleveland's father, Henry A., who was born in Charlotteville, December 18, 1810, was a 
blacksmith and a farmer. Tie married Bethiah Decker of the same town, by whom he 
had three chddren. Mr. Cleveland's great-grandfather, David Galusha, was a sergeant 
in the revolutionary war and served under La Fayette; his wife's grandfather, William 
Clement, was one of the famous "Boston Tea Party." He also marched with Arnold 
to Quebec, but escaped when Montgomery fell, and having returned, he served through- 
out the war. Mr. Cleveland's mother's father (Peter Decker) was in the war of 1812, 
ami his srandfather, Asa Cleveland, was also a soldier in the same war. The genealogy 
of his father's family he traces to the fourteenth century — 1356 — and his mother is a 
descendent of Rev. John Young, first pastor at Bast Hampton, Long Island. 

Clizbe, Marcus W., Amsterdam p. o., was born in the town of Amsterdam on the 
site of Rockton May 15, 1814, and was the son of Darius and Mary (Jones) Clizbe. 
Darius, father of our subject, came from near Newark, N. J., with his parents, Joseph 
and Hannah (Roberts) Clizbe, in 1798 when Darius was nine years old. Joseph Clizbe, 
grandfather of Marcus W., was born June 27, 1756, and .served in the war of the rev- 
olution. He was the father of seven children, Darius being the fourth. Darius was 
born November 8, 1786, and he also was a soldier, serving in the war of 1812. He was 
the father of seven children. Three died during childhood and the names of the others 
were Marcus W., Hannah M. ( Mrs. James Birch ), William, Louisa J. ( Mrs. Alexander 
Scott ), Charlotte, Samuel J. Marcus W., our subject, has always lived on the Clizbe 
farm, formerly called the Kennedy farm, where he now resides. He was educated at 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 17 

the district school at Manny's Corners, anJ at Amsterdam at a select school kept by 
Horace Sprague. December 10, 1844, he married Emily Van Dyke, daughter of John 
and Rebecca ( Morse ) Van Dyke of Amsterdam, who came to this county from Albany 
county in 1825. Their union has been blessed with four ohildeen : Charlotte, born 
September 19, 1846 ; G-ertrude, wife of John C. Chalmers of Ann Arbor, Mich., born 
December 5, 1850; Mary, born April 28, 1853; William, born November 19, 1859. 

Cole, Jacob, Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in the town of Broadalbin, 
December 21, 1820. He was the son of Jacob and Laney (Carncross) Cole. Jacob 
Cole was a son of Isaac who came from Holland about the time of the revolution, and 
settled at Broadalbin when this section was only a wilderness. He bought IGO acres 
of land which he cleared off for a farm, and kept until just previous to his death, sell- 
ing it and buying another small place of ten acres, where he died May 20, 1853. 
Jacob was educated in the common schools and lived with his parents until 1840. when 
he went to the town of Florida, where he worked until 1852. On October 18, 1855, 
he married Sarah Fonda of Amsterdam ; they are the parents of six children, five of 
wliom are living: Hattie, now Mrs. McLaughlin of Utica, born July 5, 1856; Charles 
C. of Hagaman's Mills, born March 16, 1858 ; Marilla, now Mrs. John Stewart, born 
October 19, 1862; John, born June 8, 1863; and Shuler, born August 5,1868. Mr. 
Cole is quite an able man, though past seventy years, and his wife is stillliving to com- 
fort him in his declining years. His son Charles has been unfortunate, having lost his 
wife, Ella Sowles, who died January 20, 1892, leaving one child, Clarence Earl, 
who is eight years old. Shuler married Lizzie Sanders of Manny's Corners. 

Collins, Stephen, Amstsrdam p. o., born in Limerick, Jefferson county, August 13, 
1844, and is the son of John S. and Mary (Nott) Collins. His early life was spent at 
home and he attended the district school during the winter terms, between the age of 
ten and nineteen, when he went as a partner with his brother Tunis in running a 
threshing machine for two years, when he bought the " Elmwood farm," then known 
as the Jackson farm. He has lived on this place ever since and has built the finest 
farm house in the town, also new out-buildings and fences, and made many improve- 
mnnts which beautify and benefit the property. In 1874 they lost about $1,200 worth 
of stock by disease, which was a severe disaster to Stephen in his struggle for a home. 
December 11, 1866, he married Martha L. Shedd of Jefferson county, sister of Mrs. 
Tunis Collins. An adopted son of twelve years fills the place of children, as they have 
none of their own, and took him when he was but three years old. In 1888 Stephen, 
our subject, was elected on the Republican ticket to the office of supervisor, and made 
a marked success as such, winning a case for " equalization of taxes " against the 
county. 

Candee, John W., Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in Hagaman's 
Mills October 16, 1847, and is a son of Leander and Maria (Palmateer) Candee. Lean- 
der N. Candee was a son of David W. and Elizabeth (Ostrom) Candee. John W., our 
subject, lived at home during childhood, attending the public school at Hagaman's 
Mills until he was eighteen years of age, and then took a course of instruction of 
his uncle, Peter Smeallie, of the Andes Collegiate Institute. After leaving that insti- 



18 HISTORY OF MONTGOiMERY COUNTY. 

tution he attended Ames's Commercial school at Syracuse for about six months. He 
then followed the carpenter's trade for six years, and on August 16, 1871, he married 
Nellie M. Nason, daughter of William Xason of Glens Falls. In 1883 he engaged with 
William M. Pawling of the Anchor Hosiery Mill, as bookkeeper and clerk, which position 
he still holds. Mr. Candee lives on the old homestead where he was born. Mr. and Mrs. 
Candee are the parents of two children : Mabel N., born July 30, 1877, and Anna M., 
born February 26, 1881. 

Chapman, Reuben, Amsterdam p. o., was born in Albany, May 7. 1825, and is a son 
of Reuben and Hannah (Zeraner) Chapman. Reuben, the father of our subject, was 
born in East Haddam, Conn., August 2, 1778, and came to Albany about 1805, where 
he conducted a flour and feed store until 1828, when he came to the town of Amster- 
dam and bought the farm of 152 acres where Nelson Scott now lives. Reuben, our 
subject, attended the district school until he was sixteen, when he joined his father in 
working the farm. January 17, 1855, he married Sarah E. Bell, daughter of Andrew 
and Anne (McClellan) Bell. January 12, 1866, eleven years after marriage, she died, 
leaving one child, Jane Anna, now Mrs. Charles Birch, of Amsterdam, born April 29, 
1858. In 1855 Mr. Chapman bought the farm of 100 acres known as the " Stewart 
farm," where he has since resided. March 12, 1867, he married Henrietta (Gunsalus) 
Hill, daughter of Henry and Henrietta (Valinda) Hill. 

Collins, Charles E., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam April 11, 1848, 
and is a son of Stephen H. and Esther (Riggs) Collins. Stephen H. Collins was born in 
Amsterdam April 20, 1814, and was a son of Joseph and Hannah (Silkman) Collins. 
Joseph came from Connecticut to Greene county previous to 1800. He came to Amster- 
dam in 1812 and settled at the place where Harrower's mills now stand, where he died 
in 1866, aged eighty-six years. He was the father of thirteen children, twelve of whom 
grew up and were married, and eleven of whom left descendants. Charles E., the subject 
of our sketch, was one of a family of ten, seven boys and three girls. His early life 
was spent at home where his father now lives. He was educated in the district school 
and Amsterdam Academy. At the age of thirty he was married to Sarah Cole, daugh- 
ter of Lewis and Angeline (Ruggles) Cole, March 5, 1879, and moved on the farm 
where he now lives. She died July 26, 1886, leaving three children: Francis L., born 
September 13, 1881; Mabel E., born April 5, 1884; and Sadie L., born July 12, 1886. 
He is one of the charter members of Amsterdam Grange, No. 705, P. of H. ; also a 
member of Artisan Lodge, No. 84, F. and A. M. ; also Amsterdam Chapter, No. 81, R. 
A. M., and St. George's Commandery, No. 37, K. T. 

Charlesworth Family, The. — John Miles Charlesworth, the first of the name to locate 
in Minden, was by birth an Englishman. He came to this country with his parents, 
previous to the revolution. While in New York he enlisted in the American army, 
and after the close of the war he settled near Fort Plain and was engaged in farming. 
He married Margaret, daughter of John Lipe and they had eight children, all of whom 
lived to a ripe old age, there being four sons and four daughters. Mary and Margaret 
were the two oldest. Mary married a Reese, and Margaret a Hawn, moving to the 
state of Ohio. John and Daniel were next. John married Nancy, daughter of Esquire 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 19 

Youngs of Fort Plain, and moved to Steuben county, where he was a well-to-do 
farmer and raised a large family of sons and daughters. Daniel married Elizabeth, 
daughter of Jacob Devendorf of Minden, and they had nine children, eight of whom 
are still living. He moved from Fort Plain to St. Lawrence county in 1843, where he 
resided until his death in 1884, being then ninety-two years old. He was a lifelong 
farmer, and left four daughters and two sons living in Ogdensburg, Charles, the 
eldest of the family, resides in Minden, and Josiah (the next younger) is in California. 
Next we mention Elizabeth and Catharine Charlesworth. Elizabeth married Isaac 
Carncross. Catharine's first husband being William Getman, who] lived and died in 
Fort Plain ; her second husband, Horace Thayer, also lived and died injthe same place. 
They had one daughter, Maggie Thayer, who married Guilford Hawn, and who still 
resides in her beautiful residence at Fort Plain, where her mother also passed almost 
her entire lifetime. Clark and David were the two younger of the family. Clark mar- 
ried Nancy, only daughter of John C. Lipe of Palatine. He was a merchant and 
musician for many years at Fort Plain, but finally moved with his entire family to 
Avoca, Steuben county, where he pursued farming until his death. David was for many 
years a furniture dealer at Fort Plam ; he moved to Albany and was engaged in the 
grocery business until he died. Charles, the eldest of Daniel Charlesworth's family, 
was born in Minden September 16, 1822, and married Eliza Seeber, daughter of John 
W. Seeber of Canajoharie. They have two children, Roselle and John. Roselle 
married Ellen Devendorf, daughter of John Devendorf, of Minden ; they have one 
daughter, Lizzie M. Charlesworth. John married Celestia Steenberg, daughter of 
Aaron Steenberg of Minden, and they have two children, Stanton and Eva Charles- 
worth. Charles, as well as his sons, is engaged in farming. They are in politics all 
Democrats. 

Cassidy, David D., Amsterdam, was born on the (ith of April, 1827, and was educa- 
ted in the district schools and the Poughkeepsie Collegiate school. From 1844 until 
1849 he was clerk in a dry goods house, but in 1849 he entered the Farmers' National 
hank, first as a o'erk and afterwards book-keeper, then teller, assistant cashier, and 
finally cashier. The latter position he held for thirty years, during which the bank was 
remarkably successful. Mr. Cassidy, indeed, has won a high reputation as a financier, 
and has also been very successful in other business. He is a large real estate owner 
and the Cassidy building on East Main street, consisting of stores and flat.*, not only 
shows good taste and judgment, but is a valuable addition to Amsterdam's business 
architecture. When Mr. Cassidy resigned his position in the bank to attend to his own 
private affairs, a general regret was expressed in the community, but has still continued 
in public service, being a trustee of the Amsterdam Academy, and al.so treasurer and 
director of the Chuctenunda Gas Light Company. On the ITth of April, 18G6, he mar- 
ried Mrs. Catharine M. Efner, second daughter of Peter H. Clute of Rochester, and 
they have two children, a daughter (Belle) and a son (David D., jr.), who is a student 
in Harvard college. Mr. Cassidy's father was born in the year 1796, and married 
Catherine Wemple of the town of Florida, by whom he had three children, two of 
whom died in infancy, and David D., the subject of this brief and imperfect sketch. 



20 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Putraan, W. Brower, Mohawk. Tribes Hill p. o., was born in the town of Johns- 
town, June 5, 1829, and is a descendant of Victor Putman, who held the grant for the 
mile square of land in the town of Amsterdam. Mr. Putman's boyhood was spent with 
his parents. He attended the village schools and assisted on the farm until 1853, when 
he hired a farm in Amsterdam and conducted it three j'ears. He then moved to the 
town of Mohawk, and in 1872 bought the farm which he now occupies and which con- 
tains seventy-five acres. He has greatly improved the place during the twenty years 
of his ownership, and has built a very fine house, also new barns and other outbuild- 
ings, rendering it double in value since he made the purchase. March 4, 1853, he mar- 
ried Mary E. German of Schoharie, and they are the parents of six children ; Henry 
of Johnstown; Alvin of Tribes Hill ; Ira of May field; Emory of Fultonville; Adel- 
bert of Mayfield, and William, who lives at home. Mr. Putman has always been in- 
terested in politics, but never an office seeker. His ambition has been to reach the 
point where he now stands as a successful farmer; one characterized by industry and 
good management, elements which are so essential to those who cultivate the soil. 

Bowers, William, Mohawk, was born in Newark, N. J., January 1, 1842, his parents 
having come from Hanover (Germany) the previous year ; but they soon moved to 
Montgomery county. He had three brothers, Charles, Henry and Albert, who reside 
in Fulton county. William worked at farming as soon as he was large enough, and in 
1863 enlisted in the Twentieth New York cavalry. Company I, and served until the 
close of the war. At Suffolk, Ya., he was thrown from his horse and had three ribs 
broken. He received an honorable discharge, being mustered out in August, 18G5. 
He is a member of Vandeveer Post No. 57, G. A. R. In 1868 he married Mary Comer 
and settled on the farm where be has since resided. He has had four children : George, 
Minnie (died October 4, 1871), John and Gertrude. Mr. Bowers was in the hospital 
at Norfolk eight months. He was a corporal, and his last battle was at Fort Fisher, 
Michael Comer, father of Mrs. Bowers, was born in Ireland, and came to this country 
in 184'?, making Fonda his residence until his death in 1869. He married Bridget 
Glynn, who survives him in Fonda. Mr. Bowers has a fine farm, and also a valuable 
sulphur spring, the only one in the town, which will yet become a health resort. 

Burke, John Davis, Fort Plain, was born in Glen and was the oldest son in the fam- 
ily of eight children of John and Charlotte (Ver Meter) Burke. His father was a tan- 
ner and currier. Our subject obtained only a common school education. At the age 
of fifteen he was apprenticed to James Halliday, carriage maker in Caughnawaga. 
After serving his time he went to Albany and was employed in the well-known Gould 
shop. April 1, 1831, he went to Minaville and opened a carriage shop on his own ac- 
count, but it was destroyed by fire in 1833, and on May 3 of that year he came to 
Fort Plain and commenced carriage building which he continued till his death, Novem- 
ber 8, 1891. He employed from fifteen to twenty men and manufactured a general 
line of carriages, sleighs and plows, dealing only in his own productions. In politics he 
was a Democrat and filled various village offices. He married Miss Cornelia Hopkins, 
and of their five children but one lived to mature age — Helen B., widow of William 
Evans. She resides in Fort Plain, N. Y. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 21 

Berry, Darius V., Mohawk, son of Henry V. and Hannah (Van Antwerp) Berry, 
was born in Johnstown (then Montgomery county), October 1, 1822. His father, 
Henry V., who was of Irish parentage, was born in 1787, and lived and died a farmer 
in the town of Moliawk. In 1816 he was commissioned a justice of the peace, and in 
1835 was elected to the Assembly. It was during his terra that the county seat was 
removed from Johnstown to Fonda. He was a Democrat and a Union man during the 
late war. He died in 1871 and his wife in 1872, aged eighty-three years. They had 
five children, four sons and one daughter : Maria Dockstader ; John V., attorney, who 
died July 3, 18.53, in Marysville, Cal. ; George W., a farmer, who died March 14, 1887, 
in Mohawk; Darius Y., and also Henry F., who died at tlie age of thirty. Darius V. 
Berry was educated at the common schools and also at Ames Academy, which then 
was a flourishing institution. In the fall of 1843, with Matthew Freeman, he purchased 
the Fonda Herald, named it the Fonda Sentinel and edited it until IS-IG, when he was 
appointed postmaster of Fonda. In the spring of 1847 he moved to Canajoharie and 
engaged in the mercantile business until 1850, but the next year he returned to Fonda, 
and entered the county clerk's office. On the 1st of January, 1853, he was appointed 
deputy county clerk, a position which he held until 1856, when he was elected county 
clerk. This office he held for three terms and was highly popular from his courtesy as 
well as knowledge of the public records. In 1865 he engaged in milling and farming 
at Berrysville until 1875, when he was appointed postmaster at Fonda, retaining the 
office until 1888. Mr. Berry's e-xpert management of the post-offlce was universally ap- 
preciated. He was clerk of the board of supervisors in 1850, and held that office three 
years. He was elected a member of assembly in 1868, and justice of the peace in 1891 
He was also deputy county clerk from January 1, 1889, to February, 1892, having 
served over seventeen years in the county clerk's office. Mr. Berry has won a high 
position as both faithful and successful in public life. He married Charlotte, daughter 
of Simon D. Kittle, March 12, 1844. She died in 1878, leaving two children: John D. 
of Columbus, 0., and Simon D., who did good service during the rebellion as a member 
of the Third Cavalry, and who died aged thirty-three, leaving three sons and one daughter. 
Mr. Berry is a Mason. 

Bulger Family, The. — John Bulger was born near Ballangary, county Tipperary 
Ireland, August 15, 1833. He came to America in 1850, and after staying one vear 
in New Jersey came to Minden. He married Betsey Pickard, and they have five chil- 
dren : R. Simon, Margaret E., wife of Nicholas Stoner of Springfield Center; John J. 
resides in Minden; Barbara Ann, wife of D. B. Ellis of Johnstown; and Charles D. 
who resides in Minden. R. Simon, the eldest of the above children, was born in Stark 
Herkimer county, March 13, 1853, and married Katie, daughter of the late Josiah 
Geesler. They have five children, viz. : Earl Jay, Pearl May, John Ray, Glen W. and 
Edna L., the two oldest being twins. He has taught the winter terms of school since 
1872, and some summer terms in Montgomery and Herkimer counties. He is a Dem- 
ocrat in politics, and was twice elected justice of the peace, and also supervisor of Min- 
den in 1891-92. 

Bush, George Albert, Minden, the oldest son of Peter G. Bush and Catherine 
Diefendorf, his wife, was born in Minden. September 22, 1844. Receiving but a com- 



22 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

mon school education, he worked on his father's farm and came in the spring of 1858 
with him on his present farm of 100 acres, on the Cherry Valley Turnpike in the town 
of Minden. In politics a Republican, he has never sought public office. 

Henry S. Bragdon was born in Sullivan. Hancock county, Me., January 28, 1815, 
and was the son of Jonathan and Mary (Welch) Bragdon. His early life was spent in 
his native town, where he learned the trade of stone cutter. He left when 
about twenty years of age to go to Portland where he cut stone for two years, losing 
all that he earned during that time by the failure of his employer. He then came to 
New York where he remained but a short time, cutting stone used in the construction 
of Trinity church. He came to Tribes Hill and thence to Canajoharie, where he fol- 
lowed his trade a few years, and then opened a dry goods store. He was very fortun- 
ate in having a large quantity of goods at the breaking out of the war, and on them he 
made large profits. In politics Mr. Bragdon is a staunch Republican, and was always 
ready to assist in public matters whenever called upon. While in mercantile life he 
conducted business on the cash principle, and so also with his expenditures, and it was 
his pride to be considered an honest man, a title which he truly deserved, using his 
Bible as a guide through life,_and always living up to the golden rule, to " Do unto others 
as ye would have others do unto you." Henry S. Bragdon had great nerve and courage, 
and also a sense of the humorous, which cheered his darkest hours. His nerve was 
displayed in the water works difficulties in this village a few years age, when he gen- 
erously risked his money and sustained the effort. All who knew him found him a true 
friend in adversity. He retired from business in 1879, and was thenceforth engaged in 
the care of his estate and was for many years a director of the Canajoharie Bank. He 
will be remembered in this vicinity not only as a successful merchant, but also as a 
kind and unostentatious member of society. At his death, which occurred June 19, 1892, 
the village lost one of its most honored citizens. He was married in 1847 to Maria Fox, 
daughter of Charles Fox of Fort Plain. Their children who survived them were 
Winfield S. of Johnstown, James F. of Schnectady, and Mary A., wife of Harry A. 
Swartfigner of Canajoharie. 

Boyd, Rev. John Campbell, Mohawk, is the son of the late Dr. James P. and Mary 
A. Boyd, and was born in Albany March 2, 1836. His father was not only an eminent 
physician, but a man of earnest piety and long a ruling elder in the First Presbyterian 
church. Mr. Boyd was graduated from Albany Academy in 1853, and from Princeton 
College in 1855, and his rank is shown not only by the degree of B. A. and M. A., but 
also by the fact that he was valedictorian of his class, an honor only conferred on the 
most finished scholar. He then began legal studies in New York with Judge Van Vorst, 
and was admitted to the bar in 1857. But his attention was led to the ministry, and he 
eventually entered Princeton Theological Seminary, where he graduated in 1863. He 
was one year in charge of a mission church, but in 1865 accepted a call to the Reformed 
church of Fonda, which then was in a very feeble condition. During his pastorate the 
congregation improved, and the church was removed to its present location and enlarged. 
After five years of labor he was obliged by ill health to resign, but later on was invited 
to Valatie, Columbia county, where he held a pastoral charge for six years. In 1878 he 
was called to Kingsboro where he labored until 1883, when he returned to Fonda and 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 23 

took charge of the churches at Auriesville and Sammonsville, but resigned the latter on 
the 1st of January, 1892. His first wife was Clarissa Schuyler, daughter of the late 
George Schuyler of Fonda, but she was soon removed by death, and on August 28, 
1873, he married Clara, daughter of Isaac M. Davis, of Fonda long known as a success- 
ful merchant. During his residence in Fonda, Pastor Boyd has taken deep interest in 
the public schools, and has been a member of the Board of Education since 1888, doing 
valuable service in this important field of duty. As a preacher he is noted for sound 
tioctrine and easy delivery. He has always been a student, and next to theology has 
been a deep historical reader, to which has been added the advantages of a tour through 
Great Britain and the continent, including a visit to the famed city of Rome. Pastor 
Boyd has two sons whom he has carefully educated and who give promise to future 
usefulness. 

Billington, Thomas M., Amsterdam, was born in Fonda October 19, 1846, and was 
educated in the common schools. He was engaged in the wholesale grocery business 
in Oil City, but was burnt out in the great fire which destroyed more than half that 
place. Alfred Wright, who was also burnt out at the same time, starting afterwards 
in business in Rochester, Mr. Billington became his traveling agent. He was sixteen 
years with Mr. Wright and ten years with Adolph Spiehler, both of Rochester. Mr. 
Billington, on December 12, 1867, married Abby P., daughter of Dr. Anderson of the 
town of Northampton, Fulton county, by whom he had three children, one son and two 
dau!?hters: Harry, who married Mary Fosmire of this city ; Etta G., died at the age of 
fourteen years ; and Laura, who married Lee S. Anibal of Northville. June 8, 1885, 
he married Harriet L., youngest daughter of Dr. William H. Johnson of Jonhstown ; 
they have had two children, both boys, one of whom died in infancy, and Louis John- 
son, who was born May 1, 1887. Mr. Billington's father, Henry, was born in Stone 
Arabia and married Minerva, daughter of John H. Morrell of Fonda. They had seven 
children, six of whom are living. His father enlisted in Company I, 115th N. Y. Vol- 
unteers, and was killed in the battle of Gettysburg in 1863. 

Grouse Family, The — The first settler of this family in Central New York was Jacob 
Krauss, a German, who came to this country early in the eighteenth century. He 
married, June 24, 1724, Catharine Elizabeth Nellis, who died March 30, 1754, and he 
died March 29, 1778. Their children were John Jacob, born June 6, 1725; Maria 
Elizabeth, born September 21, 1728 ; Maria Margaretha, born September 15, 1731; John 
George, born October 21, 1733 ; Robert, born December 25, 1736, and died in the war 
of the revolution; George, born August 5, 1740; Catharina, born March 28, 1744; and 
Anna, born December 14, 1740. All these children are supposed to have been born in 
Minden. George Krauss, who afterwards spelt his name Crous, married. May 21, 1765, 
Catharine Grausen. Their children were : Jacob, from whom the Syracuse family is 
descended; George, who died in Avon ; Robert, who died in Minden; Henry; Cath- 
arine, who married George H. Nellis; and Maria, who married Hnam Vedder. George, 
died September 28, 1824. Henry of the above family was born in Minden January 
11, 1787, and married, February 16, 1812, Caty, a daughter of Henry and Elizabeth 
Sanders. Their children were Oliver, born September 10, 1812, died at Fort Wayne, 
Ind.; Catharine, born March 9, 1844, married James Center; William; George, born 



24 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

March 28, 1817, died unmarried at Fort Plain ; Henry Sanders; Jacob, born September 
17, 1820, died in Iowa; Elizabeth died young; Jeremiah, died aged twenty-three; 
Maria, died in infancy'; Samuel, born January 2, 1827, died unmarried m Fort Plain ; 
Simeon, born October 2-i, 1828, a physician, died in Warren, Herkimer county ; Menzo, 
born March 20, 1831, unmarried, resides in Fort Plain. The latter and Henry. S. are 
the only male descendants living of Henry Grouse,* who died February 14, 1864. His 
wife died April 28, 1860. William, of the above family, was born in Minden October 
19, 1815. His father owned the farm on which a part of Fort Plain is located. He 
left home at the age of thirteen years, and from that time until he was twenty he was 
en.ployed in a dry goods store in Canajoharie. Then, with his brother George, he en- 
gaged in the same business in Fort Plain, but finally sold his interest to his brother, and 
formed a partnership with Solomon Kellar at Starkville. where he continued three 
years. He then went into business with his brother Oliver at Springfield, but three 
years later dissolved partnership and for the next ten years carried on business for him- 
self in Warren. He then returned to his native town and began dealing in hops and 
other produce, which he followed until his retirement from active business. In politics 
he was a Republican. He married Margaret, daughter of Richard R. and Jane 
(Chisholm) Ward of Starkville. He died February 27, 1879. Henry Sanders (son 
of Henry) was born in Minden December 30, 1818, and married Harriet M., daughter 
of George Grouse. They have no children. Henry S. is living on the farm which 
was settled 125 years ago by his grandfather. 

Clark, William, Minden, was born at Cooperstown June 24, 1811, and was the second 
son of a family of nine children of Cyrenus and Rachel (Tracy) Clark. After attend- 
ing the public school, at the age of fourteen he was employed by General Averill who 
at that time conducted a grocery and tannery at St. Johnsville. He remained in Gen- 
eral Averill's employ five or six years, and then opened a general store at Cooperstown, 
but he came to Fort Plain in 1842, and became interested with Abraham Hoffman in 
the canal and forwarding business, under the firm name of Clark & Hoffman. He also 
became a partner in the grocery house of Clark & Wood. Owing to the decline of the 
canal business, Mr. Clark engaged in the hop trade, in which be was interested up to 
the time of his death. He was formerly a Whig, but became a Republican on the or- 
ganization of that party. He was a member of Assembly in 1848, and of the State 
Senate in 1862, besides holding various town oflSces. He married Anna Maria Neu- 
kerck, and had the following family : Charles H., who resides in San Diego, Cal. y 
William ; Kenneth, a banker of St. Paul, Minn.; Livingston, a coal merchant, also of 
St. Paul, Minn.; Ellen, wife of Edward Kopper of the same place ; Elsie, who married 
F. R. Whitwell and died in Fort Plain. Mr. Clark married, second, Mary Edwards, by 
whom he had one child John E., who died young. He died May 28, 1885. William 
Clark of the above family was born in Fort Plain June 7, 1844. He attended the 
Fort Plain Academy, and at the age of sixteen years became a clerk in the grocery 
store of O. 0. Austin, where he was employed two years. After working for A. J. 
Wagner and E. W. Wood he became a partner in the grocery firm of AVood, Clark & 

• There are two male descendants besides the above, who are great-grandnephews to Henry 
Grouse and whose names are James L. Cook and George B. Cook. 



FAMILY SKETCHES 25 

Hall, and was interested until May 1, 1892, as partner in this and other firms, which 
were outgrowths of the oi ijinal concern. On relirin<r from the firm of Clark & Wood, 
he took charge of the wholesale provision department, which he now carries on. In 
politics a Republican, he has held various town offices. He is president of the Fort 
Plain & Richfield Springs railroad, and is the owner of 5,000 acres of land, divided 
into twenty-nine farms, located a few miles from Fori Plain. He niiuried Rexie, 
daughter of B. W. Wood. 

Casler Family, The. — Adam Ca.sler married Mary Sitts, and had the following family , 
John A., who died in Minden ; Adam, died in Columbia: Jacob, died in Oneida county ; 
Nichola.s, died in Canada; Isaac died young; Elizabeth, married Henrv Latterv and 
died'in Stark; Mary, married John Casler and died in Palatine; and Anna, married 
Gotlieb Bush and died in Jlinden. Adam, died in Minden, March 10, 1846, aged eighty- 
one years; his wife died September 24, 1848, aged eighty-four years. Of the above 
family, Peter A. was born in Minden, where he died October 19, 1869, aged seventy- 
two years, four months and two days. He married first Caty Fox, who died April 7, 
1836, aged thirty-nine years; second, Elizabeth Saltsman, who died April 3, 1854, aged 
sixty-one years, eleven months and twenty-eight day?. They had nine children, viz.: 
Maria, widow of Archibald Littner, resides in Minden; Nancy, wife of J. H. Brook- 
man of Minden; Isaac N. lives at Danube; Adam P. died at Minden; Betsey lives in 
Minden ; John P., born in Minden, October 24, 1827, married first Catharine Van Camp, 
who died in Minden ; second, Catharme Wiles. He lives in Minden and has no chil- 
dren. In politics he is a Democrat, and has been excise conimi.=sioner. Peter, born in 
Minden, September 17, 1829, married Elizabeth, daughter of Henry I. Wiles, and has 
had four children: Jennie, who died aged four and a half years; Seward, Cattie and 
Anna. He is a Democrat and has been commissioner of highways and school trustee. 
Henry died young, in Minden, and Catharine married Ephraim Wagner, and died in 
Minden. 

Casler, John, Minden, was a revolutionary soldier, and had four sons, Jacob, Adam 
Philip and Nicholas. Jacob, the first mentioned, was born in Minden and removed to 
Orleans, Jefferson county, where he died. He married Nancy Stitts, and had six chil- 
dren : John, who died in Springfield; Mary, who married James Bander and died in 
Orleans; Jacob, who died in Racine, Wis. ; Abraham, who died in Springfield; Peter, 
who died in Orleans ; and Nicholas J., who is the only survivor of the family. He was 
born in Minden, June 18, 1808, and married for his first wife, Lany, daughter of Joseph 
Fox, and they had nine children ; Mo.ses, who died aged thirteen years; Rufus lives in 
Minden; Sanford, resides in Ypsilanti, Mich.; Eli, resides in Minden; Maria, wife of 
Isaiah Sitterly. of Palatine; David, a Methodist clergyman, located at Michigan; Har- 
vey, a Methodist clergyman at present located at Cold Brook, Herkimer county Mar- 
tha, wife of David Fox, of Minden; and Irving, died aged eight months Nicholas J. 
married for his second wife Mary, daughter of John Roof of Stark. He was Republi- 
can in politics and was assessor of the town of Minden two terms. He was connected 
with the state militia aliout fifty years ago and held the rank of captain. In his ear'y 
life he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed eight years, when he purchased 



26 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

a farm near Brookman Corners, which he carried on till 18G4, when he removed to his 
present residence in Frey's Bush. 

Carson, Lester, Glen, one of nine ciiildren of Martin and Christiana (Moyer) Carson, 
was born in Root. March 4, 1848, the others being Ann, Peter, Urban, Elislia, and 
Caroline (all deceased) ; and John M., Isaac, and Elizabeth, wife ot Abram Miller. 
Martin, the father, was one of six children of Martin Carson, who was born in Rhode 
Island and came to Root in early life. His wife was Prudence (Codner) Carson. 
Christiana Moyer, the mother, was one of eight children of John and Elizabeth (Meagley) 
Moyer of Herkimer county. Lester Carson married, on October 5, 1887, Frances E., 
one of six children of Frederick and Mary (Cox) Simpson of Albany, the others being 
Edward, Benjamin, Theophilus, Elliot and Florence. Mr. Carson is a carpenter and 
builder by trade, and has always lived in the town of Glen. The paternal grandfather 
of Martin (father of our subject) was John Carson, who married Anna Crum. His 
maternal grandfather was Stephen Codner, who married Sarah Rodgers. The paternal 
grandfather of Lester Carson was Martin Carson, who married Prudence Codner. The 
paternal grandfather of the motlier of Lester Carson was Henry Moyer, who married 
Christiana Lathers; and her maternal grandfather was John Meagley, who married 
Catharine Sail. Her father was John Moyer, who married Elizabeth Meagley. 

Cross, Walter B., Glen, was born May 14, 184G, in the town of Florida, he being 
one of five children of Walter and Susan T. (Brown) Cross. Walter Cross, the father, 
was born in the town of Cobleskill, September 3, 1814, and was one of three children 
of James Cross, who was the son of Amos and Hannah (Austin) Cross, who moved 
from Dutchess county to Cobleskill in 1782. Their children were Latham, Polly, Sally, 
Jeremiah, Joseph and James, the grandfather of our subject; also Phoebe, Jo.shua, Aus- 
tin and Margaret. The other children of Walter and Susan T. Cross were Jerome, 
Wellington, J. Howard (dead), and Addie M. (Mrs. E. P. Jennings). Walter B. was 
married in December, 1868, to Elizabeth Ostrom, one of eight children of Stephen and 
Ann M. (Edwards) Ostrom of Glen. They have three children: Susan B., Antionette 
and Edward 0. Mr. Cross has lived in Fultonville seventeen years, being for many 
years engaged in the grocery business, but is now one of the proprietors of what was 
formerly the Van Antwerp Steam Elevator and whi^jh is operated under the firm of 
W. B. Cross & Co., and is doing a large and increasing business. Wellington Cross 
was born in Florida, May 14, 184G, he btfmg a twin brother of Walter B. Cross. 
He was married January 28, 1874, to Diantha L. Van Heusen, daughter of Franklin 
and Eliza (Smith) Van Heusen of Tribes Hill. They have five children : Henriette 
Y. B., Harry F., James Bailey, Ray Sheldon, and Willard J. Cross. Mr. Cross has 
always been engaged in business in Fultonville as a merchant and insurance agent. 

Carson, Isaac, Glen, was born in Root, April 6, 1840, he being one of eight children 
of Martin and Ann (Moyer) Carson. The others were John M., Lester, Elizabeth, 
(wife of Abram Miller), all living, and Peter, Urban, Blisha, and Caroline (all deceased). 
Martin Carson, the father, was born in Glen, and was one of seven children. Tlie 
others were Stephen, Elisha, John, Isaac, Daniel and Ann, wife of Enoch Pruyn. Ann 
(Moyer) Carson was born in the town of Root, one of eight children of John Moyer. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 27 

The others were Henry, John, Peter, Catherine (wife of Samuel Walker), Iila, EHen 
(wife of G-eorge Esters), and Elizabeth Moyer (deceased). The grandfatlier, Jlartin 
Carson, was born in Rhode Island and canne to Glen in early life. Isaac Carson mar- 
ried July 3, 1862, Josephine Barlow, one of eight children of Raymond and Beersheba 
(Ryder) Barlow of Glen. The others were Melissa, wife of J. N. Tallmage ; Elizabeth, 
wife of William Dunlap ; Lucy, wife of William R. Fero ; Elthea, wife of Peter Carson ; 
Celia, wife of Harrison Dingman ; William Henry (deceased), Sarah and Sheldon Bar- 
low. They have five children : Raymond, Meli-ssa, Ida. Etta and Lena ; and one grand- 
child, a daughter of Raymond Carson, named Maud. 

Countryman, Julius Edgar, Canajoharie, was born in Danube, Herkimer county, 'Feb- 
ruary 8, 1850, a son of William and Katy A. (Cronkhite) Countryman. His boyhood 
was spent on the farm in Danube and in attending school in Minden. When he was 
fourteen his father bought the farm in Canajoharie where he now lives. On April 23, 
1879, our subject married Elizabeth M. Empie, daughter of Alanson Empie of Sharon, 
and they have three children : Virgin B., born August 5, 1882 ; Theresa, born June 20, 
1884; Percy A., born September 5, 1887. Mr, Countryman has always taken an active 
interest in the success of the Republican party, but is not an office seeker. He, in 
company with Mr. Van Wie, were the first organizers of the Mapleton Grange. Mrs. 
Countryman is also an active member of the Reformed church at Mapleton. 

Countryman, Milton, Ames, was born at Minden on the 24th of June, 18.52, and is a 
son of William and Caty Ann (Cronkhite) Countryman, both of Minden and of German 
origin. At the age of twenty-four he graduated at the Albany Business College, and 
was then employed as head teacher in the Paterson (N. J.) Business College for nearly 
a year. Then returning home he purchased a farm of James Sprucker, which he owned 
for three years, and then unfortunately lost his wife, after which he located in Ames 
and traveled in the west for several months. On his return he bought out A. B. Leh- 
man's general merchandise business, which he conducted for over five year.s, and was 
appointed postmaster by President Harrison May 13, 1888. In 1892 he sold his store 
business, retaining his postmastership. also purchased the Wells estate (in Ames) and 
devoted his time as agent for agricultural machinery and church and school furniture. 
His father is a farmer, living in Canajoharie ; his great-grandfather was a soldier in the 
revolutionary war, and his grandfather (George E.) was a farmer and lived at Ford's 
Bush, Minden. Mr. Countryman is the youngest of three brothers, all farmers, living 
in this town. In politics he is a Republican. He has married twice, first to Mary 
Winne, who died in February, 1884; in 1888 he married Viola, a daughter of Menzo 
G-arlook of Ames. He had two children by his first wife (Winnie and Elizabeth), and 
one son by his second wife. 

Chase, Mr.s. Lucretia, Canajoharie, Buel p. o., was a daughter of Phoeni.x and Sarah 
fCorcoran) Lane, and is the widow of Oliver Chase. The latter was born March 4, 
1825, and was a son of Oliver and Ruth Darrow Chase. The ancestry of this family on 
the father's side is of English descent, and the name is one of the oldest in the history 
of the county. Oliver was born near Ames, but when eleven years of age his parents 
moved to Buel. He was educated at Ames Academy, and always followed farming. 



28 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

In 1852 he bought the farm where our subject now resides. It includes fifty acre.s, and 
is devoted to the cultivation of hops, hay and general farming. July 1. 1S52, he was 
married to Liicretia Lane, and their union has been blessed by two children, but only 
one is living: Sarah, wife of Walter D. Schuyler, a machinist of New York. Mr. Chase 
died December 30, 1882, and the son, Charles 0., was born November 1, 1857, and was 
foremost in working for the rebuilding of the church which has been closed some years. 
He did not live to see it completed, and died September 19, 1876. The daughter, Safah, 
was married February 4, 1884. Mrs. Chase is an active member of the Ruel Presbyterian 
church, as is her daughter also. 

Seeber, H. Clay, Canajoharie, Marshville p. o., was born on the farm where he now 
resides, in the town of Canajoharie February 2, 1845, and was a son of ^A'illiam H. 
and Catherine M. (Van Vechten) Seeber. William Seeber, great-grandfather of our 
subject, located within half a mile from H. Clay's present home. He was born June 
13, 1747, and married Elizabeth Schnerr, born in Germany, October 17, 17G4. They 
were the parents of seven children: One of the sons, Adolphus, was born in 1773, and 
was married to Sally P. Yates of Canajoharie, daughter of Col. C. P. Yates. They 
were the parents of eight children, and William A., father of our subject, was the second 
son. He was born January 1, 1805, and always lived on the farm. He married Cath- 
erine M. Van Vechten of the town of Mohawk, January 23, 1841, and they were the 
parents of five children : Annie, wife of Judge Finn of San Francisco ; Lucinda of 
Canajoharie; Celia, wife of George T. Finn of Brooklyn; Chester, a lawyer of San 
Francisco, and Harry H. Clay, our subject. He was educated in the public schools and 
also at Bowman's Select School at Albany. At his father's death he assumed control 
of the farm and has since successfully conducted it. December 23, 1875, he married 
Alice T. Van Evera of Canajoharie, and they have three children : Herbert V., born 
November 4, 1877 ; Florence W., born December 17, 1879, and Elizabeth, born May 
30, 1881. Mr. Seeber is a member of the Reformed church and has held the ofSce of 
deacon in that church. He is not a professed politician, but is an ardent supporter of 
the Democrat ticket and its candidates. He conducts a large farm of 160 acres, 130 
under cultivation for hay and gram, and a dairy of fifteen cows. This property has 
been in this family for five generations, and H. Clay has every reason to be proud of 
bearing the name of one who was among the earliest settlers of our county. 

Clapper, Peter S., Mohawk, Fonda p. o. (son of George W.), was born August 16, 
1839. In 1863 he married Margaret Dugan of Albany county, and in 1871 came to 
Amsterdam, where he was a carder in the knitting mill. August 16, 1887, he moved 
to Berryville and established a shoddy mill, and has carried on business since at that 
place. He employs six men and does a good business. He has three children living: 
John, Hannah and Peter S. His ancestors were early settlers of Claverack, Columbia 
county. His mother was Maria, daguhter of Holmes Tipple. Her family were all born 
in the same town, and were of Dutch ancestry. Mr. and Mrs. Clapper are members of 
St. Cecilia's Roman Catholic church at Fonda. 

Coolman, Peter W., Mohawk, son of Peter, was born December 7, 1858, and is a 
farmer, residing on the homestead. He married, in 1888, Orvetta Cook of Palatine, 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 29 

daughter of Jacob C. Cook, and tliey have one daugfhter, Marion Bertelle, born July 12, 
1892. Peter Coolman, father of our subject, was a son of William and was born April 
10, 1814, in the town of Palatine. He married, in 1838, Betsey Wick, by whom he 
had six children. She died in 1854, and later on he married Mary A. Vechte of Johns- 
town. Their three children are Mary J., wife of Rufus Suits, residents of Brooklyn ; 
John and Peter, the latter two residing in Mohawk. Mr. Coolman died January 21, 
1889. He settled in the town of Mohawk in 1847, and filled the office of as.sessor for 
six years. His widow resides with her son Peter. Wdliam, grandfather of our sub- 
ject, was born in the town of Palatine and married Miss Scott, by whom he had three 
sons and four daughters. His father was a soldier in the war of the revolution, and 
fought at the battle of Stone Arabia under Colonel Brown. His gun (with which he 
killed an Indian) is in the possession of his great-grandson Peter. The family is of Ger- 
man descent. 

Christraan, Morris, Mohawk, Fonda p. o., son of John and Nellie (Miller) Christman, 
was born in the town of Palatine, February 12, 1832, where he resided until 1886, at 
which time he settled in Mohawk. He married Orinda Kincaid of Palatine, a daughter 
of Theophilus. and they have two children, John and Adella, the latter a farmer and 
dairyman. John Christman was born in Palatine in 1808 and died December 23, 1890. 
He was a son of Jacob Christman, who was in the war of 1812. John had four chil- 
dren : Morris, William C, Mary, wife of Jerry Vosburg, and Charles. Nellie, wife of 
John Christman, died in 18G6. 

Chase, Dewitt Clinton, was born in Duanesburg, Schenectady county, October 22, 
1816. His grandparents, Ebenezer and Susannah (Sheldon) Chase, were born in the 
town of Anienia, Dutchess county. The Chase family emigrated from Wales. Dewitt 
C. Chase was married November 23, 1854. to Jane L. Dakin of Hillsdale, Columbia 
county. They have one son, Clarence D. Chase, who is in the railroad business and 
located at Northampton, Mass. Jane L. (Dakin) Chase was one of five children of 
Joshua and Harriet (Burton) Dakin. Joshua Dakin was one of eleven children of 
Jacob and Olive (Clauk) Dakin of North East, Dutchess county. Joshua Dakin, the 
fatlier of Jacob Dakin, removed from Patterson, Putnam county, to North East, Dutch- 
ess county, in 1767. Simon Dakin, father of Joshua Dakin, who had lived near Boston 
before he was located at Patterson, moved to North East in 1773, and was pastor of 
the Baptist church at that place till his death, which occurred in 1803. Harriet Burton 
Dakin was one of eleven children of Elijah and Lucy (Colhn) Burton. The father of 
Elijah Burton was Judah Burton ; his father was Isaac, his father Jacob, his Isaac, his 
father John, thus tracing the ancestry back to Boniface, who lived in what is now 
Lynn, Mass., and who was 113 years old at the time of his death. 

Clute, Richard, Mohawk, Fonda p. o. (son of Andrew), settled in the town of Charles- 
ton about 1844, and carried on the John Schuyler farm. He married Sarah Baird of 
Charleston, in 1838, and she died in 1845, leaving four children. Richard died about 
the year 1881. Christopher B., son of Richard, was born November 30, 1842. He 
came to Charleston with his father when two years of age. At the death of his mother 
he was adopted by his uncle, Abram C. Baird, and lived with him until August 25, 



30 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

1862, when he enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Fifty-Third New York Vol- 
unteers. He was in eight engagements and a number of skirmishes, and received an 
honorable discharge October 2, 1865, at Savannah. He was never wounded, but lost 
his health in the army by fever. The One Hundred and Fifty-Third Regiment partici- 
pated in the following battles: Sabine Cross Road, Louisiana, April 8, 1864; Pleasant 
Hill, La., April 9, 1864; Cane River Crossing, La., April 23, 1864; Mansure Plains, 
La., May 14, 1864; Winchester, Va., September 19, 1864; Opequan, Va., (same day); 
Fisher Hill, Va., September 22, 1864; Cedar Creek, Va., October 19, 1864; beside a 
number of severe skirmishes. After his return home Mr. Clute learned the harness- 
maker's trade of Jeremiah Borst, of Cobleskill. In 1871 he married Mary E. Dodge, 
daughter of Asa P. Dodge of Glen, and they had five children. In the year of 
his marriage he went to Westmoreland, Oneida county, and opened a harness shop, 
remaining there seven years. In 1878 he located in Fonda, where he has ever 
since remained. He has been trustee of the village, and is a member of Van De- 
veer Post, No. 57, G. A. R. ; he was commander three years, and was re-elected 
in the fall of 1891. He is also a member of the Improved order of Red Men, No. 
121, and is past sachem and past prophet of his tribe. 

Crause, Leonard I., St. Johnsville, was born where he now resides, November 28, 
1837, and is a son of Peter and Lavina (Fry) Crause. Leonard, the grandfather (whose 
father was an early pioneer) was born in Fulton county and was a soldier in the war of 
1812. He died in the winter of 1865, aged seventy-five, having held numerous town 
offices. He married Sallie Loadwic, by whom he had two children. Peter and Nancy 
Nellis. He was a member of the F. & A. M. His wife died about 1870, aged seventy 
years and their son, Peter, who was born in Fulton county in March, 1816, died in St. 
Johnsville in September, 1891. He served in several town offices and was a Democrat 
and a Mason. His wife died in 1883. They had six children : Leonard I., Alpha, Lena, 
Amos, Milford, and one who died in infancy. Leonard I. received a common school 
education and in August, 1862, enlisted in Company B, 115th New York Volunteers. 
He was captured at Harper's Ferry. He was sent to Annapolis, and thence to camp 
at Chicago. After being exchanged was with the regiment in South Carolina. He was 
in the battles of Olustee, Chesterfield Heights and Cold Harbor. He was under Gen- 
eral Butler, and was at Fort Fisher, Raleigh, Goldsboro, and was mustered out at 
Raleigh in June, 1865, and di.'charged at Albany July 3d of that year. On his return 
home he engaged in farming and now owns a homestead of seventy-five acres. In 
politics he is a Democrat. On January 1, 1873, he married Clara, daughter of Simeon 
and Mary (Gray) Claus, of Montgomery county. 

De Graff, Alonzo H., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam on the 12tli 
of December, 1846, and was educated in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. 
He enlisted twice, first on the 1st of June, 1862, in Company C, 25th N. Y. S. N. 
Guard, an then re-enlisted June 17, 1863, in Company M, 14th N. Y. Heavy Artillery, 
and was promoted to first sergeant, tiien to second lieutenant, and also to first lieuten- 
ant, and was discharged as captain of the same company in September, 1865. He is 
by prote,ssion a civil engineer and has had charge of the construction of several impor- 
tant railways, and is now superintendent of the Amsterdam water works. On the 15th. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 31 

of December, 1875, he married Mary M., youngest daughter of Fay Smith, of North- 
ampton, Fulton county. They have five Hving children: Harry W., Helen M., Carlton 
R., Mary and Alonzo H., jr. Mr. De Graff's father, Harmonius, was born at the old 
home in the year ISOO, and married Susan Thonja.s, the latter a native of Scotland. 
They had six children, three of whom are living: Helen M. Schofield, who resides in 
New York ; Alonzo H., and Susan D. Miller, who resides in Michigan. The ancestry 
of the family is Dutch and Scotch. Captain De GrafT has the distinction of engineering 
the present extensive Amsterdam water works wliich fully prove his skill in hydraulic 
apparatus. The city is thus supplied, from a distance of twenty-five miles, with an 
abundant supply of pure water, which is one of the most inestimable of eailhly bless- 
ings. 

Dickson, John W., Amsterdam, Fort Johnson p. o., was born in Rotterdam, Schenec- 
tady county, August 12, 1858, and is the son of Anderson C. and Nancy B. (Vunk) 
Dickson. Anderson C. was a farmer in Rotterdam and John W. was educated in the 
public fichool in that village, but when he was eighteen years old his father sold his farm 
and moved to Amsterdam, where our subject engaged in the Globe Knitting mill for two 
years, after which he became delivery clerk for John McClumpton where he remained 
until 1883. Later on he engaged with A. V. Morris & Co., as shippmg clerk and has 
since held that position, having now full charge of the packing and shipping depart- 
ment in mill No. 2 at Fort Johnson. May 27, 1879, he married Martha Van Al- 
stiiie, daughter of Martin and Eliza (Potter) Van Alstine of Fort Johnson. Mr. Dickson 
is one of a family of ten children, eight of whom are still living: Ezra of Amsterdam; 
William, a furniture dealer of Amsterdam ; Jane of Northville; Elizabeth, Dennis, Ella, 
and Sarah of Amsterdam. Mrs. Dickson has one brother, A. P. Van Alstine of Am- 
sterdam. Mr. and Mrs. Dickson are among the leaders of the Fort Johnson Church 
society. They were of the first promoters and leaders in the formation of the Y. P. S. 
C. E., and in the building of their chapel at Fort Johnson. Mrs. Dickson has charge of 
the children's class meeting. This is a class formed in 1888, first by three children 
meeting at her home and bringing others with them, until now she is the leader of the 
class of forty-three members. They hold their meetings in the chapel Sunday after- 
noons. Some fruit has been gathered from this class. Three are members of the 
church, two others are converted, a full proof of Mrs. Dickson's earnest and faithful 
work for Christ and the Church. It is to be hoped that this couple may see the full 
fruition of their eflfort. Mr. Dickson has been class leader at Fort Johnson since 
188G. 

De Graff, Nicholas I., Amsterdam, Cranesville p. o., was born in the De Grafi' settle- 
ment near where he now lives, June 15, 1809. Magdalen De Graff was bom at the 
same place September 2, 1813, and they were children of Isaac and Elinor (Voorhees) 
De Graflf. Isaac was a son of Jeremiah and Anna (Quackenbush) De Graff Jeremiah 
the grandfather of our subjects, was a son of Isaac, who came to this country during 
the reign of George the third, at which time the early deeds of the property are dated. 
The great-grandfather and grandfather came up the Mohawk in fiat boats from Sche- 
nectady and settled on this old historic spot, which was a grant from the kin''. Hence 
their descendants could relate the memories of what their ancestors had told them of 



32 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

the Indian wars; how they had to hide their valuables and also their stock, to prevent 
depredation. At one time the grandmother stood alone while a party of Indians were 
looking for her husband, having a tomahawk raised over her head which she snatched 
from the Indian ; this saved her life, and .she has often sent her boys out in the woods 
to hide until the savages had left. In 1886, on the 21st of March, the old homestead 
was burned, together with its contents, among them being the ancient records and many 
valuable relics belonging to this historic family. But they have now built a 6ne resi- 
dence in its place. They are the last of the family, and although now in advanced 
years, look back with pride on their old family name, and pleasant recollections of the 
author of this work. Magdalen was a victim of the fire, being badly burned and the 
shook has left her almost an invalid. In those early days there were no churches, and 
the first religious services were held in tVie barn built by the grandfather of our subject. 
An Indian, educated for a missionary, by the name of Samson Occum, officiated at this 
meeting. No one present could start the hymn, and the grandmother of our subject 
asked her little son John, a lad of ten years, to start the tune. The little fellow arose 
and sang the hymn. Isaac De Graff, father of Nicholas, was the first child in the fami- 
ly, and as there were no churches for ministers outside the cities, the mother walked to 
Schenectady, a distance of sixteen miles, and carried her baby to have it christened 
(kadouped was the Dutch word used in those days). She started early on a Saturday 
morning in company with one of her colored women ("slaves " then called), and walked 
barefoot to save her leather shoes, which were then thought to be something too fine 
for common use. Just outside the city limits slie bathed her feet in a stream of water 
running by the roadside, donned her stockings and shoes, and went on her way to the 
house of the minister, where she remained until Monday morning. Then the trio be- 
gan their liomeward journey, where they arrived at tlie close of the day, weary and 
footsore, but doubtless with hearts filled with peace and content. There is another 
pretty story connected with this wife and mother : When she lierself was a baby lying 
in her cradle, her Imsband, then a young lad, came to her home on an errand. After 
asking for what he desired, the mother arose from her chair, saying, '' Rook the baby 
while I wait on you," adding with a pleasant laugh, "she may make a wife for you 
some time." The words proved prophetic. In after years he married the young lady 
whom in babyhood he rocked in her cradle. 

Duell, Seneca P.. Amsterdam, Cranesville p, o., was born in Saratoga county, Janu- 
ary 2, 1831, and is the son of Jason ard Ada (Youngs) Duel!. Three brothers by the 
name came to this country from England, one of whom (Peter) was the ancestor of 
this family. He married Cynthia Clark of Saratoga county, and they were the parents 
of one child, Jason, the father of our subject. Peter Duell died in ISOl. His son 
Jason was born in 1799 and followed faruiing all his life. He owned a fine farm of 150 
acres in Saratoga county, where his children were born, two sons and five daughters; 
two of the daughters are dead. The names of his children are Volney, Laura Davis, 
Cynthia Barras, and Caroline. Seneca P. was educated in the common schools and 
lived on the farm until he was twenty-three years old, then learned the mason's trade 
and worked at that and carpentry. December 21, 1858, he married Lucy Cheeseman,. 
and thev have three children : Frances A., now Mr. John G. De GrafF, born March 28, 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 33 

18G0; Andrew D., a carpentei' in Sdienectady, born April 23, 18G1 ; and John I. of 
Glenville, who was born February 2, 18fi3, and married, May 6, 1885, Ann M., daugh- 
ter of Thomas E. Romeyn of Glenville, and granddaughter of Rev. Thomas Romeyn. 
In 1875 he bought the farm of forty acres known as the Jacob De Graff farm, where 
he now lives. He has built a fine residence, and improved the properly, and now has 
one of the prettiest places in this section. 

Dwyer, John F., Amsterdam, was born in Ireland, June 20, 1837, and when very 
young came with his parents to Quebec, and afterwards to Troy, where he remained 
until 1854. He followed the plumbing business in various places and came to Amster- 
dam in June, 1860. In August, 1SG2, he enlisted in Company B, Thirty-Second New 
York Volunteers, and at the expiration of the regiment's time, was transferred into the 
signal service of the Army of the Potomac. He was honorably discharged at the close 
of the war as first sergeant. He has been village trustee of Amsterdam for three 
years, and was treasurer of the joint board of Amsterdam and Port Jackson at the time 
the bridge was erected, and mayor of the city in 1890. In 1891 he was elected member 
of the Legislature. He is chairman of the Civil Service Board, and one of the trustees 
of the city hospital. He is president of the only base ball club of its kind that we 
know of in the United States (nine of his own sons). January 10, ISG.i, he married 
Sarah Davis of this city; they have had eleven children, nine are living, all sons: 
Francis A., Mathew, John L., James, William, George. Edward, Lawrence and Joseph. 
In 1883 his son Francis A. was admitted to partnership, and Dwyer & Son now con- 
duct a plumbing, steam, hot water and gasfitting establishment. 

De Graff, J. Teller, Amsterdam, was born in the house in which he now lives on 
the banks of the Mokawk. It is a portion of the old De Graff grant, i,«sued to 
Isaac De Graff by George III. He was born October 11, 1836, and is the son of 
Emanuel and Maria (Mynderse) De Graff. Emanuel was a son of Emanuel De 
Graff, who was the builder of this house in 1804, and the father of five children, 
four boys and one girl. He was a farmer and always lived on the farm with t'^e e.xcep- 
tion of two years when he conducted :\ store in Amsterdam and one year in Schenec- 
tady where he had a soap factory. John Teller was educated in the public schools 
and also a two years' course in Amsterdam Academy under Professor Cavert. He 
has always lived on the farm and at the death of his father he assumed its control. 
January 8, 1861, he married Ella Veeder of Rotterdam, who lived but five months 
after. November 10, 1869, he married Mary J. Ried, daughter of James .and Laura 
Ried, and now have two children, Edward T. and Liiella. Mr. De Graff has always 
been influential in politics, and has held many offices of honor and trust ; was supervisor 
four years, first elected in 1880 when Amsterdam city was a part of the town, serving 
two terms, and was again elected in 1885, after tlie division, serving again two years. 
He is a good business man, his management of real estate and its transfer is of the 
highest order. His son Edward is rapidly rising to take his father's place, pnd now 
holds the position of teller in the Farmers' National Bank of Amsterdam. 

Davis, Gordon J., Amsterdsm, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in Waterford, August 
17, 1859, and is the son of David G. and Elizabeth A. (Cannell) Davis. He spent 



34 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

his early life at home, attending the graded school until he was eighteen years of age. 
His father died when he was a child, but his mother, by dint of hard work, and judi- 
cious management, gave him a good education. In 1879 he entered the drug store of 
J. Higgins & Co. to study for a pharmacist, for which profession he passed the state 
examination at Albany, October 17, 1884. He remained with this firm two years after 
receiving his certificate, then came to Hagaman's Mills and opened on his own ac- 
count. It was up-hill work for several year.", but Mr. Davis has now gained the con- 
fidence of the people, has built up a fine trade and conducts one of the prettiest drug 
stores the writer has had the pleasure of visiting. June '27, 1888, he married Hattie 
L., daughter of R. D. Palmateer, formerly editor of the Water/ord Advertiser, and they 
are now the parents of one child, Louise, born July 16, 1891. 

De Graff, John H., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Mohawk, Montgomery 
county, on the 2d of September, 1835, and was educated in the common schools and 
the old stone academy. In his early boyhood he learned to be a carpenter and cabinet 
maker. In the year 1865 he came to Amsterdam and was manager of a fiirniture 
factory, and in the year 1873 he became associated with William Serviss. They pur- 
chased the site of the Mudge Hollow Flouring Mills in connection with the saw-mill, 
later on a cider-mill was added, and I hey are doing business under the firm of Serviss 
& De Graff. He was married twice, first on the 3d of December, 1857, to Naomi 
Deuslar of the town of Ephratah. She died on the 14th of December, 1860. On the 
3d of March, 1863, he married Caroline, only daughter of Edwin and Caroline (Davis) 
Conklin. They have had three children ; two died young and one daughter survives, 
namely, Carry May, a graduate of the Misses Bell's school of Amsterdam, who resides 
with her parents. Mr. De Graff's father, John J., was born in the town of Mohawk 
about the year 1811. He married Phebe Godwin, of Fulton county, by whom he had 
two children, one son and one daughter, John H. and Mary C. The latter married 
Augustus L. George of Fonda. Mr. De Graff's great-grandfather Godwin, was in the 
revolutionary war, and died on a prison ship in New York harbor. The ancestry of 
the family is Dutch and Welch. Major John Davis, great-grandfather of Mrs. De Graff, 
was born at East Hampton, Long Island. He married Puah Parsons, May 14, 1772. 
He served during the revolutionary war a major in Col. Livingston's regiment ; was 
with Washington. He was taken prisoner by the British at Sag harbor, Long Island, 
and died January 10, 1782, on board the Jersey prison ship. His widow with her five 
children — William, Abigail, John Parsons (grandfather of Mrs. De Graff), Ashael and 
Ramus, located at Amsterdam on a tract purchased with money from the sale of land 
granted her by the government. She also owned large tracts of land in Ohio and the 
western part of New York. Her son Ramus settled in Ohio. She died January 29, 
1832. Col. John P. Davis (grandfather of Mrs. De Graff), was born at Lyme, Conn., 
November 4, 1777 ; was married to Susannah AUin June 1, 1805, and died July 31, 
1848. He at one time owned 600 acres in Montgomery county, where he lived until 
his death. James Allin (great-grandfather also of Mrs. De Graff) was born in Rhode 
Island February 25, 1744 ; was an early settler of Amsterdam, and a member of the 
legislature. For further particulars regarding Major John Davis, lookatSimms' history 
of the Schoharie County and Border Wars of New York, and history of the Davis family 
which was published a few years ago. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 35 

Dunlap, Barlow W., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Charleston November 9, 
1856. and was educated in the public school and at Amsterdam Academy. Taught 
school for three years, two of which he was principal of the Fifth Ward School in this 
city. He first studied law with W. W. Dawley, afterwards with J. A. Serviss, and was 
admitted to the bar on the 10th of September, 1880. He has practiced law here since 
and was elected to the assembly in 1888 and 1890. On the 24th of December, 1878, he 
married Annie, only daughter and child'of Newton and Adelaide Howe, of this city. 
They have one son, Clarence Howe Dunlap, who was born on the 8th of March, 1882. 
Mr. Dunlap's father (William H.) was born at the old home in Charleston in November, 
1827. He is now a summer hotel keeper at Asbury Park. He married Elizabeth 
Barlow of Glen. They had three children : W. Barlow, Nellie, who married EobertA. 
Parker, and Emma, who married John E, Orchard. Joseph, the grandfather, was born 
in Charleston in 1803. His great-grandfather Joseph came to Charleston in 1791. 
Their ancestry is Scotch. 

Dowsland, James Ralph, Amsterdam, was born in Westmoreland, Oneida county, 
May 8, 1842. Received a common school education. Enlisted the first year of the 
civil war in Company I., Third New York Volunteers, and was honorably discharged 
at the expiration of two years with rank of corporal. He then went to Toledo, 0., 
where he accepted a position in a hardware store. February 12, 1867, he married 
Amelia, only daughter of Abraham Halleck of his native town. Mr. Dowsland belonged 
to the Masonic Order was a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, also of the 
Knights of Pythias, and a supporter of the Uniform Rank connected with the latter 
order. He had been promoted to major of the Second Regiment, and was colonel of 
the same when he died. He came to Amsterdam in 1877 and established a large grocery 
house ; was considered by all as a model in uprightness and fair dealing, and was an 
earnest Christian. In politics an adherent to the Republican party. He died October 
12, 1889, at his residence, 74 Division street. 

De Graff, Nicholas Jeremiah, Amsterdam,' was born in the village of Amsterdam on 
the 9th of June, 1842, the home in which he first saw the light being one of the land 
marks of "ye olden time," and is still standing near the Central depot. He was edu- 
cated in the public schools and at Amsterdam Academy. In early life he was a farmer 
but when the tocsin of war sounded through the land his heart beat in unison with tlie 
noble volunteers, who early responded to their country's call to arms. On the 3d of 
July, 1862, he enlisted in Company D, One Hundred Fifteenth New York Volunteers. 
He was soon promoted from the ranks to the position of second lieutenant, afterwards 
to first lieutenant and acting adjutant. At the close of the war he was honorably dis- 
charged. He served his country with honor and distinction, and upon his return to 
Albany was brevetted captain for gallant and -flieritorious conduct. On the ]5tb of 
October, 18G8, he married Debbie, third daughter of Luther and Nancy Young of Tribes 
Hill. They have two children, one son and one daughter, Herbert E. and Laura Y. 
He is a Pre.';byterian and holds the office of deacon, and in politics he is a Republican 
and temperance man. His father (Emanuel) was born at the old home and married 
Maria Mynderse of Guilderland Center, Albany county. They had five children, four 



36 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

sons and one daughter : John T., Myndert M., Nicholas, Elizabeth and Emanuel E. 
The ancestry of the family is Holland Dutch and French. In 1873 Mr. DeGraffen- 
gaged in the boot and shoe business at 29 East Main street, Amsterdam, which he still 
coiilinues at the same place. He is a descendant of revolutionary stock, and an ancestor 
(Nicholas De Graff) was killed in Glenville by the Indians and French in July, 1748. 
Another Nicholas De Graff was engaged at the battle of Oriskany, August 6, 1777. 

Dean, Frank S., Am.sterdani, was born in Amsterdan May 20, 1SG4. He was edu- 
cated m the graded schools of the city, and has been^engaged in the capacity of clerk 
since his school days, having for some years been clerk with De Graff & Kline in the 
hardware business. May 12, 188G, he married Lida Adella, youngest daughter of Clark 
P. and Frances R. Havvley of Johnstown. Mr. Dean's father (William H.) was born 
at Port Jackson May 9, 1S09, and married Eunice A. Huntley of Phoenix, Oswego 
county. They had two children, Chauncey E., who married Kittie M. Roth of this 
city, and Frank S. His grandfather, Nathan Huntley, was in the war of 1812. The 
ancestry of the family is Dutch and Scotch. 

De Graff. Gilbert C, Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam within a few 
rods of his present residence, April 22, 1849, and is the son of Daniel and Eliza (Con- 
nor) De Graff. Daniel De Graff was a son of Isaac and Elinor (Yoorhees) De Graff'. 
Isaac was born near Cranesville July 3, 1770, and was the father of five children, of 
which Daniel, father of our subject, was the youngest. He was born April 29, 1819, 
and always lived at De Graff Corners until his death, which occurred March 29, 1888, 
leaving four children : Jesse I. and Gilbert C. by his first wife, and James L. and Luella 
M. by his second wife. Gilbert's boyhood was like that of all others who live at home 
and attend at first the public .ehool. When he was about eighteen he entered the Am- 
sterdam Academy where he finished his education in 1869. November 30, 1871, he 
married Cornelia C. Wessel, daughter of John and Nancy Wessel of the town of Am- 
sterdam, and they are the parents of two children : Arthur, born March 29, 
1874, and Bertha, born October 3, 1S7C. Mr. De Graff lives on a plot of twoand one- 
half acres of his own, where he has erected a cosy residence and new out-buildings, 
next door to the old homestead, which he conducts as a dairy farm, finding a ready 
market in Amsterdam. 

De Graff, Oscar, Amsterdam, youngest son of John G. and Magdelen A. (Pollock) 
De Graff, was born April 4, 1863, on he old homestead one mile east of Amsterdam, 
on the north bank of the Mohawk. He was educated at the district school and Am- 
sterdam Academy, and at the age of twenty-one left home to study telegraphy. A few 
months afterward he took charge of the railroad office at North Java, and later worked 
for the W^tern Union Telegraph company at Amsterdam, and in the fall of 1889 be- 
gan working for the Fitchburg and West Shore railroads at Rotterdam Junction as 
operator. He stayed there until April 1, 1892, when he purchased the Bronson farm, 
situated near his old home, and which was the former home of his wife, whereon her 
Barents had lived for nearly forty years. He was married November 27, 1890, to Fan- 
nie V. Bronson, daughter of Mrs, W. J. Bronson of Amsterdam. Her father, William 
J. Bronson, came to this country from England and settled at Hagaman's Mills. He 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 37 

left there to buy the farm where Mr. De Graff is now located. He died October 28, 
1885, leaving nine children: Sarah, now Mrs. Donald Grant; Jane E., the late Mrs. 0. 
E. Collins; Louisa; Lottie, now Mrs. H. Bruillard ; William N.; Mary Belle ; and Fan- 
nie, wife of our subject. 

Devendorf, Dr. Henry A., Florida, was born in Sharon June 30, 182C. He was a son 
of Abrarn H. (who wa.s born September 30, 1801, and died January 12, 1872) and 
Catharme (Ehle) Devendorf, who was born August 12, 1802, and whose ninetieth 
birthday was celebrated by her descendants in August. 1892. The grandfather was 
Henry Devendorf, who was born in 1772 and died in 1834. His father was Captain 
Henry Devendorf, a soldier of the revolution, captain of Company 5, First battalion, 
Canajoharie, and who was killed at the battle of Oriskany. Henry A. Devendorf mar- 
ried. December 9, 1851. Rachel Pettingill, born April 12, 1835, a daughter of Henry C. 
(who was born October 18,1800, and died May 26, 1885,) and Toinettie Ziely, daughter 
of David and Anna (Newkirk) Ziely. Her grandfather was Cornelius Pettingill, a son 
of Captain Samuel Pettingill and Elizabeth Cline, the former a soldier in the revolu- 
tionary army, and captain of Company 5, Third battalion, Mohawk, who was killed at 
the battle of Oriskany. Dr. Devendorf and wife have had eight children : Nettie, wife 
of WiHard Selmser of Johnstown; Alvin J., who resides at home; Emma C, wife of 
Edward Edwards of Glen; De Witt A. of Fort Hunter ; Mary, wife of C. B.Meding, 
M. D., of New York city; Milton of Florida ; and two ■who died in infancy. {Notes 
from Mrs. Rachel P. Devendorf.) From Germany, Holland and the British Isles they 
came, so long ago ! What tidings from the New World reached them in that far off 
land, I know but little, and that little I remember when over fifty years ago, as we all 
sat around the big fire-place, of a long, stormy, winter evening (afire that always 
burned brightest when the weather was stormy and cold ) some one would say, "Gran- 
ny, tell us a story about the old country." "Dear child,' she would say, " I never 
lived in the old country, but I did live with my grandfather, Martinus Cline. I went 
there when I WRS about thirteen years old. They told me that they heard in that far- 
off land that freedom, peace and great wealth could all be theirs, if they could brave all 
dangers of that then mysterious great width of waters; and then there was something 
said which they hardly could believe — that much money could be gathered from many 
bushes, not knowing how to translate the English into German, which was that much 
money could be realized from many bushels, not bushes. Martinus Cline was the son 
of a well-to-do farmer m High Germany. When quite young he went to Holland to 
seek his fortune. There he married the adopted daughter of a wealthy lady. Their 
first child's name was Elizabeth ; the next was Martinus. He was about ten months 
old when they left their home in Holland ; it was thirteen months before they found a 
home in America, and it was nearly winter when they dug a place and covered it with 
boughs, where they lived tlie first winter, and they afterwards chose that place as a 
burial lot. It can be plainly seen to this day. Francis Laltz came at the same time ; 
an account of which may be seen in the Illustrated History of Montgomery and Fulton 
Counties. Just before they left Holland, the wealthy lady told Elizabeth to come to 
her money chest and there she filled her little apron with silver pieces. The children 
found some time to play on an immense stone then lying opposite the barn in Schoharie 



38 HISTORY OF M0XT(3-0MBRY COUNTY. 

creek, which even now can be seen. My grandmother Pettingill's mother was a daugh- 
ter of Martinus Cline. She married John McGraw. The first work the father of John 
did, when he came to this country, was to make mortar for the old stone fort at Fort 
Hunter (1712). Dr. Samuel Pettingill married Elizabeth, oldest daughter of Martinus 
Cline. Christine McGraw married a son of Dr. Samuel Pettingill. Did they realize 
their dream of freedom, peace and great wealth ? The frontiersman's story is one and 
the same, of all our ancestors. Our children were taught to ''remember their Creator 
in the days of their youth," but sometimes a solemn thouglit oppresses me : If, when 
we come to the judgment seat, it be said to us, " Where are your children ? " we should 
have to say, " While Thy servants were busy here and there they were gone." We are 
thankful we may hope this may not be. 

Dunn. Andrew, Minden, Fort Plain p. o., was born at Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, Scot- 
land, August 9, 1831, and was the only child of David and Helen (Carnduif) Dunn. 
He attended a private school and an academy in his native country. His father was a 
calico printer, and in 1842 emigrated to America, landing in New York. He went to 
Fall River, Mass., but owing to a depression in trade, could not find employment there, 
and came to West Galway, where he remained until the spring of 1844, when he went 
to Stockport, Columbia county, and worked at his trade. Our subject worked in the 
mills with his father. The works where they were employed, being destroyed by fire 
in 1847, they came to Herkimer and Montgomery counties. Andrew, then seventeen 
years o£ age, learned the jewelry trade of James Pooley at Amsterdam, and remained 
with him until the fall of 1S5I, when he came to Fort Plain and commenced busi- 
ness for himself. He was accompanied by his father who also learned the jewelry 
trade, and was connected with his son until his death in 1872. Andrew Dunn pur- 
chased the store he now occupies in 1855 and moved into it in 1856. He has found 
it necessary to alter and enlarge it several times to accommodate his increasing 
business. In 1880 his son David B., and later Andrew G., became partners, making 
the firm A. Dunn & Sons. He is one of the four partners af the Fo;-t Plain Spring 
and Axle Works, and is secretary and treasurer of that company. He is also one of 
the five partners of Dunn, Smith & Co., Fort Plain Knitting Mills, his son David E. 
bein" the managing partner. He is vice-president of the Fort Plain National bank and 
has been a director for twenty-five years. He was secretary and treasurer of the 
Minden Gas Light company from its organization in 1864 until its consolidation with 
the Electric Light company in 1888, and is secretary and trea.surer of the consoli- 
dated company. He is also president of the Fort Plain Cemetery association. A Re- 
publican in politics, he has never sought political honors. In 1855 he married Louise, 
daughter of Nicholas Gros of Palatine, who was a son of Captain Laurence Gros and 
nephew of Rev. Johan Daniel Gros, professor of moral philosophy in Columbia Col- 
lege New York, and one of the early ministers of the church on Sand Hill near the 
fort. Mr. Dunn's family consists of Ellen L., David E. and Andrew G. 

Diefendorf, Willis Eugene, Minden, was born at Sharon Springs, June 5, 1855, and 
is the oldest son in a family of three children of Ephraim G. and Mary A. (Lake) Dief- 
endorf- When our subject was seven years of age his father removed to Fort Plain, 
where he has always lived. At the age of fourteen he became a clerk in J. R. Simm's- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 39 

book and stationery store, where lie remained four years, when he engaged in the 
same business himself, and has continued it ever since. He is identified with several 
of the industries of Fort Plain, and is known throughout the Mohawk valley as a pub- 
lic spirited and successful business man. He is a Republican in politics, and married 
Emma, daughter of Jonathan Eicketts, of Johnstown. 

Dunckel, Dr. Walter Adams, Minden, was born at Fort Plain, February 20, 1869. 
He is the only son of Alvin Adams and Mary (Bleecker) Dunckel. After attending 
the village schools he prepared himself for college at tlie Clinton Liberal Institute, from 
which he graduated in 1887, and attended a course of lectures in the medical depart- 
ment of Columbia College, from which he graduated in 1890. He secured an appoint- 
ment on the staff of St. Luke's hospital of New York, and after service in that hospital 
he returned to Fort Plain, where, since December, 1891, he has practiced his profes- 
sion. He is a Republican in politics. 

Dewey, James Elias, Minden, was born in Jefferson, Schoharie count}', July 17, 1820. 
He is the oldest son of Elias and Mary (Teall) Dewey. After attending the district 
school and a select school kept by Rev. William Salisbury, he went to the Jefferson 
Academy. He spent the years 1837-38-39 in traveling in the south and west, and 
then taught district school. On April 1, 1840, he commenced the study of law with 
Aliraham Becker, at South Worcestei, Otsego county. He afterwards attended the 
Cherry Valley Academy, and read law with Jeremiah E. Carey, who became a mem- 
ber of congress. He commenced the practice of his profession at Cherry Valley in 
18-16, having been admitted to tlie bar in January of that year, at Albany. He contin- 
ued practicing at Cherry Valley until 1860, when he was burned out. He then removed 
to Fort Plain and resided there until the spring of 18G7, but in 1873 removed to Albany, 
where he was engaged in business until 1880,'when he returned to Fort Plain and con- 
tinued in active practice until 1887. In politics a lifelong Democrat, Mr. Dewey has 
never been an aspirant for political honors. He married Miss Sarah E. Wilkins, and 
they have five children, viz. : Sarah (wife of Herbert C. Wood of Fort Plain) ; George 
A.. Edward W. (both residents of New York city); Mary Teall and James E., jr., resi- ' 
dents of Fort Plain. 

Dillenbaok Family, The. — This name was originally spelled by the first settlers 
Dillenbach, but the " h " has been changed to " k," and in some instances " e " is used 
instead of "a" in the last syllable. John Dillenback lived in Palatine, near Stone 
Arabia, where he died. He had twelve children, all of whom, except Conrad and John, 
lived and died in Palatine. The former died in Minden, the latter in Canajoharie. Of 
this family John was the first to die, at the age of sixty-three years. The others all 
lived to be over seventy-seven years of age. The children were as follows: Heniy, 
Andrew, Conrad, John, Benjamin, George, Martin, Daniel, Margaret, who married John 
Dockstader; Elizabeth, who married Theophilus Ingalls ; Nancy, who married Daniel 
Van Wie ; and Phoebe, who married Peter Nestle. Conrad, the son of John, was born 
in Palatine April 16, 1772, and died in Minden October 20, 1849. He married, Novem- 
ber 1, 179G, Margaret Wogleniuth. She was horn October 21, 1774. They had eleven 
children, viz.: Lydia, who died aged three years; John, died young; Henry, born 



40 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

October 26, 1798, died in 1882, at Fort Plain; Solomon, died young; William; Eve, 
born November 25, 1806, vyidov? of Baldus Dillenback, lives in Fort Plain ; Catharine, 
born August 20, 1809, vi-idow of Henry I. Wiles, resides m Minden; Thomas, died 
young; Peggy, born July 24. 1813, married David Wiles, and died at Cherry Valley ; 
James, died young; and Joseph. Conrad removed from Palatine to Minden in 1808, 
and bought the farm now occupied by his grandson, James Dillenback. William (the 
son of Conrad) was born in Palatine, August 14, 1803, and married Catharine, daugh- 
ter of Nicholas Casler. They had twelve children, viz. : Mose.s, a resident of Little 
Fall ; James ; Aaron, lives at Dexter, N. Y. ; Ezra, resides in Minden ; Levi, resides 
in Fort Plain ; Laivna, wife of Charles A. Walrath of Minden ; Lany, widow of 
William H. France, lives in Minden; Mary, wife of Henry Smith of Minden; Catha- 
rine, died aged sixteen; Lydia, wife of Louis Mower of Minden; Jonas, lives at Coble- 
skill' and Almira, wife of John P. Walrath of Richfield Springs. William was brought 
up on the old homestead, where he died June 9, 1875. James, the second son of Will- 
iam was born in Minden, January 12, 1823, and married Maria Hess. They had seven 
children : Rufus, died aged tliirteen ; Betsey Catharine, wife of Irving Van Ness of 
Cannjoharie ; Juliette, wife of Dr. William ZoUer of Fort Plain; Irene, who married 
Jacob J. Wiles, and died in Minden; William, born October 21, 1854, married Ida, 
dauo-hter of J. H. Brookman, and has six children: Eugene, Anna, Jennie, Sherman 
and Grand (twins) and Rufus. William resides on the farm with his father. Seward, 
died young; and George M., born September 22, 1874, married Hattie, daughter of 
Jacob Ehle. They have one child, James G. ; he is a farmer in Minden. James is a 
widower, and has always resided on the farm purchased by his grandfather, and which 
now consists of 200 acres. Jos^eph, the youngest son of Conrad, was born in Minden, 
June 1 1818, and married Margaret, daughter of John A. Casler. They have had three 
children : Norman, died aged twenty years ; Solomon, born September 30, 1844, 
married Mary Catharine, daughter of J. H. Brookman, and they have one child, Emery 
J born March 4, 1879 ; and Mary M., wife of Martin A. Pickard, of Minden. 
Joseph has resided on his present farm of 100 acres since 1843. 

Devoe, Daniel Isaac, Minden. was born in Warren, Herkimer county. January 19, 
1860 and is the only son of a family of four surviving children born to Daniel A. and 
Maria (Snell) Devoe. His father is a farmer, and our subject attended the district 
schools, also the Clinton Liberal Institute, graduating in 1878, after which he took a 
course of study at the Rochester Commercial College. Finishing his studies in 1879, 
he became clerk in the drug store of Petit & Read of Fort Plain. After remaining in 
this position for three years Mr. Devoe went to Canajoharie, and in company with John 
N Snell, opened a drug store, the firm being Snell & Devoe. Mr. Snell disposed of his 
interest to Thomas E. Dygert, and the firm became Devoe &; Dygert. In 1885 Mr. 
Devoe disposed of his interest and came to Fort Plain, and formed with W. S. Shum- 
way the present firm of Devoe & Shumway. In politics a Republican, he was elected 
county treasurer in 1890, his term expiring January 1, 1894. He married Agnes E., 
daughter of Joseph H. Shumway, and they have one child, Ethel. 

Devendorf Family.— The original pioneers of this name were from Switzerland, two 
brothers and a cousin, who came to the Mohawk valley. The latter was killed at the 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 41 

battle of Oriskany under General Herkimer in 1777. Jacob Devendorf located in Min- 
den, where he owned one of the original patents. From him descended Solomon, who 
married Christina, a daughter of another Jacob Devendorf. They had the following 
family : Nancy, who married John P. Smith and died in Onondaga county ; Elizabeth, 
married Peter March, and died in Minden, aged ninety-two years; Polly, widow of 
Nicholas Moyer, lives in Minden ; Peggy, married George Cronkhite and died in Min- 
den ; Christina, married Peter Miller and died in Minden ; Solomon, died in Minden 
in 1851 ; John S., died in Wisconsin; Henry S. and Farley both died in Minden. Sol- 
omon (son of Solomon) was born in Minden May 10, 1807, and married Elizabeth, 
daughter of Abraham ZoUer. Of their five children, viz. : Farley, Abram, Christina, 
Marvin and Melvin (twins), all but the second died young. Solomon was a farmer and 
died in Minden June 10, 1886. Abram, the only survivor of the above family, was born 
in Minden December 25, 1840, was educated in the Fort Plain Seminary, and in 1859 
graduated at the State Normal School at Albany, where he remained two years. He 
then became a student at Duff's College, Pittsburgh graduating in 18G1. He taught 
school in Minden one winter and then engaged in farming, which he followed til! April, 
1S91, when he became connected with the ZoUer Lumber Company of Fort Plain, as 
treasurer, which position he now holds. lie is a Republican, and has been vice-presi- 
dent of the First National Bank of St. Johnsville, and, since the organization of the 
Farmers' and Mechanics' Bank of Fort Plain, has been one of its directors. He mar- 
ried Celia A., daughter of Levi Snell of Minden, and has one child, Irving S. 

Diefendorf, James A., Minden, was born in Minden, April 5, 1822. His grandfather, 
Jacob Diefendorf, married first a daughter of John Brookman, by whom he had the 
following children : Henry, who died in Clay ; Abraham I., Michael, who died at Boon- 
ville. His second wife was a Miss Baum, and their children were Daniel and Jchn I., 
(who both died in Minden) ; James, a physician (died at Milwaukee) ; and Josiah, who 
resides in California. The father of our subject (Abraliam I.) was born in Minden, 
where he died July 28, 1858. He married Elizabeth Lintner, and of their seven chil- 
dren two died young. The others were John Oliver, who died at Fort Plain ; Catharine, 
widow of Peter G. Bush, lives in Minden; Nancy, wife of Chauncey Diefendorf; and 
Maria Eliza, who married Harvey Wendell and died at Albany. James A. had the 
benefit of but a common school education, and worked on his father's farm, which is 
the only one now occupied by Orange Eckler. He afterwards engaged in farming in 
the town of Roseboom, but in 18.52 returned to Minden, where he has smce resided. 
He is a Republican in politics. He married Maria, daughter of Rev. John J. Wendell, 
a Methodist clergyman. Their children were Elizabeth, wife of Eli Cas'er of Minden ; 
Anna Jane, wife of Albert Dunkle of New York, and Emery, who died aged twenty- 
two years. 

Davis, William H., Canajoharie, was born in the village of Canajoharie, October 25, 
1824, a son of John P. and Olive (Stafford) Davis. In 1810 a family (then consisting of 
Richard Stafford and his wife, the grandfather and grandmother of our subject) came to 
this town from Stafford Hill, near Cheshire, Ma.ss., and their descendants still make 
this their home. Richard Stafford died here in 1826. On the father's side we learn 



42 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

that tlie grandfather, Phineas Davis, was a native and resident of Freehold, N. J. His 
son, John P., was born in that town ia 1795 and came to this town at the same time 
with the Stafford family. He was a contractor and builder and erected some of the 
best homes and churches in the Mohawk valley. He was the father of eight children : 
Joel R., died in 1863; Mary married Levi Wagner; Susan married Webster Wagner 
and died in 1887 ; George died in 1863 ; Amelia, wife of Homer P. Williams, of Mon- 
tana, near St. Louis, Mo. ; John P., jr. of New York ; Margaret Elner, who died in in- 
fancy ; and William H., our subject. John P. Davis, sr., died in 18G0. The early life 
of William was spent in this town ; he Was educated in the Canajoharie Academy, and 
when he was nineteen years of age he left home to enter the large grocery and wine 
store of H. & W. J. Averill of Troy. He was sent from there in 1845 to represent 
their interests in Rochester, in the house of Brackett, Averill & Company, a branch of 
their concern ; the same year the old house removed to New York. On the death of 
the senior partner, Horatio Averill, in 1855, Mr. Davis went to New York, where he 
succeeded to the business of the old firm under the firm of Brackett & Company, 
and January 1, 1868, he purchased the Brackett interest, and continued the business 
under the firm of Davis, Clark & Company, having admitted to partnership the young- 
est brother of our subject, John P. Davis. In 1891 Mr. Davis retired from the firm, 
after having been in active business for forty-six years. He left his brother, John P., 
at the head of the house and the business still continues under the firm name of Davis, 
Waters & Company. Mr. Davis has been largely interested since its earliest days in the 
Wagner Sleeping Car Company, besides many other enterprises. He has been a direc- 
tor and vice-president of the Canajoharie National Bank since 1870. He was married 
in 18S3 to Anna Catharine, a daughter of George Geortner of Canajoharie. They had 
four children; Olive Stafford, who married Charles H. Whitaker of Toledo; Edith 
Alliene, who married William S. Hawk, one of the proprietors of the Windsor Hotel 
of New York; the other two children, William G. and Anna C, died in infancy. Mrs. 
Davis died February 10, 1869. Mr. Davis has repeatedly been offered nomination for 
political offices but has always refused, and desires now, after a hfe spent in active 
business, the rest and quiet which would be beyond his power were he a politician. 

Dewey, Amos, Canajoharie, was born about a mile north of Ames, June 6, 1835, and 
is the son of Flavel and Betsey F. (Bingham) Dewey. The great-grandfather of Amos 
B., with his two brothers, were the first of the family in this country, coming here 
from England .and locating in Vermont. The grandfather of Amos B. was Daniel, born 
in Vermont, April 24, 1760. His wife's name was Joanna Button, who was born May 
3, 1769. They had three children: Flavel, Ann and Temperance. Flavel, the oldest 
child, was born in Vermont February 3, 1801, and married Betsey F., daughter of 
Abial and Susan (Fowler) Bingham. Of their five children there are living: Mary, 
wife of Henry A. Jones of Brooklyn ; Charles Henry, an insurance agent at Brook- 
lyn; and Amos B., the subject of these notes. The early life of the latter was spent in 
this town. He was educated at Ames Academy and also at Lowell Academy, and as- 
sisted his father on the farm until January 28, 1858, when he married Louise E., daugh- 
ter of Benjamin and Effie (Armstrong) Jones of Sharon. They had two children, both 
now deceased: Walter L., born October 27, 1858, died May 16, 1873; and Willis J., 



FAMILY SKETCHES 43 

born September 18, 1861, died August 28. 1889. He was engaged in glove manufac- 
turing in Johnstown. In the spring of 1858 Mr. Dewey bought the farm where he 
resides, a beautiful home, in connection with which he owns an apiary of over fifty 
swarms. He has always been a Rupublican, and has held the office of justice of the 
peace for over eighteen years. In 1833 he he was elected justice of session for this 
county. 

Devoe, Daniel, Canajoharie, Fort Plain p. o., was born in the town of Warren, Herki- 
mer county, April 19, 1820. and is the son of Cornelius and Ann (Deyoe) Devoe. 
About 1750 three brothers by this name came from Germany, one settled in Pennsyl- 
vania, one was of a roving disposition and never married or made a home, and the 
other, the great-grandfather of our subject, settled near Schagticoke. His son Anthony 
was born in 1744, and served in the war of the revolution. He married Laney Van- 
denburg of Rensselaer county, and they were the parents of nine children, Cornelius, 
father of our subject, being the second son. He was born April 30, 1797, and always 
lived in Herkimer county and died there in December, 1888. He married Ann Deyoe 
of Pittstown, Rensselaer county in 1819, and they were the parents of six children ; 
three are now living : Wallace G. of Warren ; JuHa A. Ludden of Columbia ; and 
Daniel, our subject. His early life was spent in Herkimer county, and he was edu- 
cated in Springfield High School and Academy. He assisted his fatlier summers and 
taught school winters for six years. When twenty-seven years of age he married 
Maria Snell of Herkimer. May 6, 1847, he leased a farm until 1851, when he bought 
the place, lived on it until 18G3, when he moved to the town of Canajoharie, where he 
bought the farm of 200 acres on which he now lives. They are the parents of six 
children, four of whom are living : Margaret A. Duryee of Everett, Washington ; 
Charlott N., wife of Dr. A. ZoUer of West Union, la. ; Daniel I., druggist of Fort 
Plain ; and Demetra E., wife of Frank W. Bander of Minden. Mr. Devoe is one of 
the active members of the Universalist cliurch at Fort Plain. He has held the office of 
deacon in this church for about ten years, and is considered one of the best farmers 
there is in the town. 

Doxstater, Jacob J., Mohawk, Fonda p. o., was born July 30, 1809, and died Decem- 
ber 10, 1885 He married Eliza, daugliter of Albert Veeder, by whom he liad four 
children. She died December 2, 1847, and later on he married Miss Cornelia Williams, 
by whom he had one child. Jacob J. was a farmer and had 350 acres of land. At his 
death he was considered one of the leading farmers of the town. Daniel, son of Jacob, 
was born November 9, 1840, in Mohawk, and married Emily Dillenback of Palatine, 
daughter of George H. Dillenback. He is a farmer, owning 200 acres of land and a 
large dairy. He is also interested in real estate in Waukegan. 

Dockstader, Henry, Mohawk, son of Frederick, was born in Mohawk April 11, 1778, 
and died October 4, 1866. He married Margaret Eaker of Palatine, and of their thir- 
teen children three are now living: Jacob, who lives at Canajoharie; Benjamin, 
residing at Natural Bridge; and Henry, who was born August 23, 181(1, The latter 
married in 1849 Gertrude Caldwell, and they had five children : Luella (deceased), 
Maggie, Clara, Jennie and Hattie (deceased). Jennie is the wife of Cornelius Lotridge ; 



44 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUXTY. 

Maggie married David H. Wernple ; and Clara lives at home with her parent?. The 
family is of German ancestry. They attend the Dutch Reformed church at Fonda. 
Mr. Dockstader owns a farm o£ 160 acre?. 

Davis, George L., Mohawk, son of John V. and Sarah (Wemple) Davis, was born in 
Mohawk, April 22, 1854. His grandfather Davis was born in Dutchess county, and 
married a Miss Veeder. He came to this county when a young man, and was active 
in politics. He had a family of four sons and four daughters, and was a member of 
the Dutch Reformed church. His son, John V., was born in 1827, and died June 1, 
1874, and was buried with Masonic honors in additional to the usual church services. 
He was a popular man in Fonda for many years, and served three terms as deputy 
sherifi. He was an active Republican, being a frequent delegate to county and state 
conventions. He was also a prominent member of Fultonville Lodge of Free and Ac- 
cepted Masons. His widow is still living, and their children were Richard, who died 
at thirty-five, deeply lamented ; George L., VTillett F., Anna B., Marshall, who died at 
twenty (also a very painful bereavement), and John W. George L. Davis received a 
common school education and engaged in the news business at Fonda when seventeen 
years old, which he carried on until 1889. Since 1880 he has been in the insurance 
business. In 1888 he was elected county clerk and was very popular in that office. 
He was also town clerk for three years, and always was an active Republican. Feb- 
ruary 8, 1892, he was appointed deputy revenue collector, and having turned over the 
news business to his brother John, he is enabled to devote himself to his present en- 
gagements. Mr. Davis is happily married and has a fine boy, and owns a very hand- 
some dwelling and may be considered one of the rising young men of Fonda. 

De Baun, Rev. John A., Mohawk, son of Abram I. and Maria (Van Houten) De 
Baun, was born in Clarkstown, Rockland county, March 6, 1833. The family is of 
Huguenot origin and is identified with ancestral piety. Mr. De Baun graduated from 
Rutgers College in 1852, and three years later from the Theological Seminary of the 
Reformed Church at New Brunswick, N. J., with the degrees of A. B. and A. M. In 
1855 he was stationed at Oyster Bay, L. I., where he remained three years, whence he 
was called to Niskayuna, remaining there twenty-four and a half years and fulfilling 
a faithful and laborious pastorate. In 1883 he accepted a call from the Reformed 
church of Fonda, where he has labored with ability and with great acceptance. On 
July 2G, 18-^5, he married Elizabeth B. Coddington of New Brunswick, N. J., daugh- 
ter of David and Deborah (Van Derveer) Coddington. They have had seven children, 
four of whom are living : John C, Dr. Cornelius W., Maria and Anna M ; the others 
died in infancy. Pastor De Baun holds high rank among the working clergy, and was 
president of the General Synod of the Reformed church in 1880. He was also invited 
to deliver the address at the installation of Professor Lansing to the chair of languages 
at the New Brunswick Theological Seminary, and he is in frequent service of this pub- 
lic character in addition to his contributions to the press. He was also elected president 
of Hope College, but felt that duty required him to remain in his present field. Pastor 
De Baun is an instructive preacher, preferring usefulness to display, his object being 
simply to convey Scripture truth. He adheres to the standards of the church, notwith- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 45 

standing the tendency of the age to human inventions. Before coming to his present 
field he made a foreign tour to reCruit health, and visited some of the most interesting 
scenes connected with that Reformation whose doctrines he has so faithfully maintained. 
Since his removal to Fonda his son (Cornelius) has graduated at the Albany Medical 
College and established himself in practice in the same village with encouraging success, 
and thus father and son are laboring, each in a philanthropic profession. 

De Baun, Cornelius W., M. D., Mohawk, son of Rev. John A. De Baun, was born ia 
Niskayuna, June 21, 1865. He attended Union College two years and then studied 
medicine with Dr. F. G. Buckbee of Fonda, and also with Dr lA. Vander Veer of Al- 
bany, and graduated from the Albany Medical College in 1887. He began practice in 
Fultonville the same year, but later on moved to Fonda, where he has since been en- 
gaged in his profession with marked success. On May 4, 1887, he married Miss Laura 
0. Mill.<:, daughter of George E. Mills, and they have one child, John A., jr. Dr. De 
Baun is secretary of the County Medical Society, also a member of the Ancient Order 
of United Workmen and of the order of Red Men and was one of the founders of the 
Fonda Literary Society which has done so much toward the culture of local talent. 

De Wandelaer, James G., Palatine, was born in Mohawk, November 11, 1836. His 
father was Gansevoort De Wandelaer, and his grandfather, John, was a native of Al- 
bany. The latter, during the early part of his life, was an assistant in the law office of 
Judge Van Vechten of Albany, and was under Gov. George Clinton in the year 1786 
paymaster of the militia. Some time after the revolution he moved to Palatine and 
purchased the farm of 600 acres, known as the Schenck farm, where he lived until his 
death. He also owned a grist, saw and fulling mill. His wife was a daughter of CoL 
Peter Ganesvoort, and they had six sons and two daughters. Ganesvoort De Wande- 
laer was born in Palatme in 1797, reared on a farm and married Delia, daughter of 
Adam Getman of Ephratah. The two oldest children died in infancy, but one daugh- 
ter and two sons survived. He fell heir to his father's property, which he afterwards 
sold and bought the farm now owned by Jacob Nellis. At one time he owned the farm 
on which the Fonda court-house now stands, and also the farm now occupied by Will- 
iam Campbell. In 184.5 he bought the farm now occupied by James G., where he died. 
When a young man he studied medicine and also was clerk in the store of his uncle, 
Conrad Ganesvoort, who kept the first store in Fort Plain. He died in 1867 and his 
wife in 1876. James G. De Wandelaer was reared on the farm where he now resides. 
In 1885 he married Anna, daughter of George Lawyer of Schoharie. He is a farmer, 
owning 288 acres of land, with good buildings, and has the largest dairy in Palatine. 
In politics he is a Republican. His brother, John A., enlisted in the Union army in 
1862, and served under General Banks in Louisiana, where he was in four engagements ; 
also under General Sheridan, m Virginia, he participated in five engagements end was 
wounded in the shoulder in the battle of Winchester. He died April 9, 1891, at Ad- 
amstown, Md., and his remains were interred in Washington. 

Dockstader, Albert V., Palatine, was born in Mohawk. October 3, 1839. He is a 
son of Jacob J., who was a son of John, and the latter the son of Jacob, whose father 
was Marcus Dockstader, of German descent, who lived and died in Mohawk. John 



46 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Dockstader and his father, Jacob, were born in Mohawk and were farmers. John 
married Phoebe Diilenback and raised three sons and five daughters. Both parents 
died in Mohawk. Jacob J. Dockstader was born in the same town in 1809, and was a 
farmer. He married Eliza, daugliter of Albert Veeder, who, with his father was taken 
prisoner by Sir John Johnson, but afterwards released. Jacob J. had three sons and 
one daughter by his first wife. His second wife was Cornelia Williams who is now liv- 
ing and is the mother of his second daughter. He died in 1885. Albert Doxtstader 
was educated in the public schools and at Clinton Liberal Institute, and married Gertrude, 
daughter of Conrad P. and Gertrude Snell of Palatine, They have two children, Arthur 
J. and Earl W. At the age of twenty-six Mr. Dockstader went from Mohawk to the 
town of Florida and bought a farm which he now owns. He resided thereuntil 1888, 
when he came to Palatine and bought the farm he now occupies. He was justice of the 
peace in Florida and has been highway commissioner. His wife is a member of the 
Reformed church. It may be added that Conrad P. Snell, whose daughter became 
Albert V. Dockstader's wife, was member of assembly in 1851. 

Diefendorf, Warner W., Palatine, was born December 2, 1831, in Oneida county, but 
removed with his parents when a year old to Montgomery county. His father was 
Warner ; his grandfather John ; and his great-grandfather John J. John Diefendorf 
married Maria Failing, and had twelve children, among them Rev. B. I. Diefendorf and 
also Dr. Abraham Diefendorf, the well-known physician He held many minor offices, 
and was a deacon in the Reformed church, but afterwards became a Methodist. He 
died in 1860 and his wife some years previously. Warner Diefendorf was born at Frey's 
Bush in 1796. He received a good education and married Christiana Wohlgemuth, a 
native of Frey's Bush, and a daughter of William Wohlgemuth, who was born in Pala- 
tine, and after the revolutionary war married Maria Countriman. Warner Diefendorf 
had twelve children, ten of whom readied maturity. He was a member of the M. E. 
Church, and assisted in building the church at Salt Springville. He and his wife both 
died in 1877, having lived together over sixty years. Warner W. was raised on a farm 
and educated in the public schools and also at Cherry Valley Seminary. In 1860 he 
married Margaret A., daughter of James W. and Mary (Coppernoll) Hopkins of Minden. 
They have two children : Miles H., a produce dealer of Canajoharie; and Lillian E. In 
1871 Mr. Diefendorf went to Fort Plain and had a grist-mill for three years, but the 
next eight years he sold produce and also pumps. He afterwards bought the "Archi- 
bald Fox farm " in Palatine, where he now resides. He is a member of the Royal 
Templars of Temperance at Fort Plain, and of the M . E. Church at the same place, 
which he helped to build. He is also trustee of the old Palatine church, the oldest in 
Montgomery county. 

Dievendorf, Jacob, Root, was born November 16, 1836, at Currytown. and is the son 
of William B. and Elizabeth (Dievendorf) Dievendorf. The grandfather, Jacob, was a 
son of Jacob Dievendorf, who came from Switzerland with his father, Henry, about the 
1730, and soon after settled at Currytown. He was one of the earliest pioneers in Root. 
He had three sons: Jacob, Frederick and Henry. Frederick was killed by a falling 
tree, and Jacob and Henry were both the grandfathers of the subject of this sketch. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 47 

Jacob, the parental grandfather, was born at Currytown September 23, 1709. He was 
a boy about twelve years old when taken prisioner by the tories and Indians, and in 
one of the battles was felled by an Indian, scalped, and left for dead. The day after 
the battle he was found and cared for by his friends. He was an extensive land owner 
and farmer. By his wife, Margaret Bellinger, he had two sons and three daughters. 
He died at Currytown October 8, 1854, and his wife about 1842. The father of Jacob 
(William B. Dievendorf the only surviving son) was born August 30, 1805, at Currytown. 
He was an extensive farmer and was one of the first dairymen of his town. He was a 
Democrat, and served as supervisor. He died March 11, 1SS2. His nine children were 
as follows : Jacob, Henry A., Charles, Catherine. Charlotte, Fannie M., Lydia and 
Elizabeth. Margaret died aged twenty. The wife of William B. was born November 
24, 1811, and was a daughter of Henry D. and Margaret (Lyker) Dievendorf. Her 
father served in the assembly of the state and was county judge. She was one of nine 
children: Jacob H., Henry L., Cornelius, John F., Catharine, Elizabeth, Hannah, 
Margaret and Fannie. Jacob Dievendorf was reared on a farm and received a common 
school education, supplemented by an academic course. He married January 5, 1865, 
Lydia, daughter of James and Elizabeth (Mount) Shelp. They have had five children: 
Elizabeth A., Luella, David K., William J. and Sarah M. Mr. Dievendorf is an exten- 
sive farmer and dairyman, owning the old homestead of 220 acres besides two other 
farms of 200 and 190 acres respectively. He furnished a substitute for the war ; has 
served as supervisor for three terms ana is a Democrat. He and his wife are members 
of the Reformed church. He is also interested in the bank at Fonda and the cheese 
factory of his town. 

Dievendorf, Henry A., Root, was born April 9, 1838, and is the son of William B. 
and Elizabeth Dievendorf. He was reared on a farm and received a common school 
education, supplemented by a course at the high school in Canajoharie. In 18G8 he be- 
gan for himself, and in 1877 bought 304 acres of land one mile south of Sprakers, and 
in 1891 200 acres in Sprakers. He is a director in the National Spraker Bank at Can- 
ajoharie and a manufacturer of cheese. In politics he is a Democrat. He married 
December 25, 1874, Tenetta, daughter of Elias and' Lucretia (Wessels) Lasher, natives 
of Root. Mr. Lasher reared three sons and six daughters. He died September 23, 1869, 
aged sixty-three. His wife survives him, aged severly-seven. Mr. and Mrs:. Dieven- 
dorf have five children : William B., Mary L., Edwin G., Catharine E. and Luetta. The 
family are members of the Reformed church. Mr. Dievendorf is greatly interested in 
educational methods. He is also a successful businessman and is interested in the bank 
and also in several cheese factories. 

Elwood Family. — The first settler of this family in the Mohawk valley was Peter 
Elwood. He was an Englishman, and settled in what is now the town of Minden. 
He married Margaret Nellis. and they had the following family : Henry, who died in 
Frankfort; David, died in Herkimer county; Peter; George, died in Montgomery 
county ; Nancy, married John Miller and died in Minden ; and Margaret, widow of 
Luke Lewis, lives in Chautauqua county. The original settler, Peter, died in Minden. 
Peter of the above family, was born in Minden in March, 1800, and married Mary 
Moyer. Their children were Nancy, who married Josiah Root and died in Minden ; 



48 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Reuben ; David, a resident of Fort Plain ; Margaret wife, of Lansing Fake, resides Id 
Troy; Mary, widow of Milton Failing, lives in Minden ; Peter, died in October, 1875. 
Reuben, of the above family, was born in Minden February 12, 1827. His father was 
a farmer, and his early life was spent in agricultural pursuits, his education being lim- 
ited to the district schools. Mr. Elwood carried on farming till 1871 when ue came to 
Fort Plain and was engaged in buying and selling country produce till 1882. He then 
went into the coal and fire insurance business, which he has since conducted. Politi- 
cally he is a Republican, and since the Clinton Liberal Institute was located at Fort 
Plain, he has been one of its trustees, and also for three years secretary and treasurer. 
He married Catharine, daughter of John Dillenbeck of Dauube, and they have two 
sons: Byron H., born in Minden, married Jessie Burhngame of Pownell, Vt. He is 
a widower and has one child, named Florence. Ellsworth E., born in Minden June 4, 
1861, married Emma, daughter of E. W. Wood. They have one child, Edwin R. 

Edwards, Charles Clement, Minden, was born in Ephratah, November 3, 1850, and 
is the fourth son in a family of eight children of James and Catherine (Nellts) Edwards. 
His father became a resident of Palatine in the spring of 1853, and he attended the 
local schools and the Fort Plain Seminary. In the fall of 1865 he became a clerk in 
the dry goods store of C. Y. Edwards, where he remained two years and he then at- 
tended the Johnstown public .schools for one year, and later on accompanied his father 
who removed to Jonesville, Saratoga county, and he was engaged one year in farming. 
Returning to Fort Plain our subject was for two years clerk for C. Y. Edwards, and 
after that was clerk for E. W. Edwards at Johnstown. In the spring of 1875, in 
company with his brother, J. K. Edwards, he purchased the hat, cap and men's fur- 
nishing stock of A. G Mabee, and two years later Mr. Edwards obtained his brother's 
interest in the business, which he has since carried on. A Republican in politics, he 
has never held public office. He married Blanche, daughter of Emmet Raymond of 
Saratoo^a county. They have two children : Blanche Raymond and Elizabeth Anna. 

Elithorp, Elias J., Palatine Bridge, was born in Saratoga county in 1831. His father 
was Isaac and his grandfather Azariah Elithorp. The latter came from Connecticut at 
an early day and settled in Edinburgh, Saratoga couuty, and married Effie Younglove, 
who bore him five sons and five daughters. Isaac was born in Saratoga county, May 
6, 1796, and married Effie Russell, by whom he had seven sons and one daughter. He 
was a member of Fish House Lodge F. & A. M., and was also a Royal Arch Mason. 
He died in Saratoga county, where he had always lived, in 1856 and his wife in 1880. 
Elias J. Elithorp married Mary, a daughter of Arie and Margaret (Neahr) Van Wie. 
They have had two children : Etta, who died at one year of age ; and Oscar, a graduate 
of Albany Medical College, who died in 1882 aged twenty-six. When a young man 
Elias J. came to Montgomery county and settled at Palatine Bridge, where he has 
since resided. He has been a contractor and builder for thirty years, and was super- 
visor two years and commissioner of highways three years, at present being justice of 
the peace. He is a member of Hamilton Lodge No. 79, F. & A. M., Hiram Union 
Chapter No. 53, and Utica Commandery No. 3. He is a member of Royal and Select 
Master Lodge of Albany, and has taken his 22d degree in Masonry. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 4& 

Eldredge, Henry Moyer, Minden, was born in Leesville, Schoharie county, March 
27. 1851, and is the seventh of a family of nine children of Clinton and Catherine 
(Moyer) Eldredge. His father was a farmer, and his education was limited to the 
common schools. He tanght school for four years and in 1876 commenced to read law 
in the ofBce of Coons & Winnie of Sharon S()rings. He was admitted to the bar in 
1879 and in March of the following year opened an office in Fort Plain, where he still 
continues to practice. A Democrat in politics, he has held the office of justice of the 
peace in Schoharie and Montgomery counties, and was from 1883 to 1889 clerk of the 
board of supervisors. He married Ida C, daughter of Aaron Dunckel, of Minden. 

Edwards, James Keller, Minden, was born in Eohratah, and is the third son of a 
family of eight children born to James and Catharine E. (Nellis) Edwards. His grand- 
father, John Edwards, was a member of Congress in 1838. Our subject attended the 
local schools also the Fort Plain Seminary. He engaged in mercantile business at the 
age of eighteen years and was for one year clerk for Fanley & Griffiths, tiardware 
dealers. In 1866 he went to Johnstown and became interested in the manufacture of 
gloves and mittens, and also carried on farming. He married in 1809 Kittie R., daugh- 
ter of Joshua Vedder of Nelliston. He returned to Fort Plain in 1871, and was resident 
buyer for a New York produce house with whom he was engaged two years. In the 
fall of 1873 he bought a slock of hats and caps formerly owned by A. G. Mabee, which 
business he carried on till 1876. In the latter year he engaged in the manufacture of 
furniture, doing a wholesale and retail trade, which he has since continued. In 
politics he is a Republican and in 1878 he was elected county treasurer, which office 
he filled till 188.5. He is a prominent Mason and he was a trustee of the lodge for 
many years; also a trustee of the Red Men Lodge and of the Reformed church. He 
is also president of the Fort Plain Furniture Company and a director of the Fort Plain 
National Bank. He has one daughter, viz. : May Gertrude. 

Edwards, J. S. Glen, of Glen, one of the four children of John V. S. Edwards and 
Mary (Hosford) Edwards of Glen, was born January 16, 1847, the others being Edward, 
Geddes H., and Mary (Mrs. George Abel). John Edwards, grandfather, was born in 
Root, his wife, Ann Van Schayck, was born on Staten Island. William Edwards, the 
great-grandfather, came from Wales and in early life settled m Root. Mary M. (Hos- 
ford) Edwards, the mother of J. S. Glen, was a daughter of Joseph and Maria (Glen) 
Hosford, her father being John S. Glen of Schenectady, and his father was Abraham 
Glen, whose brother Jacob was the original patantee in Delancy patent of 10,000 acres 
in the towns of Glen and Root. His daughter Deborah was the grandmother of Maria 
( Glen ) Hosford. The father of Abraham and Jacob was John Alexander Glen. His 
father, Alexander Lmdsey Glen, came from Scotland and was one of the original set- 
tlers of Schenectady. J. S. Glen Edwards was married February 28, 1872, to Mary 
Van Deveer, one of two children of William and Elizabeth ( Putman ) Van Duveer of 
Glen, the other being John Van Deveer. Her grandfather was John Van Deveer and 
his father was Tunis Van Deveer, who was a native of Monmouth county. N. J. He 
held a commission in the revolutionary army. They have two children, Florence M. 
and Deborah Glen Edwards. It is from one of this family (Jacob S. Glen ) that the 
town of Glen takes its name. 



50 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

England, Morgan, Palatine, was bom in Palatine December 28, 1848. On the pa- 
ternal side he traces his ancestors through Benjamin N. England, his father; Nicholas 
England, grandfather, to Benjamin England, great-grandlathcr, a Lutheran minister, 
who came from Germany. On the maternal side, his mother was Amelia Cook, his 
grandmother was Catherine Shultz, and his great-grandmother was Catherine Loucks, 
Benjamin N. England and wife, parents of ilorgan, had three sons and two daughters, 
of whom-Morgan and Menzo alone survive. Benjamin N. was a farmer and dealer in 
produce. He voted for Lincoln, though a Democrat. He was a justice of the peace, 
and a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, as was his wife. He died Novem- 
ber 7, 1883. His father survives and lives in Palatine. Morgan England was educated 
in the common schools and Fairfield Seminary. April 23, 18&0, he married Maggie, 
daughter of D. S. and Margaret (England) Potter. In addition to farming, Morgan 
taught school fourteen years. He was also partner with J. J. Potter in the hay and 
coal trade; in 1890 the partnership was dissolved, and lie has since continued the busi- 
ness alone in connection with farming 120 acres. He is a member of the Red Men 
and also of the Grange. He and his wife are members of St. Mark's Lutheran church 
at Canajoharie. 

Fagan, William T., Amsterdam, was born near Harrisburg, Pa., in 1833, and moved 
with his parents when a child to Tribes Hill. He was educated in the public schools 
and academy and is a graduate of the Rochester University and Theological Seminary. 
He was pastor of the Baptist churches at Rome, Amsterdam, Booneville and Norwalk, 
Conn. About twelve years ago he retired from the ministry and has since resided in 
Amsterdam, engaging mainly in real estate and newspaper work. He nevpr married. 

Fowler, Mr.s. Sarah A., Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born May 2, 1828, at Conner's 
Mills, and is a daughter of Gilbert Conner and sister of James Conner. Gilbert Con- 
ner's father, Garrett O'Conner, was born in Ireland July 25, 1766, and came to this 
country previous to the revolution. Sarah J. was educated in the school of her district. 
One of her earliest recollections is the building of the Reformed church at Hagaman's 
Mills. She was married October 4, 1853, to Alonzo Fowler of Saratoga county, a year 
after her father's death. Mr. Fowler has been a very successful farmer, considering 
the many reverses he had when first securing the Conner farm, owning now one of the 
finest as well as one of the largest farms in this section of the county. 

Frazer, Dr. Leonard A., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Bethlehem, Albany 
county, on the 17th of May, 1846, and was educated in the public schools and in the 
Cass High School and graduated from the Albany Medical College in the year 1871. 
He began to practice at Slingerlands, Albany county, and in the year 1881 he came to 
Amsterdam. On the 19th of October, 1870, he married Catherine A., second daughter 
of Albert I., and Catherine Slingerland of Albany county. They had five children. 
Theresa died at the age of sixteen years, Robert, Albert S., Catharine M. and Leonard 
H. The doctor's father (Robert) was born in the same county on the 10th of June, 
1804 and married Mrs. Sarah A. Arkles of the same town. All their children died in 
infancy except Leonard A. His grandfather came with his parents from Scotland 
when an infant. General Frazer was of this family and was killed at the battle of Sar- 



FAMILY SKETCHES 51 

atoga in the Revolutionary war. These Erasers were descended from tlje same clan 
with Lord Lovatt and hved at Inverness. Scotland. 

Fitzgerald, Timothy, Amsterdam, was born on the 11th of October, 185.5, in the 
town of Florence, Oneida county, and was educated in the public schools. In early life 
he was a farmer and afterwards learned the carpenter's trade and worked at the busi- 
ness in the far west. He was in Utah territory two years but returned to this state 
and located at Amsterdam in 1881. On the 19th of April, 1881, he married Mary 
Griffin of the town of Lewis, Lewis county, by whom he had two sons and one daugh- 
ter: William, Mary E., and Edward F. Mr. Fitzgerald is doing a prosperous business 
in the manufacture and bottling of carbonated drinks, corner of Church and Reid 
streets, Amsterdam. 

Folmsbee, Peter, Amsterdam, was born in Root, January 9, 1828 ; he was educated 
in the common schools of those times and until he was twenty-two was a farmer; he 
then learned the carpenter and joiner's trade, which he followed in that town twenty- 
two years. In 18G5 he married Malvina Wessell, of his native place, by whom lie had 
one son, Liiman, who afterwards married Lottie Jones of Amsterdam. Mrs. Folmsbee 
died in August, 1870 ; he then came to Amsterdam in 1871 to work at his trade, and 
February 6, 1872, he married Mrs. Sarah A. Mills (born Brown) of Washington county ; 
she had four children by her first husband, Taylor L. Mills, namely : Lewis T., who 
married Alice Sinclair (an English lady) ; Emma, who married Moses N. Newell, for- 
merly of Troy ; Minnie, married Earl Vought of this city ; and Frederick H., who mar- 
ried Margaret Lyons of Cambridge, Mass. Mr. Folmsbee has worked at his trade in 
this city twenty-one years; his father, James, was in the war of 1812 at .Sackett's 
Harbor. 

Flansburg, Albertus B., Amsterdam, was born on the 1st of August, 185G, in the 
town of Wright, Schoharie county, and was educated in the public schools and gradu- 
ated from Fort Edward Collegiate Institute in 1877. He taught school for five years 
and read law with Walter L. Van Denberg, aud was admitted to the bar in 1883. He 
has since practiced law m this city and at the time of writing (1892) is a justice of the 
city court. His father, Henry, was born in the town of Berne, twelve miles south of 
Albany, on the 26th of August, 1814. He married Janette Rosekrans of his native 
place. They had seven children, three sons and four daughters : Louise E., Henry R. 
Catherine E., Sarah J., Loretta S., Garrett E. and Albertus B. He is of Dutch stock, 
his forefathers having come from Holland. 

Fo.x, Ira, Amsterdam, was born April 2, 18G2, in the town of Mokawk, and is the 
son of Lyman and Harriet J. (Snell) Fox. His father (Lyman) was born in the same 
town April 25, 1836, and was the father of six living children. Frank, the second son 
is still living on the old homestead and the other four reside in Johnstown. Ira, the 
subject of our sketch, attended the school in West Amsterdam until he was sixteen 
when he entered the Johnstown Academy, where he spent two years securing a good 
business education. In 1880 his mother died. He left home at once and began work 
at carpentering in Amsterdam where he remained two years. November 8, 1882, he 
married Martha A. Boyd of Amsterdam. After his marriage he worked one of his 



52 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

father's farms in the town of Johnstown for one year, then engaged with Mr. Sanford 
as a carpenter He had been here but a short time when, the foreman leaving, Mr. 
Fox succeeded to the position which he has since retained, and Mr. Sanford owes much 
of the beauty and good appearance of eveiylhing to the watchful eye of his superin- 
tendent. Mr. Fox is the father of two children : Martha L., born September 1, 1883 ; 
Walter I., born January 17, 1886. Mr. Fox now owns and conducts a dairy farm of 
160 acres near Fort Johnson. 

Fraser, John T., Florida, was born in Albany, February 24, 1S27. Hi.s father (Hugh) 
was born in that city, in the year 1793, but his mother (Julia Ann M'Eiitee) w«s a 
native of Philadelphia. His grandtather, John Fraser, was born in Scotland. He has 
one sister living, Mrs. Southwick of Albany. John T. married, July 1, 1852, Eleanor 
Kelley, daughter of Peter and Anna M. (Dougall) Kelley of Scotch Bush, and they 
have an adopted daughter, Eleanor Fraser. Mr. Fraser is a business man in Albany, 
spending his summers upon his farm in the town of Florida. 

Failing Family, The — This family is of German descent, and the pioneer was one of 
the fifty families sent to this country by Queen Anne. He settled at Livingston Manor 
on the Hudson, and removed to Schoharie county. Some time previous to the revolu- 
tionary war he came to Canajoharie. He had a family of six sons, of whom the young- 
est was Henry. The latter had a large family of children, viz.: Jacob H., Richard, 
Henry, John, Philip, Elizabeth, who married Jacob Wahath; Nancy, who married 
Henry Zimmerman ; Catharine who married another Zimmerman ; and Alice, who 
married a man by the name of Wormwood. Richard, of the above family, had a son, 
John R., who married Elizabeth Loveless, and had eleven children, viz.: Louisa, widow 
of David Ehle, resides in Minden ; Rufus ; Mary, widow of Albert Barnes, lives in 
Pennsylvania; Alonzo, died in Canajoharie; Luthera, wife of William Skillan of Tine- 
land, N. J.; Schuler, lives in Fort Plain ; Eleanor, wife of Peter Kisnerof Amsterdam; 
Emma, widow of William H. Harper, resides in Penns-ylvania; Elizabeth, died young ; 
Henrietta, wife of William Dingman, resides in Yirginia ; and Jane, widow of J. Q. A. 
South, resides in Fultonville. John R. was a blacksmith by trade, and became a resi- 
dent of Fort Plain in 1834, where he died in 1875. Rufus, the oldest son of the above 
family, was born in Canajoharie, Januaiy 21, 1824, and married first, Jane Blessing, by 
whom he had three children : Celia Elizabeth, wife of Henry Husen of Starkville ; Ida 
A., wife of W. R. Wahath of Fort Plain; and Josephine who died young. He mar- 
ried second, Augusta Ellsworth, by whom he had two children : Maria S., wife of Lewie 
Shinnehan of Franklin, and one son named Rufus W. He was interested with his 
father in the foundry which he now runs in Fort Plain. He is a Republican in politics, 
and has been president and trustee of the village, also excise commissioner. Henry, 
son of Henry ( the later being son of the original ancestor), married Mary Chapman 
and had eight children : Simeon, who died in Minden ; Josiah, who died in Portland, 
Oregon; Jeremiah; William, who died in Seneca Falls; James, resides in Bingham- 
ton ; Catharine, died in Minden ; Eliza, died in New York ; and Sarah Jane, who mar- 
ried Daniel Rapp and died in New York. Henry died July 16, 1826, aged 
about fifty-six years. Jeremiah, of the above family, was born in Minden 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 53 

November 19, 1810, and married April 28, 1846, Eliza Ann Lightall, wlio was 
born in Ephratah April 17, 1822. They had four children: Sarah Jane, who died aged 
tvfenty-four ; Mary Lucy, who died aged eighteen years ; Elizabeth, died aged two 
years ; and Josiah, who was born in Fort Plain July 12, 1859, married Carrie Hodges and 
is a merchant at Hartford, Wis. Jeremiah worked on a farm until the death of his 
father, when became to Fort Plain and learned the blacksmith's trade, and has since re- 
sided there. He is a Republican. 

Fish, Leonard Frothingham, Fultonville, was born in Fultonville March 25, 18C7. 
After completing his studies at the Fultonville Union school he took a four years' liter- 
ary course at Clinton Liberal Institute at Fort Plain. He read law for three years with 
R. B. Fish and was admitted as an attorney and counsellor on the 2d of December, 
1890, and is now in active practice at Fultonville. He is the youngest son of Judge 
Frothingham Fish of the Supreme Court, who by many years' service became distin- 
guished as an able jurist throughout the State. He is a grandson of Counsellor How- 
land Fish ( a graduate of Yale college, and who for a term of years was district attor- 
ney of Montgomery county ) and Eliza Frothingham. Howland Fish was a son of 
Peter Fish ( who was of Holland descent and who served in the revolutionary army 
and fought for the country at Bunker Hill) and Alice Howland who was of English 
descent. Eliza Frothingham was a daughter of Thomas Frothingham ( who was of 
Scotch descent and who fought for the country at Bunker Hill) and Elizabeth i'rost, 
who was of English stock. Mr. Fish's mother's name was Susan Bronk, and she is a 
daughter of the Rev. Robert Bronk and Catherine Van Denbergh. Catherine Van Den- 
bergh was a daughter of John Van Denbergh and Agnes Storm. Robert Bronk was a son 
of Judge Leonard Bronk ( a gentleman of immense wealth, who was an ofhcer in the 
American army in the revolution, and served eleven years in the assembly, four years in 
the senate, and ten years upon the bench in the State of New York ) and Catherine Van 
Denbergh, all of whom being of straight Holland descent. Judge Leonard Bronk was a 
son of John Bronk. and a grandson of Robert Bronk, who was granted a patent of an im- 
mense tract of land in the State of New York. On November 8, 1892, our subject was 
elected district attorney of Montgomery county by a handsome majority. 

Foster, AlonzoB., M. D., C. M.. Mohawk, is the son of Daniel R. and Lydia A. (Becker) 
Foster, was born in Waterford, Ontario, Canada. He graduated from Trinity Medical 
College of Toronto in 1887, also College of Physicians and Surgeons of the same city, 
and the New York Honiwpathic Medical College and Hospital in 1888. The same year 
he settled at Fonda where he has since practiced with success. In 1887 he received the 
degree of fellow of Trinity College. 

Fox, Mathew, Mohawk, Fonda p. o., ( son of William ) was born at Fort Plain August 
29, 1797. His father, William, was born in the town of Palatine, and the father of 
William was one of the first settlers in the county and town, where he built the first grist- 
mill. William married Margaret Wormuth, a sister of Lieutenant Wormuth. He was 
a farmer and was one of the guard at Fort Plain. He had three sons and a daughter : 
Peter, Daniel, Matthew and Elizabeth. Matthew married Catharine Dockstader, daugh- 
ter of Nicholas Dockstader, and settled about two miles west of Fonda where he re- 



54 HISTORT OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

mained a few years, and then removed to the farm now owned by his son Julian, which 
he bought and cleared, residing thereon nearly forty years. He died June 1, 1866, hav- 
ing accumulated a large foi tune. His wife died in August, 1867. They had six sons and 
three daughters. Julian married Mary Dockstader, daughter of John J. Dockstader, 
and he has one child, Boyd D., who resides at home. Mr. Fox has held the office of as- 
sessor seven years. 

Fonda, Adam H., Mohawk, Fonda p. o., son of General Henry Fonda, was born 
November 7, 1799, in the village of Fonda. He married Catharine, daughter of Adam 
Dockstader, and settled on the farm now owned by J. J. Whitmore. They had two 
sons and four daughters: Henry A., now a resident of Milton, Pa. ; Adam D. (de- 
cea-ed); He.ster, wife of Abram I. Veeder; Sarah A., wife of John D. Benson, who 
resides at Randolph; Eleanor M. and Alida C, who reside in Fonda. Adam H. died 
October 2, 1852, and his wife February 23, 1870. Heniy is president of a bank at 
Milton, Pa. He married Carrie Brown, and has one son, Lawrence. 

Fox, Christopher C, Palatine, was born in Palatine, June 16, 1843. His father was 
Peter G., and his grandfather Christopher C. Fox, born in 1774 in Palatine, a farmer, 
who married Margaret Gramps (born in 1775), who bore him seven children. They 
both died in Palatine, he in 1852 and she in 1856. Peter G. Fox was a farmer, and 
married Maria, daughter of Casper J. Cook of Palatine, and they had three sons and four 
daughters. He died in Palatine January 26, 1879. Christopher C. Fox, the subject of 
this sketch, was educated in the public schools and at Fort Edward Seminary. He 
married May 27, 1868, Dorcas, daughter of Frederick and Lorane (Yost) Sammons of 
Montgomery county, one of a family of eight children. They have had the follow- 
ing children : Lorane S., Marcus (deceased), Clara N., Charles C. Mr. Fox has been 
highway commisioner six years. His wife is a member of the Reformed church at 
Fort Plain. 

Fox Richard, Palatine, was born in Palatine, June 5, 1822, and is a son of William 
W. whose father was William W. W., a native of Germany, who came to America 
previous to the revolution. William W. W., senior, was a man of more than ordinary 
education, and was an officer in the revolutionary army. He settled on a farm owned 
by Richard Fox and died there. The grandfather of Richard was born in Palatine, and 
married a Miss Recta. He was a justice of the peace for forty years. He and his wife 
were members of the Reformed church, and both died in Palatine. William W. Fox 
was born in Palatine, educated at the common school, and was the father of twelve 
children. He lived and died on the farm now occupied by Richard. Richard Fox 
married Mary Frailey of Palatine, by whom he has four children : William, Myron, 
Laney E. and Meletta. He is a farmer and has thoroughly improved his farm and 
built a fine residence. He is a Democrat, and he and his wife are members of the Re- 
formed church. 

Fuller, Augustus, Palatine Bridge, was born in the town of Palatine in 1846, and is 
a son of Alva and Elizabeth F. (Shill) Fuller. He was educated in the common school, 
after leaving which he assisted his father on the farm until the age of eighteen, when 
he entered the employ of the New York Central railroad company, first as brakeman. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 55 

and afterwards as conductor for the Wagner Palace Car Company, for about ten 3'ears. 
In 1885 lie went into the railway mail service, between New York and Syracuse, and 
was in the employ of the government four years. In 1891 he bought the large grocery 
store in Palatine Bridge of John P. Planck, which he has since successfully conducted, 
and he is now doing a large business. December 11, 1872, he married Helen, daughter 
of John G. Eaker of this town, and they have one child, Mary E. Mr. Fuller was 
elected in 1875 on the Democratic ticket to the office of collector. 

Floyd, Dwight E., Palatine, was born in Palatine, August 4, 1845. His father was 
John Floyd, and liis grandfather Thomas Floyd of England, who married Phoebe Allen, 
and raised nine children. They both died in England. John Floyd was horn in 
England, March 26, 1819, reared on a farm, and educated at the common schools. He 
married Elizabeth Kirton, and their only child was Dwight E. Mr. Floyd came to 
America in 1845, and worked on a farm for Daniel Smith of Palatine, for five years. 
He then bought the farm of sixty-four acres, where he has since lived. He has always 
been an apiarist. He and his family are Methodists, and he is liberal in the support of 
the church. He is a Democrat. Dwight E. Floyd was raised on a farm and educated 
at the common school and at Fort Edward Seminary. In 1878 he married Hattie, 
daughter of James and Theresa (Brockett) Dempster. (The grandfather of the latter 
is Rev. Joel Dempster.) They have two children : Bertha and John D. Mr. Floyd 
ha.s always been a farmer and apiarist, having about 400 colonies of bees. He is a 
Democrat, and is overseer of tlie poor. His wife is a member of the Fort Plain M. E. 
church. 

Fake, Abram, St. Johnsville, was born June 11, 1825, in the village of Minden, and 
is the son of John and Anna (Shoemaker) Fake. The grandfather, Nicholas, was an 
earlv pioneer in Minden, and had a family of eight children : George, Joseph, John, 
Peter, Isaac, Henry, Jacob and Hannah. He was a Whig and died in his eighty-fifth 
year. The father of Abram was born in 1797 in Rensselaer county and died in Minden 
in 1883, in his eighty-seventh year. He was a Whig and afterward a Republican. He 
married first Ann Shoemaker, by whom he had five children: Peter, Abram, Eliza, 
Mary, and one who died an infant. His second wife was Elizabeth Gibson, by whom 
be had one child, John M., who died when young. Abram Fake was born and reared 
on a farm and received an academic education. At the age of twenty-three he began 
farming, which he followed until the spring of 1874 when he moved to Nelliston. In 
1879 he moved to St. Johnsville. He married twice, first to Mary A., daughter of 
William and Polly (Timmerman) Davy, and they had one child, Amaziah W., who now 
lives on the old homestead. Mary A., his wife, died in June, 1853, and he married for 
his second wife Matilda J., daughter of James and Leah (Voorhees) Wiley, of Fulton 
county. They are members of the Lutheran church of Minden. They had one child, 
A. James, who was educated at Cazenovia Seminary, also Hamilton College, and the 
New York Law School. He is a resident member of the Oneida Historical Society of 
Utica, a counsellor of the American Institute of Civics of New York, Delta Kappa Ep- 
silon and Theta Nu Epsilon college fraternities, and a member of the Dutch Reformed 
church of St. Johnsville. He is now connected with John D. Beals in the law in New 
York. 



56 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Gardiner, James B., Amsterdam, was born on the 19th of December, 1852, in Am- 
sterdam, and was educated in tlie pubhc scliools and the Amsterdam Academy. After 
the completion of his education lie became a clerk in his father's hardware store. He 
afterwards was employed in the knitting mills of Phillips, Gardiner & Company, and 
is now in company with C. H. Warring under the firm of Gardiner & Warring of the 
West End knitting mills, manufacturing fine knit goods. Mr. Gardiner is an active 
member of the Board of Trade. On the 6th of October, 1B75, he married Carrie S., 
oldest daughter of H. S. Sacia of Amsterdam. They have one son, Harry S. 

Gardiner, B. Watson, Amsterdam, was born on the -ITth of June, 1864, in Amster- 
dam, and was educated in the public schools and the Amsterdam Academy. Soon 
after he obtained his majority he began business on his own account in furnishing knit 
goods manufacturers with supplies and trimmings. On the 11th of September, 1889, 
he married Effie, oldest daughter of James and Catherine Van Brocklin of this city. 
They have one son, Leonard Yeoraans. Mr. Gardiner's fatlier, Leonard Y., was born 
in Greene county in the year 1824 and came to Amsterdam when a young man. He 
married Josena Bronson, by whom he had seven children, two of whom died in infancy. 
Leonard died in California after he grew to maturity. Four survive, Emily, James B., 
Marcus and B. Watson. 

Gray, John J., Amsterdam, was born on the 2d of July, 1814, in Ephratah, and was 
educated in the public school and the Canajoharie Academy. He taught .school four 
winters and also one summer, and in 1863 went to Illinois, where he was a farmer and 
and contractor. He superintended the first work on the Chicago and Galena railway 
and also operated in land. After four years he returned east and located at Port Jack- 
son, now the Fifth Ward in Amsterdam. On the 12lh of January, 1842, he married 
Maria L., second daughter of Warren and Catherine (Pettingill) Curtiss. They had two 
children, a son and a daughter; the son Howard died in infancy, and Georgianna Gray 
survived. She married Charles A. Jewett on the 6th of September, 1876, and has one 
daughter, Florence G. Mr. Jewett's former home was Chaumont, Jefferson county. 
Mr. Gray served the public in the capacity of constable and deputy sheriff one year. 
He was a contractor for the enlargement of the Erie canal, six miles of it being his con- 
tract. His savings were invested in land, and it has increased in value to a very great 
e.xtent, especially that adjoining the city. Mr. Gray's wife died on the 10th of October, 
1890. His father (Jacob) was born in the town of Palatine and married Hannah Ever- 
son of the same town. They had one son, Jolin J. His grandfather was a major in 
the revolutionary war. 

Grierae, Henry G., Amsterdam, was born on the 24th of April, 1842, in Diephol.sby, 
Germany, and was educated in the public schools and bred a contractor and builder ; 
his father and grandfather and others of his family worked at it for generations in Ger- 
many. At the age of fourteen he entered a school of architecture, studying winters 
and working summers, until he reached the age of twenty-one. From this time for- 
ward in Germany and in this country he has prosecuted his favorite occupation. In 
the year 1868 he came to this country and located at Amsterdam, and has been a suc- 
oeessful architect and contractor, and very many beautiful buildings attest his skill. He 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 57 

is also the architect for the large buildings Stephen Sanford & Sons are continuously 
erectinc; and is contractor for the same. Mr. Grieme has also a large lumber yard in 
the Fifth Ward, and a very extensive brickyard with all the modern conveniences for 
operating the same. He also conducts the process of steam drying the bricks, which 
he considers a superior and quicker method. He has married twice, first on December 
22, 1868, to Louisa Kline, formerly of Germany, and the ceremony took place at Ho- 
boken. They had three cliildren, two daughters and one son: Amelia, niaiiied Will- 
iam La Bahu of this city; Henry W., and Dora L., who re^-ides at home with her 
parents. For his second wife he married on the 30th of May, 1877, .Mrs. Maria Schotte. 
They have one daughter, Lucy P. Mrs. Grieme had four children by her first husband, 
as follows: Martha A., Mary C, Cuno B., and Gussie P. 

Gregory, E. Sanford, Minden, was born in Cooperstown, October 15, 1834, and is 
the oldest son in a family of five children of Stephen and Phoebe (Fairchild) Gregory. 
After attending the public schools he went to Gilbertsville Academy, then under the 
principalship of Ivory Chamberlain. He graduated in 1850 and came to Fort Plain 
and was employed for seven years as a clerk in the drug store of John H. Babcock 
in 1857 he became a partner with Mr. Babcock, the firm continuing until 1864 as 
Babcock & Gregory. In the latter year W. H. H. Lintner became a partner, and an- 
other store was opened at Little Falls under the charge of Mr. Lintner, the firm being 
Gregory & Co. at Fort Plain, and Babcock, Lintner & Co. at Little Falls. These firms 
continued until 1871, when by mutual agreement Mr. Gregory took tlie Fort Plain store, 
which he has since continued to run, and the other partners the Little Falls store. Mr. 
Gregory is the inventor of the Gregory quick-drying yellow floor paint, and also man- 
ufactures the well-known horse cure, Sanford's Liquid Heave & Distemper Remedy. 
Politically he is a Republican. He married Achsah, daughter of Asa N. Draper of 
Waterloo, and they have four children : Walter, a resident of New York ; De Lancey, 
Lucia B., and Charles S. 

Grant, .John P., Minden, was born in Minden, December 1, 1835, and is the second 
son of a family of three children of .John P. and Elizabeth (Sponable) Grant. He was 
educated in the common school and the Fort Plain Seminary. Mr. Grant early became 
engaged in farming, which he followed till 18G2, when he connected him.self with the 
firm of R. Baniber & Co. of New York as a resident buyer for all kinds of country pro- 
duce. He was in the employ of this firm, and Bamber & Elwood till 1880, w^ien he 
became a wholesale and retail dealer in butter, cheese and produce in Fort Plain. In 1887 
he added an extensive grocery stock to his business, which he has since carried on. In 
politics a Republican, he has been town clerk of Minden for three years, and for two 
years trustee of the village of Fort Plain. He married Annetta. daughter of Benjamin 
S. Vrooman of the town of Mohawk, and they have had five children: Mary Elizabeth, 
Wells S., Webster, who died aged nine years; Russell S., and John P. 

Genter, James, Minden, was born in Springfield, Otsego county, December 13, 1804. 
He attended the local schools, also the Academy at Cazenovia. In 182G he came to 
Fort Plain and studied law with Henry Adams and was admitted to the bar. He at 
one time formed a partnership with Henry Cook, and the firm was Genter & Cook, but 



58 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. _ 

after the dissolution of this firm he praticed alone until within a year of his death, August 
3, 1889. Politically he was a Democrat. December 3, 1835, he married Catharine, 
daughter of Henry Grouse. She died February 3, 1882. Their children were : Mary 
Augusta, died aged twenty-three years : Catharine Elizabeth, married H. N. Lockwood 
of Auburn, and died in New York August 6, 1888 : and Helen Alice, wife of George 
B. Cook of Fort Plain. On the occasion of Mr. Genters death, a meeting of the legal 
fraternity was held, and resolutions of condolence and respect were passed. He was 
for over fifty years associated with the members of the bar of Montgomery county. 
He was uniformly courteous in all business and social relations, of a quiet and retiring 
disposition, and was regarded as an honest and careful lawyer. George Byron Cook, 
was born in Milton, Saratoga county, April 26, 1839, and is the only son in a family of 
two children of Chauncey H. and Jane Ann (Shearer) Cook. After receiving a com- 
mon school education, in 1857 he came to Fort Plain and was employed in the dry 
goods liouse of Shearer & Cronkhite, and February 13, 1863, became a member of the 
firm of R. H. Shearer & Company. The latter firm was dissolved March 1, 1873, and 
Mr. Cook opened a dry goods store, which he carried on till January 1, 1892. In poli- 
tics a Democrat, he has never held any public offices. He married September 1, 1870, 
Helen Alice, daughter of James Genter and they have two children, James Lockwood 
and George Crouse. 

Garlock, De Forest, Canajoharie, Buel p. o., w'as born in the town of Canajoharie, 
about one and a half miles north of Buel, November 12, 1860. He is the son of Peter 
S. and Margaret ^Vroman) Garlock. December 15, 1866, he married Ella M. Sammons. 
(See Sammons Biog.) 

Garlock, William, Canajoharie, MarshviUe p. o., was born on the farm of his present 
residence, January 24, 1827, and is the son of George A. and Margaret (Lambert) 
Garlock. The grandfather of our subject is the earliest ancestor we can trace. His 
name was Adam and with his brother George were the only ones of the family who 
remained in tliis country during the Revolution. Adam v\-as born in 1754 and was 
married to Hannah Grey, and they were the parents of seven children ; William, Adam, 
George A., Henry, Nancy, Katie, Betsey. Adam, the grandfather, was a soldier in the 
Revolution, and drew a pension until his death, which occurred in 1840. His son, 
George A., was born in 1790 and served in the war of 1812. He married Margaret, 
daughter of Peter and Anna (Lipe) Lambert of Frey's Bush, just before the war of 
1812. They were the parents of ten children and five are still living : Menzo of Ames, 
Catherine of Fort Plain, Susan, wife of Wa.shington Garlock of Utica, Elizabeth, wife 
of Dwight A. Tibbies of Fort Plain, and William our subject. With the exception of 
five years which he spent in California, he has always lived on this farm. He was 
educated in the common school and assisted his father on the farm until the death of 
the latter, which occurred July 26, 1847 ; then he worked it on shares for his mother 
until 1851. After his mining venture in California (which was successful) lie returned 
to the old home in 1855. In 1858 he bought out his brother's interest. June 17, 1857, 
he married Mercy Hamilton, daughter of Henry C. and Emeline (Shepherd) Hamilton 
of Charlestown, and they are the parents of eight children, seven are living: Frank H., 
Minnie B., Mabel V., John I., Nellie, George H., Harvey I., and Bayard T. Mabel, 



FAMILY SKETCFIES. 59 

wife of Seymour Cooke, died October 8, 1889. Mr?. Garlock, mother of our subject, 
died in 1876, eighty years of age. Mr. Garlock is not an active politician but is known 
the town over as an honest, upright citizen, and good neighbor. 

Garlock, Nathan, Canajoharie, Marshville p. o., was born on the fa''m of his present 
residence, September 9, 1852, and is the son of Peter and Laney (Loucks) Garlock. 
The great-grandfather of our subject, Adam Garlock, settled on the farm of Adam and 
Rueben Garlock, the first of the family in this town. He was the father of seven 
children, of whom George was one of the oldest. He married a Margaret Lambert and 
they were the parents of eight children, five are now living: William of Canajoharie; 
Menzo of Ames; Susan, wife of Washington Garlock of TJtica ; Elizabeth, widow of 
Dwight Tibbies of Fort Plain ; and Catherine Garlock who makes her home with Mrs. 
Tibbies. Peter Garlock, father of our subject, was born January 7, 1817, and always 
lived in this town. He was a farmer and married Laney Loucks of Manheim, July 5, 
1842. and they were the parents of four children: Anna, wife of Harvey Wagner; 
Libbie, wife of Albert Dunckle of Canajoharie ; Lida, wife of James Schuyler of Fonda ; 
and Nathan, our subject, whose whole life has been spent on the farm. He was edu- 
cated at Ames Academy and also at Little Falls Academy. He married Luella Winne, 
daughter of Christopher and Elizabeth (Wessels) Winne of Mapletown, October 10, 
1878, and their union has been blessed by three children : Gertrude E., born January 
17, 1881 ; Matie C, born September 30, 1884; Yoorhees, born August 15, 1891. Mrs. 
Garlock, mother of our subject, lives with her son and is in her seventy-second year. 
After his marriage Mr. Garlock conducted the farm on shares until his father's death, 
February 11, 1886. He is considered a very successful farmer. He owns two farms 
which together contain 212 acres, and cultivates mostly hay and grain, with the addi- 
tion of a dairy of twenty-six cows. He is called a good friend and neighbor. 

George, Augustus L., Mohawk, Fonda p. o., was born in Silesia, Germany, May 7, 
1827, and is the .son of Anthony and Barbara (Gumprich) George. He was educated 
at the public schools of his country, and learned the cabinetmaker's trade. In 1849 he 
came to America and locateil at Fonda, where he worked two years for Charles Tim- 
merman and then became a partner in the cabinet business. In 1853 he started in busi- 
ness alone, and has carried on cabinet making and undertaking for forty years. In 
1852 he married Catherine De Graff of Fonda, daughter of John, and has four sons: 
John, Joseph, Francis and Charles. The whole family joined the Reformed church. 
He is a member of Fultonville Lodge No. 531, F. and A. M. He has been deacon in 
the Reformed church ten years, and was elected elder in 1866; he has led the choir 
twenty-nine years. In 1884 he visited his native country, stopping at Hamburg, Co- 
penhagen, Berlin and Frankfort, and spending a considerable time with his two broth- 
ers and one sister in the village of Weschkau. Mr. George is a very active man, and 
conducts a Sabbath-school at Berryville, where he is deeply beloved. His industry in 
business has been rewarded by success, and he has taken his two sons (John and Jo- 
seph) in partnership. They are as a family noted for industry, temperance and all that 
improves society. 

Faulkner, Jay H., oldest son and one of three children of Benjamin ami Mary E. 
(Mabee) Faulknor of Glen, was born in tliat town February 8, 1849, the dtlicrs being 



60 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUXTY. 

Anna (dead) and Edwin Faulknor. who lives upon the farm adjoining. He was mar- 
ried. March 20, 1872, to Mary E. Hoff, one of four children of William N. and Amelia 
(Shelp) Hoff of (lien. They have two children: Abram M. and Glen H. Faulknor. 
He has been called to various oiBces of public trust; was commissioner of highways 
five years and of great service in building the Mill Point bridge in 1879; served two 
years as supervisor with credit to himself and public satisfaction. He and his family 
have lived on the farm where they now reside since 1871, on which farm several years 
ago was kept a store, with a dressmaking department in connection. The family have 
in their possession a piece of goods purchased there by their grandmother (now dead) 
when she was a young girl. A Fourth of July celebration was once held there with 
a great crowd. Some of the old fighting stories of that day are told over yet as they 
are handed down by memory. There was also a blacksmith shop located there. 

Faulknor, Benjamin A., Glen, was born in the town of Glen March 22, 1822. He 
was one of seven children of Daniel and Hannah (Van Patten) Faulknor of Glen, the 
others being as follows: Jane, wife of Asa P.Dodge; Harriet (deceased), wife of 
William Tan Buren ; Cenith, widow of G. P. Serviss; Benjamin A., Mary Ann, widow 
of Charles Fieldhamer; Ann, widow of Mayhew Bunn, and Adelia, who died in her 
youth. The latter two were half sisters of Benjamin A. Caleb Faulknor, grandfather 
of the latter, was born in Connecticut and settled in Palatine in early life. His father 
came to Glen when a young man, married and settled here. Benjamin A. Faulknor 
married, November 25, 1847, Mary Mabee of Glen. They have had three children: 
Jay H., Edwin and Anna (deceased.) Edwin resides with his parents. He married, 
October 20, 188G, Nelia Allen, a daughter of Harvey and Phebe (Almy) Allen of the 
town of Root. They have two children, Leslie and Anna E. 

Fairbanks, Dr. James R., Amsterdam, born in Pittsfield, Mass., on the 11th of Octo- 
ber, 1842, was educated at the Harvard Medical College and graduated from the Berk- 
shire Medical College in October, 1866. He was in the War of the Rebellion as hos- 
pital steward and acting assistant surgeon of the Thirty-fourth Massachusetts Volun- 
teers from August 15, 1862, until tlie close of the war, receiving an honorable discharge. 
In 186S he married Elizabeth M. Bishop of Truxton, by whom he had two daughters: 
Hattie B. and Eliza. The doctor's father (Jabez) was born in Hadley, Mass., in 1801 
and married Harriet Stocking of Westfield, Mass., by whom he had three sons: Jabez 
W., Edgar P. and James R., all of whom were in the war, and two daughters; Ach- 
sah and Hattie. Edgar P. Fairbanks died in the army. 

Getman, William F., son of Richard and Mary (Shults) Getraan, was born July 4, 
1849. He married, June 23, 1875, Viola Shults, and in 1876 he bought the farm of 
121 acres where he now resides. They have three children; Anson. Orvia, Bertha 
V. In 1879 he built the Getman cheese factory, which is located ou his farm, and has 
a capacity of 300 cows. Mr. Getman is a member of the Grange and also the Im- 
proved Order of Red Men. 

Groff, Hamilton, Palatine, was born in the town of St. Johnsville, Montgomery 
county. August 11, 1828. His father was Daniel Grofi", and his grandfather was an 
early settler of Oppenheim, where he passed his whole life. Daniel Grofi" was born in 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 61 

Oppenheira, and married Eve Failing, by whom lie had eleven children. He moved to 
Sharon and afterwards to Stone Arabia ; the last ten years of his life he lived retired 
at Fort Plain. He died in 1879, and his wife in 1888. Hamilton Groff was raised on 
a farm, and is a man of liberal education. His wife was Nancy Flanders of St. Johns- 
ville, by whom he had five children ; Charles H., John H., Alice, Arthur D. and 
Albert, who died in infancy. Mr. Groff owns 350 acres of land, including the farm on 
which he resides, which contains 125 acres and has good buildings. His house, built in 
1870, at a cost of $9,000. is one of the finest residences in the town. He has a large 
dairy, and is a director of the Spraker cheese factory, for which he was salesman four 
years. He and his family attend the Reformed Church at Stone Arabia. 

Gramps, Harvey, Palatine, was born in Palatine, September 20, 1853. His father 
was Reuben ; his grandfather was John H. ; and his great-grandfather, Henry Gramps, 
who was an early settler of Palatine, and who served in the revolution. John H. 
Gramps was born in Palatine March 5, 1796, and married Mary Snell, who bore him 
twelve children, nine of whom reached maturity. He served in the war of 1812, held 
several town offices, and died May 18, 18G0, his wife dying in 1854. Reuben Gramps 
was born in Palatine, June 4, 1825, was a farmer, and married Marie Markell (born 
January 20, 1831), who bore him the following children: Aurelia, Harvey, Alida and 
Elmer. He survives his wife, who died September 24, 1881. Harvey Gramps was 
educated at the common school, supplemented by several terms at an academy. He 
is a farmer, and a Republican. He married, January 2, 1878, Julia, daughter of 
Azariah and Kattie A. (Kilts) Saltsman. They are members of the Reformed church 
at Stone Arabia. 

Gove, George J., Root, son of Johnson and Sarah (Walker) Gove, was born in 
Watervliet, Albany county, December 4, 1834, but after his father's death his mother 
came to Root. He received his education at the common schools, and at the age of 
thirteen entered the store of Ira Hoag, and at fourteen came to where he now carries 
on business, and became clerk for John Bowdish. In 1870 he became a partner. In 
1884 the partnership was dissolved and he then took in his son as partner. He also 
carries on a farm of 140 acres. He is a Democrat in politics and has served as town 
clerk two terms; was supervisor in 1884-85; re-elected in 1889-90-91; in 1889 and 
1891 was chairman of the board. In the fall of 1891 was elected to the assembly from 
Montgomery county and served on internal affairs — taxation, retrenchment and canals. 
He married Louisa, daughter of John and Jane A. Bowdish of Rural Grove, who reared 
three daughters. Her father served many years in town offices, and was assemblyman 
one term. He was a member of the constitutional convention in 1846, and died in 1886 
at the age of seventy-eight. Mr. and Mrs. Gove have had six children : J. B.. Laura, 
who died in infancy ; Anna W., who died aged twenty years ; George J., who died aged 
eleven years; Myrta L., and Maggie M. Mr. and Mrs. Gove are members of the 
Christian church. The grandfather, Elijah, was born in New England, of English de- 
scent, and reared three sons and six daughters. He was an early pioneer of Charleston. 
Johnson Gove was born in the latter town in 1799. He followed boating at Troy and 
later on was deputy sheriff of West Troy. He married first Laura Sears, by whom he 



62 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

had one son and three daughters. His second wife was Sarah Walker, who bore him 
one child, who is the subject of this sketch. Johnson Gove died in 1835, and his wife 
in 1882. She was born in Charleston, a daughter of Jacob Walker, who was of Dutch 
descent. He moved to Jefferson county, where he finished his days. 

Gardenier, Lorenzo, Root, was born where he now resides February 11, 1837, a son 
of Abraham M. and Rhoda (Grantier) Gardenier. He received a district school educa- 
tion, and now owns the old homestead, comprising 171 acres. He has served as over- 
seer of the poor, and is a Democrat. He married, October 27, 1881, Jane, daughter of 
Charles and Mary (Lyker) Gordon. They have two children, Mary Libbie and Bertha. 
Martin, grandfather of Lorenzo, was a son of Capt. Jacob Gardenier, who was one of 
the earliest settlers of the town of Glen. He served as captain and received thirteen 
wounds in the battle of Oriskany. For his bravery he was presented with a sword 
having a solid silver handle. This was willed to the father of Lorenzo, and was lost. 
Martin Gardenier was born near Caughnawaga, February 26, 1756, and married Anna 
Huyck Decemcer 21, 1784. Their four sons were Abraham, Isaac, William and Jacob. 
In 1802 he settled in Root, now in Schoharie county, where he owned two hundred 
acres of land. The old house still stands. He died in 1812. The father of Lorenzo 
was born May 5, 1798, and died in Root, where he served as supervisor, and held other 
minor offices. He died in May, 1871. His wife was born in December, 1799, and died 
in August, 1866. Of their eight children, five are living: Ann M., William, Louisa, 
Lorenzo and Menzo. 

Herrick, Sarah A., Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in the house now 
her residence, October 22, 1840. She was a daughter of James Conner, whose parents 
were old settlers in the county. When locating here they built the saw and grist-mill 
still known as Conner's Mill. The old mill was built about 1800, and stood until 1863. 
It was a familiar landmark to the oldest inhabitant, and was immediately rebuilt by 
Mrs. Herriok's father (James Conner) after its destruction by fire. Mrs. Herrick was 
married September 14, 1865, to Marvin Herrick of Hagaman's Mills, who still conducts 
the farm and mills which fell to Mrs. Herrick upon the death of her father, which oc- 
curred in April, 1875, at his sixtieth birthday. The mother of Mrs. Herrick, Mrs. Con- 
ners, is still livmg, three score and ten years of age. 

Hagaman, J. Morgan, Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born October 8, 1824, 
and is a native of Hagaman's Mills, where his early life was spent. His education was 
acquired at the public school of the village and one year's attendance at the Amsterdam 
Academy. At the age of twenty-one he went to Long Island, taking with him machm- 
ery for the manufacture of carpets. While there he married Esther Allen of Saratoga 
county. Two children bless their union: Francis L., born November 22, 1846, and 
Aaron P., born August 26, 1848. In 1846 Mr. Hagaman returned to the village of Am- 
sterdam, where he was engaged by Mr. Saiiford for about five years, moving to Fort 
Plam to stay but two years, when he returned to Amsterdam and remained eight years. 
In 1861 he returned to his native village and resumed the management of his farm and 
in 1880 he established a general store, under the management of his son, Aaron P. 
Mr. Hagaman's ancestors were Hollanders, and were among the earliest settlers of this 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 63 

section of the country, coming here in 1787. Mrs. Hagaman still lives, beloved by her 
children and neighbors. 

Hubbs, Hirara, Amsterdam, was born in Florida, on the 24th of November, 1819. and 
was educated in the district schools and the Amsterdam Academy. He studied medi- 
cine with Dr. Jacob G. Snell of Port Jackson, now fifth ward of this city, and in 1845 
he graduated from the Albany Medical College. He divides his time in the practice of 
medicine and in farming. He has been married twice, first to Susanna Radley of his 
native town, but m the year 1846 she died. For his second wife he married Catharine, 
second daughter of Jeremiah Schuyler. They have three children, one son and two 
daughters ; Charles, who married Jessie E., daughter of Ex-Senator Adam W. Kline of 
this city, by whom he has one daughter named Katherine ; Eveline S., married John 
N. VanAntwerp of Fultonville ; Maude A. resides with her father. Charles Hubbs is now 
in Europe enjoying a pleasure trip with a party of friends. Mrs. Hubbs died in July, 
1866. Mr. Hubbs is president of the Farmers' Fire Insurance Company of Montgomery 
and Fulton counties, a director of the Farmers' National Bank of Amsterdam, and is 
now a retired farmer. 

Herrick, George, Amsterdam, was born in Florida, Montgomery county, on the 31st 
of May, 1812, was well educated and was a successful farmer until he retired in 1882. 
He was married twice, first on the 2.jth of June, 1835, to Sarah J. Stanton of his native 
place. She died on the 15th of January, 1882. He married on the 7th of November, 
1883, Marion M., third daughter of John and Jane Storrie of Amsterdam. Mr. Her- 
rick's father, Benjamin, was born near Albany. On the 1st of November, 1780, he 
married Sally Winegar. They had eight children : Delia, Marvin, Harvey, George, 
Elizabeth, Jacob, James H. and Harriet. Mr. Herrick's grandfather, Daniel, was a sol- 
dier in the Revolution. Mrs. Herrick's father, John Storris, was born in Glasgow, 
Scotland, and married Jane Miller of his native place. They have seven chddren. The 
ancestry of the family is Danish, German and Scotch. 

Hannon, George R., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Monticello, Sullivan county, 
on the 18th of December, 1852, and when he was two years old came to Elmira with 
his parents, where he was educated in the public schools. He was in the grocery busi- 
ness there for fifteen years, and was an alderman in the First ward of Elmira for two 
years at the same time Senator Hill was an alderman of that city. On the 25th of 
June, 1879, he married Aurelia E. Farrington of Elmira. They have five living chil- 
dren : Aurelia E., Alexander Cameron, May F., Irving S. and Roger R. In 1882 he 
came to Amsterdam as manager for Foster & Green, in the lumber business, for four 
years. About this time Mr. Foster died, he then entered into partnership with James 
W. Green, Mosher & Company, which continued three years, at the expiration of which 
a joint stock company was formed under the corporate name of the Mohawk Valley 
Lumber Company, with a $100,000 capital, of which Mr. Hannon is vice-president. 
This is a branch office of the main one at Fultonville. Mr. Hannon has been alderman 
in the Fifth ward for four years. 

Hagaman, Hannah, Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o,, was born one mile south of 
Hagaman's Mills, May 28, 1816, and is a daughter of Aaron and Sarah (Toll) Marcellus. 



6* mSfTORT OF yOSTGOMSRT COPSTT. 

Aanw, the father oC oor salijeci. vas a $os of Aj^asuer::^ yarc^Ias. vho came to diis 
eoantiT from HfjOand about 1747. He was ihe falser of six sods and two dai ^ht a s, 
of wtuefa Aaron (father of oor sabject) was ibe iHr\l Wbea be was twentj-STe reara 
of age bk biber gmye him a hDndred acres oo the ManDj's road where he Gved vnti 
ISeO. when he went to Stenben count}' where be £ed in 19S7. He was die talker 
of foor ehildreo: AhasoenEL, diaries, &tfaer. and Hannah (oor sa^ectX who 
was educated in the pab&e sdiools and Orid Seminaix. After l eaiii^ scfaool she 
kept boose for her &ther antil bn- marriagei, whidi was is 1S40. She was married t* 
Heorr H. Hagaman ot Hagaman's IGlla. and moved on to Mr. Hagaman's fum, wfaeie 
thej remained until ISIS when tbeT came to Hagaman's Mills, to the i^doKC he had 
built there and where he died in 1SS2 a^ed seTentr-one Teai& Thej were the parents 
ot but one child. John H., bom August -L ISoO. with whom lbs. Hagaman makes her 
home: and ^le is sxill stroo* and romparatiTtdr well, cooadering her age is serenqr-sa 
years. 

HanreT, ThomK; Amstndam, was bom on the 16th of June, 1S26, in West Chariton, 
Saratoga county, and came h«e with his par«its when he was nine Tears old. wha« 
he was educated in the common sdioots. He learned the trade of macteriBt with his 
fatho- with whom he became partner at the age <^ twentr-oae and continned ontii 
1S61. Tliar specialtT was manufacturing agricnltoial implements, drilk. plo^ihs, 
threshing machines, etc Ther sent the 6ist eigbt-hosse threshing machine to Califor- 
nia in 1S19. After ^solring in 1S61. he formed a copanneT^sJup with John MsDooald 
and Perry Cline for the manufocture of knit goods until they were bonied out in ISTS. 
About the year ISSl he sold lus interest in that OKiceni and is now in boiaoess with 
his son. Eimer F. Thomas Harrey was married January 24. 1S54. to Emihr F. Powell, 
third daughter of Charies F. and Sally M. Powi^ of Eingi^wra. They hare duee sons, 
Watsion Powell John Fr^er, and Braer F. Watson P. was bora on die 6th of Octo- 
ber, 1S5G, and was edocaied in Amsterdam Acadony. finishing his studies at Rzpley 
College, Termoot. He has been a manufacturer of knit goods, but is now identified 
with the dmttricmm Kmit CoMb iSrninr. a paper devoted to the knit goods interest, lo- 
cated at SIS Broadway, comer of Peari street, Xew York In Aprfl. 1S79. he married 
Carrie, s>Kond daughter of Prot Henry K. Salisbury oi this city. 

Hagiiinan. Franeas. AmstodauL was bom in the town of Amsterdam about ooe-ha^ 
mile from his presient letsSdenoe. Jnce 2S, 1SI9. and is a fon of Francis and Fanny 
( Cark ) Hagaman. Fiacc3> sen-.or was bora at Hi^aman's M:}ls F^jruary 12, I7SS^ 
and was a ioo of Josef^ ^wbo came from Holland :e 17S7. and was the first settler 
at Hagaiuan's Mills and ftnm whom the village deriveo hs cxme as he was the founder 
of the first saw and grist mill in the placeX and Betsey Ha^rasian. Francs, father of 
our subject, was in the military servicw in 1S06, and marrhed Fanny Ciaik February 1<X 
ISCS. They were the parents of nine childi^i, only four now living: Joseph B. of 
Illinois, Fannie J. Borbank of Califomia, Minor S. of Amsterdam, and Ftancis, our 
subject. Mr. Hagaman was educated in the pnbKc schools and made his home with 
his Mrents until he was twen-.y-four years ot age; when he married Mary (Vmner, 
dau^riiier of GP.bert and S^hr v HajTasias t Coooer. January 2ot. 1S43, after which they 
moved to West OhaHtoi- -t -^.^ y-.- - < « >-ked at Wacissnithjcc for three xeajs. when 



FAMILY SKKIXTHEJ- fo 

Sne. ^ IttsfcaJt here >cwit»rtiMeMdfle«—tlia»ne. Mid «bhA5»iih—d ■•jn w- 
■ajkaa^ dwfk. Bhue be k*s tatiau eJ ia tia^iaw^ sate ISMt. Tber vei« die panaMs 
•f tv» chMn* : S^afc Afices, bora Jaaearr :?& 1S47. aad Fassr ises. Vera Scynak- 
ker ^ ISiSL. IW iHier MMned, Scfttnber :^ liCT. Suew^ B. TnnwK ixnr iccad- 
ii^iBlVi^. Mis. HagMMB^kd Fekreanr ^. ISiSS. Her IibIt v«i« desreadutsaC 
Joecfh HagiBta's :e i c— i wife. 

Hii^ Jetai Bean-., AiKWrfan. vae bora ia Mwadea, Piassaa. Mar 1$. 1S33. He 
caaae to this tj — a nj ia 1^6 aad ntufcd ib SeheaMtadr aad ■aiiit i Mar^ariH Sboe~ 
■ill! of Aat fteee. He kad anea i tJ sx^aal a GctmaaT bst {ooad it iMber kard 
t* frsgrKS ac btsc ia As u — alij , Fbr aboiat senea Tears be -vas ea^iloTed bj Chris- 
•ifter Oudiy aad Us brgdMr Jaha ia tbe bnoai aaaataHare. a tbe .waiai.i acukag 
—I ia the g iiia i a g cawk aad ia wiater amHag b i w as . Ia 1863 be leated a fana ia 
TTjilajaaa abiibbi ■iwlinjiiiai jiai . afti i ■b'wliln i a ai li> liii i m iilaM MiiUiiiafbl 
a £ara «f 1-6 acres ai Maaaj^ Ob i acts , vbere be sdD resides. He bas ba3t a fiae 
ressdeaee and aev baneaadUs riaeebas dK ^feaiaaoe of beti^ ibebaaaeof apeee- 
pemasftaaacr. Acy wediepaivsts of tea eb3drea, sereaef wtaoiarefiTi^: Cfaris- 
toplMr J. HeM7, bora Deeeabero;. ISi^: WilfiaM £, bcra Xoreaber 1& 18G0; Cbr- 
rie M. Saett. boni Fehancr Sa, 198: Lo^aL. Kaadc, bora Maj IS. I9K: CSaries 
£.. bom Jcijr a& IS'l: Maggie S. bora Jsae 23. 1S73: and Don M_ beta Ocwber 
^. l?n\. Tbe Three cUUrea vbo £ed v-<s« librae CL bors IkMcaaber la. IfSS. «Bed 
Arc- .-. 1S5? : Faai L, bora Jsne 14. 1357. died At^ast 26. 1S91 : Fredenc^ J., bora 
ysT :ii. :5)££). dMd Deceaber 30. 1S!»1. 

Hove, Mrs. Jafia A^ FViiida, oan of Ae fire chdAea of Ge«*%e ana Sarab (Taader- 
Teer i Serris. was bota ia lb? : ■ t^ >:" Tn-rid*. vhae she has alvat-s Sred. oa tbe 12ii 
dar of Macth. ISSL Lev- ^iiaad. a soe cl Beebea aad FraEia i Sied > 

Howe, was bora ia FWids . 1%eT vese aajiied JaBcarr 2. lS39v aad 

Mr, Ho^i* dSed October Ji ;r7A 

Habiis. Joha. FVvida. wss ";•.-•— ':: '^ -cTaa S<T4««ilie? V". ".?:7. He was ogieof tbrre 
.o.'os oi CuuaeB a a aed Marr ;fe. Cortyr -. va$ bcni in iws 

u-vs ic lie ]rear 17SS. beer , - ^*!? ^ jr*- ->f -=, -trijo ■»Te bora - 

wi-j* hTS paresis ww« <xa i. . - tots at an 

ri.-> iaie. Ciarie: Hal*? ■ • - n ibe war 

_i>£_ii>e nfvoiiawm. rissKto ir.r —if : >^-^rr'-T; %' •:;- r - , ■" "■! ;d4is 

wa? TBitrtTed »£» Sasaa Frec<ii of Fjo-ii«. & inaTe of Ar:>:e- - -fi- 

--- --" .''>ia Fresjch. accooaaeat 33*2 ia hi? iij. Tbex l»Ti ^rius. 

; bocae: aad Fmiaa. aow Mis. Jata Serriss. iivi^ir a: A'asse^viMiL Fc»r lie 
-:T--Bteee j>caR, with the exceMMs of six. Mr. Hsbee has ETe>d niv>c lie ^m. 
wji.C'.ii s s^ciisn of as the be$« 100 acres ia Fkinda. 

Hernc£. Lewis H_ FWrida. oae of Csvr c^jdrea of Jaases aad Margaret J. ^erriee) 
HernK. was bora at MiaarBle, in the town of Fionda. ca tbe l^h dar of AfxriL l$i7. 
He married Afioe. daag h Kr of Kohert u»d Harriet (BroeirwaT) McMae^ae^ <«: tbe lowa 
of Flocida. aad iher haT« oae son. S. J. Heniek. 



66 HISTORY, OF MONTGOMERYI^COUNTT. 

Houck, Jacob, Florida, was born in the town of Florida on the 14th of August 1832. 
He was the son of Isaac Houck, born in Florida in 1802, and Catherine (Enders) 
Houck, born at Fort Hunter. He was married in 1855 to Adaline, daughter of Peter 
and Elizabeth Van Horn of Charleston. The grandfather, Jacob Houck, came to Flor- 
ida from Schoharie county in 1793 and located upon the extensive property which his 
grandson now occupies. The Houck family trace their ancestry in Holland to a remote 
period. 

Haig, Walter R., Minden, was born in Lisbon, St. Lawrence county, January 7, 1845, 
and is the second son in a family of seven children of John and Agnes (Aitchison) 
Haig. He received an academical course of study at the Potsdam Academy and the 
Canton University. He graduated from Middlebury College in 1872 and commenced 
teaching the public schools at Dixon, 111., where he remained one year, and the follow- 
ing year he had charge of the public schools al Norwood. He then accepted the posi- 
tion of professor of Latin and Greek at the Clinton Liberal Institute at Clinton, and on 
the removal of that institution to Fort Plain he became a resident of the village. He 
resigned his professorship in 1887, to become a partner in the Fort Plain Glove and 
Mitten Company, in which he is still interested, and in which employment is given to 
fifteen workers. Professor Haig is a Republican in politics. He married Mary L., 
daughter of Dr. John Parry of Buel. They have four children : Glen, Frank, Therese 
and Ethel. 

Hackney Family. — William Hackney came from England to Minden soon after the 
revolution. He married Elizabeth Zimmeiman, and ihey had the following family : 
Benjamin, who became a contractor and went west, purchasing the site of Aurora, 111., 
where he died ; Jeremiah, who engaged in the lumber business ar:d died in the same 
place ; Adam, died there also ; David ; John and Joseph, who both died at Warren, Pa. ; 
Maria, married George Wolgworth and died in Minden ; Peggy, married John Troman 
and died in Minden; David, of the above family, was born in Minden December 10, 
1794, and married December 19, 1833, Magdalen Diefendorf, who was born May 4, 
1804, and died June 8, 1838. Their children were : Susanna, who died aged three 
years, and David G. Mr. Hackney married second, Mrs. Christianna Lipe (born Scott), 
and died January 5, 1873. David G. was born in Minden May 23, 1838, and after at- 
tending the public schools was sent to Fort Plain and Cazenovia Seminaries. He was 
engaged in farming until 1860, when he came to Fort Plain and formed a partnership 
with Menzo Crouse in the grocery busines.":. The firm continued business under the 
name of Crouse & Hackney until about 1865. Mr. Hackney was also engaged with 
William Crouse in buying and selling wool, hops and cheese, which partnership lasted 
until about 1882, since which time Mr. Hackney has operated alone. A Democrat in 
politics, he has been for four years president of ttie village of Fort Plain and a member 
of the State Loan Commission during Governor Hoffman's administration. He was 
postmaster of Fort Plain during President Cleveland's administration, and was appomicd 
by Governor Hill one of the Commissioners of Fisheries. The Hackney Hose Company 
of Fort Plain is named in honor of Mr. Hackney. Mr. Hackney married Mary E. 
daughter of James Edwards, and they have four children, viz.- Catharine E., wife of 
Edward Shults of New York; William C, married Anna, daughter of George A. 




,J-^, 9^^. 




FAMILY SKETCHES 67 

Streeter of Johnstown, and has one son, George Streeter Hackney ; William C. is 
cashier in the State Treasury Department ; Mary, Ellen, and David G., jr. 

Haslet, William Alanson. — The original settler of the Haslet family in the Mohawk 
valley was Thomas Haslet, grandfather of W. A. Haslet. He emigrated from England 
and settled in Greenbush. His son Thomas learned the hatter's trade and settled in 
Florida. The latter married Eunice, daughter of Gideon Curtiss, who was from New 
Haven, but became one of the early settlers of Florida. They had eight children, of 
whom William A. was the oldest son and was born in Florida, April 23, 1804. He 
married, May 25, 182G, Elizabeth, daughter of Matthias Becker, and the same month 
came to Fort Plain and having learned his father's trade, engaged in that business. He 
erected a shop and dwelling on the site of the present residence of F. S. Haslet. He 
was one of the original stockholders and directors of the Port Plain Bank, and in Jan- 
uary, 18.58, was elected president of that institution, and upon the organization of the 
National Fort Plain Bank occupied the same position up to the time of his death. He 
was a Democrat in politics and in 18-18 was elected member of assembly, but declined a 
renomination. His last political office was as delegate to the state convention held at 
Syracu.se in 1874. He died October 13 of the same year. Joim Becker Haslet, his 
only child, was born in Fort Plain March 10, 1827, and after attending the local schools 
finished his education at an academy in Poughkeepsie. He was engaged with his 
father in business, and after the death of the latter carried on the concern alone a few 
years. He devoted a large share of his time to the aflairs of the National Fort Plain 
Bank, and the Fort Plain National Bank, holding in both of these institutions the posi- 
tion of vice-president. In early life a Democrat, since 1S80 he affiliated with the Re- 
publicans, but was never an aspirant for political honors He married first, October 21, 
1851, Margaret Lasira Martin of Michigan February 3, 1858, he married Elizabeth, 
daughter of Jacob Sternbergh of Albany. He died January 30, 1886. Frederick 
Sternberg Haslet, the only child of John B. and Elizabeth Sternberg Haslet, was born 
in Fort Plain October 6, 18G2. After attending the local schools he graduated, in 1881, 
from the Clinton Liberal Institute and in the following year he entered the employ of 
the National Fort Plain Bank, and in 1886 was elected assistant ca.shier of the same in- 
stitution, and in 1888 cashier, which position he still holds. He is a Republican in 
politics. September 23, 1891. he married Edith Catherine, daughter of Alfred De GrafT 
of Fonda. 

Hudson, William, Minden, was born at Cherry Valley, April 6, 1820, and was the son 
of William Hudson, who married Mary Allen, and had the following family: Ephraim, 
who died at Tarrytown; Elza, who married Giles Cook and died at Albany; Lucia 
Maria, widow of William Stayner, resides in Minden ; William ; and Lucius Putnam, 
who went south before the war, and has not since been heard from. The parents of 
William, our subject, removed to Minden when he was five years old. He received a 
common school education and taught school until 1867, when he engaged in njarket 
gardening, which he now carries on. He married Anna Jane Snyder, and has five chil- 
dren : Mary Eliza, William Augustus, Lucius Prescott, Anna Maude, and Howard 
Farley. 



68 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Houpt, Ferdinand J., Glen, one of four children of Alpheus F. and Sabrina (Odell) 
Houpt, was born in the town of Dryden, Tompkins county, the other children being 
Mary J., Ella (Mrs. J. W. Hiles of Dryden), Letitia (Mrs. I. W. Sharpstine), who is now 
dead. The grandfather was Philip Houpt of Dryden. F. J. Houpt was married June 
8, 1887, to Carrie Putraan, daughter of John V. and Mary K. (Van Buren) Putman of 
GleD,'she being one of two children, the other being Abram V. Putman, They have 
two children : Mabel L. and Victor P. Houpt. Mr. Houpt engaged in railroad busi- 
ness in 1880 as station agent and telegraph operator and continued it until 1887, when 
he became a dealer in ha}', a business he is still engaged in. He is a member of the 
firm of Lunny & Houpt, having their headquarters in New York. 

Hill, Arthur, Canajoharie, was born on the old homestead, near the village of Ames, 
July 28, 1852, a son of Gifford A. and Harriet (Lansing) Hill. The early life of Arthur 
was spent on the old farm. He received his education in the Ames Academy, and in 
the Hungerford Institute of Jefferson county, and Fort Plain Seminary. He left school 
at the age of twentj', and taught school for three terms. January 26, 1879, he married 
Essie Vosburgh, daughter of Jacob and Almira (Gardenier) Vosburgh of Flat Creek. At 
this time he moved to Canajoharie, where he engaged in the produce business, continuing 
three years, and then bought the livery business of S. A. Field, which he conducted 
for eight years. He then returned to the produce business, which he still follows. He 
is an active worker in the Republican party, and in the spring of 1892 he was elected 
bv the largest majority of any man on the ticket, to the office of highway commis- 
sioner. Mr. and Mrs. Hill are members of the Canajoharie Methodist church. 

Hill, Charles G., Canajoharie, was born in Canajoharie, June 10, 1862, and is a son of 
Gifford and Harriet (Lansing) Hill. Squire Hill, the great-grandfather, was born in 
Scotland and came to this country previous to the revolution, bringing his wife and 
nine children, five sons and four daughters. They settled on this farm and it has ever 
since been in the hands of the Hill family, being now four generations. Squire Hill 
was an officer in the revolution. His wife was Dorothy, daughter of Ebenezer and 
Sabrina (Whittaker) Walker of Rehoboth. They had these children : Bethiah, born 
in 1772: Zaccheus, Ebenezer, William, Squire, Pliny, May, Elizabeth and Dorothy. 
Squire, the fourth son and grandfather of Charles G., was born in 1790 and married, 
January 31, 1811, Sarah Arthur of Lewis county; they were the parents of three chil- 
dren : Bradford, Pamelia and Gifford A. The latter was born April 4, 1824, and made 
his home on this farm. He was educated at Ames Acadeny and June 2, 1849, he mar- 
ried Harriet, daughter of Cornelius and Lydia (Reed) Lansing of Saratoga county, and 
they had six children, all of whom are living : Audella, wife of Dewitt Hills of Herki- 
mer county ; Arthur, born July 28, 1851 ; Pamelia, wife of Irving J. Simmons of Cana- 
joharie ; Lydia, wife of Jay Vosburg of Flat Creek ; Flora E., who lives at home ; and 
Charles G., our subject, who conducts the old homestead, a fine place of about 200 
acres, nearly all under cultivation for hay, grain and dairy products. 

Hees, J. Ledlie, Mohawk, son of Jacob and Frances (Spraker) Hees, was born Jan- 
uary 24, 1862. He was educated at Fort Plain Institute and at Pine Plains, prepara- 
tory to a college course, which he gave up for a lucrative position in New York when 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 69 

seventeen years of age. lie remained there until lie was twenty-one, when he was 
appointed teller in the National Mohawk River Bank in Fonda, in which position he 
continued until 1885, when he was appointed cashier, being then the youngest cashier 
in the country. He still retains that office and under his care the bank dividends are ai 
large as they were when interest was much higher — thus far the dividends indeed are 
ten per cent, per annum. He married, October 12, 1887, Adela S. Moore, daughter of 
George F. Moore of Detroit, and they maintain a very handsome domestic establishment. 
Mr. Ilees is a director in the Fonda & Gloversviile Electric Railroad, in which he holds 
the office of treasurer, and he enjoys public confidence to a degree rarely reposed in so 
young a financier. 

Hodge, Augustus M., Palatine., was born in the town of Canajoharie, near Ames, 
December 3, 1836, and is a son of Abram and Caroline (Mills) Hodge. Abram (son of 
Reuben) was born in July, 1794, and was a carpenter and builder, having erected many 
houses in this town. The last work of the kind which he did was the building of the 
mill at Ames, after which he took the mill to operate, which business he followed for a 
number of years, retiring in 1844. He had five children : Orville, a retired merchant 
of Cobleskill ; Mary M., widow of the lale Dr. John H. Stafford of Canajoharie; Ellen 
P., wife of Horace Bush of Lowville; Emily, wife of E. H. Barnard of Fremont, Neb.; 
and Augustus M. Abram Hodge died in 1881, in his eighty-seventh year. The whole 
life of our subject has been spent in this town. He was educated at Ames and Low- 
ville academies, and at the age of twenty he engaged as clerk with the firm of Bush & 
Stafford, druggists, who had just opened a store on the corner of Canal and Church 
streets. He continued with them for ten years, and then purchased the interest of 
Mr. Bush, making the firm name Hodge & Stafford. In 1870 the senior member sold 
his interst to his son, Charles T. Stafford, and" the latter was a partner with Mr. Hodge 
for fourteen years, when he bought Mr. Hodge's interest in the stock, but after one 
year alone lost his health, and died in 1888. Mr. Hodge then re-purchased the stock 
and has since conducted the business alone. He has not taken any active interest in 
politics, his business absorbing his time and attention. In 1867 he married Helen 0., 
daughter of the late Edwin Williams, and they have had three sons: William R, a stu- 
dent of Syracuse University ; Albert Earl and Horace B. They are active members of 
the M. E. church, as are also the two older sons. Mr. Hodge is one of the trustees of 
the church, and president of the school board of Palatine Bridge. In 1882 he was 
elected president of the Montgomery County Bible Society, which position he held 
three years, and he has during his whole life been an earnest worker in all that tends 
to purify and elevate mankind. 

Hubbs, Charles, Root, a native of Long Island, came to the town of Root about 1802 
and settled on a farm near Rural Grove, there being but a small clearing at that time. 
His wife was Mariam Coffin, and their children were: Elizabeth, Jane, Mariam, Selah, 
Obadiab, Gideon, Hannah, David C, William C, and Charles. William C, the young- 
est son, was born in Half Moon, Saratoga county, and moved with his father to Root 
when about seven years old. He received a common school education, and lived on 
the farm where his father settled, until his death. He married Eleanor Edwards, of 
Charlestou, and they had eight children, four sons and four daughters : Charles, Jemima, 



70 HISTORY OF MONTOOMERY -COUNTY. 

Elizabeth A., Ruth, William N., Solomen E., David, and Hannah M. He was .super- 
visor of the town and held other offices. He was a Democrat, and took an active part 
in politics. Charles Hubbs. oldest son of W. C, was born July 6, 1817, and resided on 
the farm with his father until of age. He received a common school education and 
after leaving home taught school two years. He then entered the store of John Bow- 
dish, where spent several year.«, first as clerk and then as partner. He then sold out 
his interest and remained in the store as clerk several years. He was town clerk two 
years, was supervisor nine years, and a member of the legislature in 1850. In 1858 he 
married Mary J., daughter of Henry Van Buren and Elizabeth (Van Valkenburgh) Van 
Buren, his wife. Mr. Hubbs has been justice of the peace twelve years, and notary 
public since 1873. 

Hazelton, Major John F., Canajoharie, was born at Chester, Rockingham county, N. 
H.,.May 9, 1838. He was educated in Union College, from which he graduated in the 
class of 1860. He then engaged in the practice of law, but left that to raise a company 
of troops at Columbus, Wis., in July, 1862. He went into service with the Twenty- 
Third Wisconsin Volunteers as captain of Company Gr. He saw service with the Array 
of Tennessee under Gen. A. J. Smith, and was at the siege of Vicksburg. After the 
surrender of that place Captain Hazelton was appointed by President Lincoln major 
and assistant quartermaster and assigned to the Second Brigade, Third Division of the 
Sixth Corps, Army of the Potomac. In 1864 he was assigned to the Second Division 
of this Corps, where he remained until the close of the war, after which he continued 
with the general army for six months, doing duty at Fort Larned, Kan. He is an hon- 
ored member of Farrell Post, No. 61, Gr. A. R. After the war he resumed the practice 
of law for a short time at Albany, and a few months in Fulton county. In the spring 
of 1867 he moved into Schoharie county, locating at Esperance, where he practicee 
until July, 1878. While there he held the office of deputy collector of internal revenue 
for Schoharie county. He was appointed in 1807, and resigned in 1878. when he was 
appointed by President Hayes consul of the United States to Genoa (Italy), which po- 
sition he held for five years, and in 1883 was appointed by President Arthur consul to 
Hamilton (Canada) where he remained until June 1, 1885. Major Hazelton married, 
January 14, 1864, Harriet E. Isham of Esperance, and their union has been blessed by 
one son, Henry I., a reporter on the New York Advertiser. In 1887 Major Hazelton 
became half owner and editor of the Canajoharie Radii. He owns one of the finest 
dwellings in town. 

Huston, Hiram L., Canajoharie, was born on the 8th of February, 1845, in Boston, 
Mass., and is a son of Hiram and Mary L. (Stetson) Huston, both families of old New 
England stock. The father was a manufacturer. Mr. Huston's early life was spent in 
Boston and at the age of fifteen years he entered Columbia College, from which he 
graduated with the class of 1864. In the years 1865 and 1866 he traveled in Europe, 
and studied in the University of Heidelberg for about fifteen months. He began the 
study of law in New York, where he was admitted to the bar in 1868 and practiced 
there until 1873, when he came to Canajoharie and now is one of the leading members 
of his profession in the county, having been for six years a.ssistant district attorney. 
He is a Democrat and a Free Mason. On the 28ch of November, 1877, he married 
Anna, daughter of John and Catherine (Cowenhoven) Dillenback of Canajoharie. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 71 

Hees, Johannes, Palatine, wag born in Holland, March 4, 1743, and came to America 
in 1763, settling at Walkill, Ulster county. After a few years lie came to Palatine and 
settled in Stone Arabia. He was an extensive farmer and merchant, carrying on two 
stores at the time of his death. He was well educated, and being a man of deep piety 
was often called upon to officiate at funerals and also to preach, frequently going a long 
distance to fill some vacant pulpit. His children were Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and 
Elizabeth. He died August 13, 1802. His fir^t wife was Maria Christine; his second 
was Eva Coppernoll. Jacob, the third son of Johannes, was born at Stone Arabia and 
married Elizabeth Lipe. He owned a farm on the banks of the Mohawk. Ee was a 
Democrat, and served one term in the legislature ; was also a member of the constitu- 
tional convention of 1821 ; was an elder in the Reformed church, and also a leading 
man and financier. His children numbered twelve. He died in 1840, his wife surviv- 
ing him twenty-five years. Abraham, third son of Jacob, was born April 11, 1811, on 
the old farm in Palatine, where he lived and died. He was educated in the Canajoharie 
Academy and read law with Judge Daniel Cady of Johnstown, and Millard Fillmore 
of Bulfiilo. He was nia.ster in chancery under Governor Wright, and was district at- 
torney and United States commissioner, which latter ofiice he held at the time of his 
death, February 28, 1884. He practiced law over fifty years. He was one of the or- 
ganizers of the Republican party, and was an elder for many years in the Reformed 
church. He married Maria Smith of Palatine, by whom he had six children, all de- 
ceased except the oldest, Jacob. John, the third son, served in the Nineteenth New 
York Regiment (afterwards the Third Artillery), going in as private and coming out as 
captain. He died from disease brought on by exposure in the army, February 28, 1874. 
Jacob, son of Abraham, was born July 23, 1835, on the old homestead. He was edu- 
cated in the public schools and at Canajoharie Academy. In 1852 he began as clerk 
for W. Baker & Co., and in 1856 became a member of the firm, remaining until 1860. 
In 18G6 he began the clothing business at Fonda, which he has continued to the present 
time. In 1857 he married Frances Spraker of Fonda, and her death occurred Septem- 
ber 26, 1886. They had two children, Maria Louise, wife of A. S. Colvin, editor of 
the Glens Falls Daily Times, and James Ledlie, cashier of the National Mohawk River 
Bank of Fonda. October 10, 1888, Jacob Hees married Maranda Giflford Rosa, formerly 
of Wisconsin. The family are nit-nibers of the Reformed church. Mr. Hees has in his 
possession the ancient German Bible which Johannes Hees brought with him from the 
fatherland, and which, with the Prayer Book and Hymnal, formed his library. It con- 
tains the family record in German, and with the death of each child is inscribed a brief 
and appropriate prayer. This Bible is one of the oldest in the Mohawk valley, and is a 
very precious heirloom. 

Horn, Jacob J., St. JohnsviUe, son of Adam and Gertrude (ZayJ Horn, was born 
October 29, 1849, in Germany, and received his education in this country at Fort Plain. 
At the age of fifteen he began business with his father in the mill. He married, Feb- 
ruary 28, 1872, Harriet, daughter of George and Maria (^Snyder) Pickard, of English 
origin, and^they have one child, Helen E., a bright young lady, and the first to gradu- 
ate from the St. JohnsviUe High School. The parents of Jacob J. were natives of 
Germany (near Darmstadt), the father born in 1822 and the mother in 1827. They 



72 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERY COUNTY. 

were married in October, 1848, and July 4, 1850, landed in New York, having been 
seven weeks on the ocean. Adam Horn was one of a family of six children, several of 
whom came to this country and settled. His wife was a daughter of John Jacob Zay, 
who served in the array under Napoleon I. Adam located with his wife at Fort Plain, 
and worked at milling until the fall of 1864, when he came to St. Johnsville, and with 
Joseph Goeser rented a mill. In 1865 Mr. Horn took the mill for two years, after- 
wards purchasing it and continued to operate it until his death in 1884. He was a 
member of F. and A. M., also of the Lutheran church. He reared five children : Ja- 
cob J., Fredolin, Mary, Lizzie, and Gertrude. 

Johnson, William H., Amsterdam, Tribes Hill p. o , was born in the town of Anuster- 
dam June 23, 1843, and is a son of David B. and Maria (Quilhot) Johnson. David B. 
came to this county from Columbia county in 1838, and located near the West Amster- 
dam Lutheran church, where AVilliam H. was born. His early life was spent on the 
farm and attending the district school until he was eighteen years old. In 1869 he 
came to Tribes Hill, where he engaged as clerk with James B. Badey, which position 
he held until 1884, when he bought out Mr. Bailey and conducted the store alone two 
years, when Mr. Bailey bought a half interest with him. February 16, 1882, he mar- 
ried Sarah E. Holley, daughter of Cyrus and Elizabeth R. (Jones) Holley of this town. 
Mr. Johnson is one of a family of ten children ; five are now living: Sarah M., now 
Mrs. Stephen Wilde; Mary A., now Mrs. Jacob Fonda of Amsterdam; David B., jr.; 
Elizabeth, now Mrs. Charles Wilde, and William H., our subject. Their father died in 
1887 seventy-two years of age, and their mother died in 1863. Mr. Johnson has been 
a very successful business manager, and is interested in one of the largest and best gen- 
eral stores in the town of Amsterdam. He is one of the solid citizens of Tribes Hill. 

Johnson Eleazer W., sr., Amsterdam, was born on the 21st of January, 1840, at 
Johnstown and was educated at Claverack. In early boyhood he assisted his father 
about the hotel and was a farmer about fifteen years, and the past ten years he, asso- 
ciated with his son, has kept a livery in this city. He has been married twice, first on 
the 27th of September, 1858, to Lois Potter of Johnstown, by whom he had four chil- 
dren, two sons and two daughters: A. Sarah, Rodney H., Eleazer W.. jr., and Elizabeth 
A Mrs. Johnson died on the 30th of December, 1870. For his second wife he married 
Emma Batchelor of this city. They have two daughters, Mary and Lellia. Mr. John- 
son's father was born in the year 1813, at Yonker Hill in this town, and married Ann 
S. WelKs of Johnstown. They had one son, Eleazer W. 

Johnson, Richard G., M. D., Amsterdam, was born on the 13th of January, 1859, in 
the town of Florida, and was educated in the public schools and Hudson River Institute. 
He graduated from the Medical University of Pennsylvania of Philadelphia in the year 
1883 and began to practice m the city of Amsterdam. On the 20th of March, 1889, he 
married Laura D., only daughter of Joseph and Lucretia Peck of this city. His father, 
John Q. Johnson, was born at Minaville, in Florida, about the year 1824, and married 
.lennie A. Still of the town of Glen. They had seven children, four sons and three 
daughters : Jacob J., book-keeper for John Van Antwerp ; Henry A., livery and board- 
inf stables- Richard G. : James A. is a book-keeper foF a firm in Herkimer; Kate S., 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 73 

third child and oUest daughter lining, resides at home. Two daughters died iu in- 
fancy. 

Jones, James V., Amsterdam, Hagamau's Mills p. o., was born about fifty rods from 
where he now lives, and came here when he was but seven years of age to live with his 
grandfather, Samuel Jones. The latter came from Orange, N. J., and bought this place 
in 1791 when he was about twenty-seven years old. Samuel Jones was the father of 
six children; Mary; Lewis; Cornelius; Cyrus; Evehne; and Jane Annie. The 
second son, Lewis, was the father of our subject, and was born October 11, 1794. He 
alway? lived on the old farm, and in 1819 he married Sarah Hayes of Galway, Sarato- 
ga county. Her ancestors 'were also from Jersey. They were the parents of four 
children: Mary A., born May 19, 1850; Julia A., born September 11, 1821; James Y., 
born April 4, 1824, S. Chester, born April 19, 1825. The third, James V. (the subject 
of our sketch) has always lived on the old homestead. May 30, 1850, he married 
Angelica Van Alien, daughter of John and Margaret (Putnam) Van Allen, and a grand- 
daughter of Adam and Eve Van Allen. Their union has been blessed with two children, 
but both are now deceased. A grandchild of ten years (William James Jones) is the 
only descendant of this old Montgomery county family. Mrs. Jones died December 14, 
1891, aged seventy, and their son, Edwin L., died January 11, 1884, aged thirty- three, 
and their other son died in 1854 when only one year old. 

Jenkins George W., Minden, was born in Pamelia, Jefferson county, August 15, 
1846, and was the second son in a family of five children of Peter J. and Naomi (Mc- 
Daniel) Jenkins. His father was a native of the town of Danube, Herkimer county, 
and when he was eight years of age his father removed to Jefferson county. He is en- 
gaged at present as a jeweler at Sac City, Iowa. George W. obtained his education at 
the district schools of his native town, and in his early life he engaged in the mercantile 
business. At the age of twelve years he became a clerk in a general store at Paraelia, 
which was carried on by his father under the firm name of P. J. Jenkins. During the 
age of fourteen and eighteen he carried the mail between Pamelia Four Corners and 
Evan's Mills, a distance of three and a half miles. While performing this work he 
mis.sed only one trip, which was owing to a heavy rain storm in the spring of the 
year, which rendered the roads impassable. In August, 1864, he enlisted in Co. I, One 
Hundred Eighty-sixth N. Y. Vols., which viras raised at Sackett's Harbor, and was 
mustered out of service in June, 1865. Previous to his enlistment he had given up 
mercantile pursuits and engaged in farming in Pamelia. In 1868 he removed to Min- 
den and carried on farming until 1874. In the latter year he purchased the store 
property of Henry Sanders at Minden, opening a general store, in which he has since 
been engaged. In connection with his store he runs a supply cart in the towns of Dan- 
ube, Stark and Minden, covering a radius of twelve miles from his place of busine.«s. 
In politics a Republican, he has been postmaster at Minden since 1878, He married 
Ticy, daughter of Alfred B. Davis, and they have one child, Flora, wife of Fayette 
Cronkhite of Minden. 

Jackson, John Charles, Minden, was born in Marcellus, Onondaga county, September 
17, 1864, and is the oldest son in a family of four children of Amos and Julia (Holcorab) 
J 



74 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Jackson. After attending the district schools he became a student at the Wilhston 
Seminary, Basthampton, Mass., from which he graduated in I88.-1. He studied medi- 
cine with Dr. Edmund Carleton, professor of surgery at the Woman's College and 
Hospital of New York, and took a course of study at the New York Homoeopathic 
Medical College, from which he graduated in 1888. He commenced the practice of 
his profession in the latter 3'ear in Syracuse, where he remained about four months, 
and in the summer of 1888 came to Fort Plain, where he has since practiced. He is a 
Democrat m politics. He married Ida, daughter of Harvey E. Wagner of Canajoharie. 

Jones, George, Mohawk, son of Jeremiah and Electa Curray Jones, was born in 
Claverack, Columbia county, July 19, 1837. He received his education at the common 
schools and Greene County Academy. He began his business life as clerk in a 
store where he remained two years, after which he spent three years selling tobacco. 
In the spring of of 1869 he came to Fonda and engaged with Ambrose Fritts in the 
bottling business. He later established a fish, oyster and fruit market. In the spring 
of 1880 he bought the Fonda Bottling Works, and now has the largest concern of the 
kind between Albany and Utica. He has been president of the village two years, pres- 
ident of the water board two years and supervisor in 1878 and 1892 ; he is a Republi- 
can and takes an active interest in politics. He is a member of Lodge 218 of the Odd 
Fellows at Johnstown. He married Anna C. Stickles, and they have four children : 
Gernon L.. Lizzie M., Harry and William. 

Kline, Oliver S., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Florida, ilarch 10, 1853, and 
received an academic education ; was a teacher for nine years, since he has been a 
merchant and now is in the hardware business with Isaac J. De Graff under the firm 
name of De Graff & Kline. June 12, 1883, he married Martha A., youngest daughter 
of Alexander and Harriet Dorn of Princetown, Schenectady county ; they have three 
children, two sons and one daughter: Alexander D., Harold J., and Olive M. Mr. 
Kline's father, Joseph, was born at West Amsterdam, March 28, 1819; he married 
Jeannette M. Stale}' of the town of Rotterdam ; they had seven children, three sons 
and four daughters : Geroe G., Andrew J., Oliver S., Nancy, Mary J., Harriet and Ella 
A. The Kline family came from Holland and were among the early settlers in this 
alley. The ancestry of the family is Dutch, Scotch and Irish. 

Kessler Family, The. — John Keesler, a native of Germany, formerly lived where the 
village of Fort Plain in now located. He was a weaver, and died in the western part 
of this State. He married Rowena Waffle and their children were : Peter, Adam, 
Margaret, Nancy, Christopher and John. The latter was born in Minden January 10, 
1810, and married, February 14, 1830, Elizabeth Walrath. There children were, George, 
who died at Chittenango ; Peter P.; Elizabeth, wife of Christopher Lipe of Palatine ; 
Nancy, widow of William Martin, lives in Minden ; Avrela, wife of Ferdinand Smith 
of Fort Plain ; Sena, wife of George Kahler of Big Flats; Henry; Matilda, married 
John Abbott, and died in Minden ; Serena, wife of Edward S. Wagner of Benton Har- 
bor, Mich.; Clara, wife of Barney Walrath of Fort Plain ; Mary Jane, wife of Menzo 
Smith of Fort Plain; John and John W., both died young; and Edgar C, who was 
born July 8, 1858, and married Mary, daughter of Sylvester Moyer, and has three chil- 
dren ; Lula. Mabel E., and Edgar S. John died in Minden December 25, 1863. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 75 

Kimball, Professor Julius W., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Duanesburg, 
August 14, 1844 ; lie was educated in the public school and prepared for the academic 
course, but at the age of eighteen he enlisted in Company C, 14th N. Y. Heavy Artil- 
lery, and during his service, from the battle of the Wilderness to the fall of Petersburg, 
he never failed to respond to roll call ; he participated in the following battles: Spott- 
sylvania, North Ann River, Cold Harbor, siege of Petersburg, Poplar Grove Church, 
Pegram Farm, Hatcher's Run, and Fort Steadman, where he was taken prisoner March 
25, 1865. For a short time he suS'ered the horrors of Libby prison at Richmond. From 
September, 1864, until March, 186."), he served in the color guard and for a short time 
carried the regimental flag. After his return from Libby prison he was promoted to 
sergeant and was detailed to act as sergeant-major of the battalion. He afterwards 
received a second lieutenant's commission in recognition of good conduct as a soldier, 
and was honorably discharged on the 26th of August, 1865. Returning from the army, 
he resumed his studies at Starkey Seminary, Eddytown, Yates county, until 1869, 
when his father received a stroke of paralysis. This misfortune compelled him to re- 
turn home and care for his father, which he faithfully did until he died in February, 
1875. As the principal of the Burtonville school, Professor Kimball was ranked among 
the first teachers in Montgomery county. In the fall of 1876 he moved to Amsterdam 
and accepted the prinoipalship of School No. 8. He ranks among the foremost of pop- 
ular instructors in the Mohawk valley where he has for years been prominently iden- 
tified with educational interests, an intelligent, capable and enthusiastic superintendent 
and instructor, so recognized by the citizens of Amsterdam in general, and the patrons 
of the school in particular. Since 1876 much has been accomplished, and to his indi- 
vidual effort much praise is due in raising the schools to their high standard of efficiency. 
He has been president of the Montgomery County Teachers' association, and was unan- 
imously elected president of the State Teachers' association at its meeting at Eiiza- 
bethtown, Essex county, in 1887. Professor Kimball is, in the best sense of the word, 
a self-made man, and his example to the rising generation is of practical value as illus- 
trating the lofty possibitities of American citizenship. He is a member of Artisan 
Lodge No. 84, F. & A. M., and has been its master ; also of E. S. Young Post No, 33, 
Gr A. R , of the department of New York, and has been its commander. Oclober 5, 
1880, he married Belle C, youngest daughter of Robert and Mary (Chesney) McBride 
of Philadelphia; they have two sons: Wallace MacBride and Robert Almon. 

Kline, James W., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam July 20, 1813, 
and was educated in the public schools and worked at farm work until he was eighteen 
years old ; afterwards he learned the carpenter's trade and became a contractor and 
builder until 1845, when he became a general store-keeper at Tribes Hill, under the 
firm name of Kline & McDonald. In 1857 he went to Fultonville and carried on mer- 
cantile business under the firm of Wilson &L Kline for some years, when he moved to 
Amsterdam carrying on the same business under the firm of Kline & Warwick. In 
1864 he was elected sheriff of Montgomery county for three years; and was supervisor 
of the town of Amsterdam in 1887, 1888, 1889. In 1874 he was re-elected sheriS"and 
moved to Fonda. January 20, 1842, he married Ann, second daughter of Fi.sher and 
Jane Putman of Tribes Hill; they have had two sons: Stephen H. and William P., 



76 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY;COUNTY. 

both of whom are dead. Mi-. Kline's father, WiUiam, was born in Oneida county about 
the year 1779, and married Angelica Teller of Schenectady ; they had ten children, 
seven grew to adult age : James W., Cornelius, Adam W., Perry, Susan, now Mrs. 
Felthousen of Milwaukee ; two died, Stephen and Sandy. The ancestry of the family 
is of German and Holland Dutch. Mr. Kline resides here, Hving a retired life. 

Kline, Adam W., Amsterdam, was born on the 5th of February, 1818, in Amsterdam 
and was educated in the public schools of that day. In early life he was a carpenter, 
but has been a merchant and manufacturer. At one time he was president of the First 
National bank, was supervisor one year in the town of Florida, and served two terras 
as supervisor of Amsterdam. He was elected state senator for the sessions of 1866- 
67 and was chairman of the committees on trade and manufacturers and on roads and 
and bridges, and served on the committee,on banks ; he also was appointed on a special 
committee on federal relations where he took an active stand and offered the following 
resolutions : ''Resolved, That in the present crisis of National affairs it becomes all loyal 
men to exercise wisdom, prudence and moderation in the discussion and settlement of 
public measures. Resolved, That by the amendment to the Constitution the perfect 
liberty of all people, of whatever race or color, and their equality before the law, are 
guaranteed in every portion of the Union, and the power to enforce such liberty and 
equality is conferred ; that this power should be exercised by the passage of appro- 
priate laws for the protection of the freedmen from oppression, and the unflinching en- 
forcement of those laws, if necessary by the entire power of the Federal administra- 
tion in those States which seek to interfere with or contravene this enlightened princi- 
ple of the fundamental law. Resolved, That denying the dogma that a State can die 
or that it can secede, we are in favor of the admission in Congress of representatives 
and senators from every State in the Union, whenever it shall appear that they are 
unmistakably loyal, that they have been elected in accordance with the Constitution 
and the laws made in pursuance thereof, and that they can comply with the established 
tests, and not otherwise. Resolved, That recognizing in those principles a common 
ground upon which the President and Congress may stand, supported by the control- 
ling loyal sentiment of the country, we declare our trust in the fidelity of the President 
to the great principles he was elected to represent, and our confidence that the Union 
members of Congress are honestly seeking to establish those principles in wise and 
prudent action ; that in a united Executive and Congress, we feel assured will be found 
ample security for the interests, the honor and welfare of the country^and of all classes 
of its people." He was also for a time treasurer of the county. On the 22d of Feb- 
ruary, 1844, he married Bata A. Simons of Florida, whose family came from New 
England. They had three children, two sons and one daughter : Harlan Page, who 
was well educated and was mayor of Amsterdam and held other public offices and was 
one of Amsterdam's wide-awake business men. He married Delia Bennett of Amster- 
dam, by whom he had one son who lived, named Harold B. Harlan Page Kline died 
on the 28th of February, 1891, mourned by all who had (he pleasure of his acquaint- 
ance, and Mrs. Kline, his widow, is living in Hartford, Conn., where she is educating 
her son. Perry H. Kline, the other son, was an attorney-at-law and re.sided at home. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 77 

but died while this work was in progress. The daughter is Jessie E., who married 
Charles Hubbs. Mr. Adam W. Cline is living a retired life in the city that he helped 
to build and prosper. He has the sympathy of the public in his recent bereavements. 

Kyle, Rev. Joshua R., Amsterdam, was born on the 2d of August, 1834, in Greene 
county, Ohio, and was educated in the public schools and Miami University, from 
which he graduated in 1859. He is also a graduate of the United Presbyterian Theo- 
logical Seminary of Xenia, 0. He is now and has been for the past twelve years 
pastor of the Reformed church in the Fifth ward of Amsterdam. He has been married 
twice, first on the 25th of September, 1867, to Jennie M. Ostrom of West Charlton, 
and they had three living children : Grace 0., Mary J. and Jennie 0. Mr.^i. Kyle died 
on the 3d of March, 1878. On the 16th of February, 1881, he married Hattie Ostrom. 
Mr. Kyle's father (Samuel) was born in the year 1777, near Chambersburgh, Pa., and 
when quite young moved with his parents to Kentucky. He married twice, first to 
Ruth Mitchel of tliat state, and moved to Ohio soon after his marriage in 1802. They 
had six children. Mrs. Kyle died about the year 1813. For his second wife he mar- 
ried Rachel Jackson of Pennsylvania. They had fifteen children, nine sons and six 
daughters, namely : Jane, Robert, Ruth, James, William, Thomas, John, Joanna, 
Henry, Joshua R. and Ellen (twins), Roland and Martha (twins), Hugh J. and Mary. 

Kaufman, William H., Amsterdam, was born October 6, 1855, in Hagenburg, Furst- 
enthum, Schaumburg, Lippe. His father was architect and builder for Duke George of 
the above place. The son received his education in the public schools until his ninth 
year; he then entered the private schools until his thirteenth year, and then entered 
the Military Music school in Buckeburg and remained^from March, 1869, till July, 1872, 
when he took his papers of release, and was recommended to the marine band of 
Washington, D. 0: On the 14th of September, 1872, he sailed from Bremen to the 
United States, arriving in New York on the 25th of September, and at once started 
for Washington. He presented his papers to Professor Snyder, then band leader, and 
was admitted, but when examined by the marine surgeon, he was registered as not be- 
ing up to the required physical standard. He then procured work with a confectioner 
and caterer in Georgetown (Martin Hebner), who offered him a better position in his 
business as caterer for the White House, which he had charge of from 1873 until 1879, 
when James Breslin (of the Gilsey House, New York) gave him charge of the pastry 
and cooks of the Netterwood House, New Jersey. He is a member in good standing 
of Artisan Lodge No. 84, F. & A. M., and has taken the 32d degree. He is a member 
of the board of trade, and other organizations, is treasurer of the Knights of Pythias 
joint 'board, the Chuctenunda, Woodbine, and Berliner lodges, and is present chair- 
man of the board of trustees of the German Evangelical Lutheran church, and treas- 
urer of its congregation. He is also treasurer for the Royal Arcanum No. 1,259. On 
May 8, 1883, he married Minnie, daughter of Rev. Dr. G. L. Rietz of Amsterdam. They 
have two daughters, Minnie and Nellie. He started business in Amsterdam May 10, 
1884, as confectioner and caterer for weddings and parties. 

Kinsley, Collins A., Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in Ballston, Sara- 
toga county, April 23, 1835, and is a son of Abiel and Charity (Dickson) Kinsley. 



78 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Abiel, the father of our subject, was born and brought up in Connecticut and came to 
Saratoga county about 1815 ; he was a patriot soldier in the war of 1812 and received 
two wounds, which made him an invalid during his lifetime. He died in February, 
18-17, leaving five children, of whom three are living: Horton H., in California ; Mrs. 
Alma Fostmire of Mayfield, Fulton county ; and Collins A., our subject. His parents 
moved to Fulton county when Collins was six years old, where he received an educa- 
tion in the public schools. At the age of eighteen he went west where he traveled ex- 
tensively, operating saw-mills, until 1862, when our country called for volunteers to 
quell the rebellion. In July of that year he enlisted in the Ninth Michigan Cavalry. 
At first this regiment was put in the Fourth Corps under General Burnside, and his 
first service was seen on the Morgan raid into Pennsylvania. He was also in the bat- 
tle at Cumberland Gap, and having been placed in the army of Tennes.see he was also in 
the siege of Knoxville. His regiment was then ordered to Nashville, where they were 
furnished fresh horses and then ordered under Sherman in his famous march to the 
sea; stopping by the way to drive the rebels from Atlanta. He was under General 
Francis Kilpatrick the remainder of the march. He was at the battle of Savannah, 
and also at Aikin, Ga., where he was wounded in the leg. At the close of the war he 
went back to Michigan, where he remained two years, then going into Wisconsin, 
Minnesota, and from there to Missouri where he stayed three years, coming back to 
Fulton county in 1872, where he opened a grocery and provision store, which he con- 
ducted for two years, then going to Perth, and starting a store which was burned one 
year later. He rebuilt, however, and the next year he sold out and moved to Haga- 
man's Mills, where he joined I. P. Benn until 1884, when he built the fine residence where 
he now lives. January 31, 1872, he married Mary A. Bishop of Mayfield ; they were 
the parents of one child who lived but three years, Alvah H., born March 12, 1873, 
died January 12, 1876. 

Kline, George J., Amsterdam, Tribes Hill p. c, was born in the town of Amsterdam 
on what is known as the old George Kline farm, May 8, 1846, and is a son of John G. 
and Mary (Clark) Kline. John G. was a son of George, who was also a native of this 
country, a son of John Kline who came hither from Holland and located in this town, 
and held a grant from George the Third for a square mile of land on the north side of 
the Mohawk river. His son George was his third child, born in 1783. He married 
Sarah Van Ness, by whom he had nme children ; two are living : Jane Walter of Am- 
sterdam, and Catherine Plantz of Johnstown. John G., the second son, married in 
1845 and was the father of two children, John (deceased), and our subject, George J. 
Mr. Kline was educated in the public schools of Amsterdam, and lived with his mother 
(after his father's death, October 7, 1850), until his marriage to Susan Quilhot, Septem- 
ber 28, 1871. In 1876 he bought the farm of Jninety-five acres where he now lives, 
known as the StoUer farm, to which he has added many improvements, makmg it one 
of the prettiest and best in the northern part of the town. He is the father of three 
children : Elizabeth, born January 9, 1873 ; Mary A., born July 24, 1880, and Belle, 
born April 6, 1882. 

Kellogg, Dayton Smith, was born in Cornwall, Litchfield county. Conn., and is the 
youngest son of John and Polly (Clark) Kellogg. For several years he received private 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 79 

instruction from Rev. Herman Daggett, formerly principal of the Foreign Mission 
School at Cornwall. This school was founded by the American Board of Foreign Mis- 
sions for the purpose of educating missionaries for the foreign field. The first mission- 
aries to the Sandwich Islands were educated there. He afterwards attended the 
Cornwall Seminary, which for years was in charge of the Rev. E. W. Andrews, who af- 
terward became pastor of the Broadway Tabernacle. Graduating from this school, he 
became a teacher, and was for two years principal of Union Academy, Springfield, N. J. 
He then went to New York and studied dentistry with several of the most eminent 
dentists of the country, includnig Drs. Harvey and John Burdell, and Solyman 
and Augustus Brown. In 1845 he came to Fort Plain to visit his friend, Rev'. Thomas 
Armitage, who was then in charge of the Methodist church of Fort Plain, and was in- 
duced to settle there and open a dental office. He at oiice acquired a very lucrative 
and successful practice which ha.s continued to the present time. He was the first res- 
ident dentist in that section of the Mohawk valley. In 1854 he became editor and 
part proprietor of the Mohawk Valley Register, which he conducted as an independent 
journal for several years. In 1880 he inaugurated an enterprise which was instru- 
mental in giving to Fort Plain a large number of its most elegant residences. By cut- 
ting a street along the face of Prospect Hill, at a great expenditure of labor and capital, 
and bridging the Otsquago creek at the foot of Centre street, he made this beautiful 
eminence (which overlooks the most beautiful portion of the Mohawk valley) accessi- 
ble and very desirable for residences. Dr. Kellogg is of the eighth generation from 
Lieut. Samuel Kellogg, one of the brothers who emigrated from England in 1640. 
Jo.seph Kellogg settled in Hadley, Mass.; Daniel in Norwalk, Conn., and Samuel in 
Hatfield, Mass. The late Loyal C. Kellogg, for thirteen years chief justice of Vermont, 
<Jov. William Pitt Kellogg and Clara Louise Kellogg are descendants of the same 
branch. Judge Kellogg, who graduated at Yale College in 176ci, and who for thirty- 
two years was in public life, was the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, as he 
was also of the late Judge Frederick Kellogg, who died at Cornwall in August, 1891, in 
his ninetieth year, after long service of the public in various capacities. The offices of 
probate judge and court of record have been in the Kellogg family for more than one 
hundred years, and are still held by Philo Kellogg of Cornwall. John Kellogg, the 
father of our subject of this sketch, was an old school Democrat, and was one of the 
seven in the town who stood together on political questions for several years under 
the "stand up" law of Connecticut. Dr. Kellogg married Hannah, daughter of David 
and Mary Waddell of Mariaville, N. Y. In her early childhood she evinced a preco- 
cious intellect, a love of learning, and a great fondness for books. She attended Mrs. 
Willard's school at Troy, and afterwards graduated from the State Normal School at 
Albany with honors, being chosen to write the parting song at the close of the session. 
At the opening of the Fort Plain Seminary and Female Collegiate Institute she was one 
of the first of the 513 students under Principal J. E. King, now of Fort Edward Insti- 
tute, and was at the close of the first collegiate year the first and only graduate. She 
then accepted the position of teacher of languages and higher English in the school, and 
became preceptress under Rev J. E. Latimer, late dean of Boston Theological Univer- 
sity, which position she filled with great ability until her marriage in 1858. Mrs. Kel- 



80 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

logg died August 7, 1890. Their only child. J. Willie Waddell Kellogg, died Novem- 
ber 2, 1867, at the age of about a year and a half. 

Kelly, George, Canajoharie, was born near Sprakers, in the town of Root, March 25, 
1847, and is a son of Charles R. and Gertrude (Stowitts) Kelly. The 6rst of this fam- 
ily that can be traced was Ebenezer Kelly, who was a native of Dutchess county, where 
he was born October 27, 1782. He married Susan Viel and they were the parents of 
four children: Dean, George, Charles R. and Eliza. Mrs. Kelly died May 3, 1822, 
aged thirty-seven years, and he married for his second wife Abigail Legg. She died 
December 21, 1840. Mr. Kelly died August 16, 1865. Charles R., the youngest son, 
was born December 2-1, 1806, in Herkimer county near Middleville. He learned the 
carpenter's trade and married, in March, 1842, Gertrude Stowitts of Root. In 1837 his 
people moved to Root, where they remained until 1849, when Charles R., in company 
with George (his brother), bought the farm where the subjects of this sketch have since 
resided. Charles R. was the father of three children : Carrie E., wife of Oscar Van 
Evera ; Mary E., wife of C. W. Nipe of Frankfort, Herkimer county, and George, our 
subject. George was but two years old when his parents moved on the farm where he 
has since lived. He was educated at Sprakers and Canajoharie Academy, and assisted 
his father on the farm until his death, which occurred September 15, 1874, and since 
then he has conducted the farm for himself. April 8, 1891, he married Ada Lehman, 
daughter of John and Anna (McLoughlin) Lehman. They have one child, Charles L., 
born March 24, 1892. Mrs. Kelly is a member of the Reformed church at Sprakers. 

Klinkhart, John, Canajoharie, was born in the town of Canajoharie, August 31, 1843, 
and is a son of Amos. He was educated in the public school, and when about seven- 
teen he took his father's place in the distillery at St. Johnsville, which position he filled 
for two years. August 30, 1862, he enlisted in the 153d N. Y. Volunteers, being mus- 
tered in October 18, 1862. He first saw service in the Red River campaign under 
General Banks, at the battles of Pleasant Hill, Sabine Cross Roads, Atchalafaya, and 
Mausura Plains. After this campaign they were ordered to the Shenandoah valley, 
and under General Sheridan were in the battles of Winchester, Fisher's Hill, and Cedar 
Creek. His regiment was then ordered to Savannah, where they served the remainder 
of their enlistment. They were mustered out of service October 18, 1865, landing in 
Canajoharie on that date just three years from the day they left home. After his re- 
turn he assisted his father one year and then conducted a farm in the eastern part of 
the town for eight years. He then bought the farm where he now resides. December 
4, 1867, he married Mary L., daughter of Christopher Spear of State Bridge. Oneida 
county, and they have had four children : Willis L., born September 13, 1868 ; Amelia 
M., born November 24, 1871; J. Amos, born December 19, 1874; and Ida May, born 
May 29, 1880". Mr. and Mrs. Klinkhart are active members of the German Lutheran 
Church, in which Mr. Klinkhart has held the office of trustee for four years. 

Lewis, Peter J., Amsterdam, was born in West Galway, Fulton county, November 
25, 1836, and was educated in the public schools and studied law with Sacia & Smith of 
this city ; he was admitted to the bar in 1867 and to the United States bar in 1888 and 
has always practiced in Amsterdam. He was a close student and attained a high de- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 81 

gree of efficiency in his profession and is a member of the Stale Bar Association. Jnly 
19, 1875, he married Annah Parkhill of Ehnira, a school teacher of that city and the 
ceremony was performed there in the Fir.st Methodist Clmrch. Mr. Lewis died January 
10, 1892, monrned by a host of professional and other friends. Mrs. Lewis's father, 
Hamilton B. Parkhill, was born in Steuben county and married Angeline Earnest of the 
town of Florida, and had seven children : Elizabeth, Charlotte, Mary, Angeline, Delos 
L., Alberta and Annah. 

Lindsay, William, Amsterdam, Rockton p. o., was born in county Armagh, Ire- 
land, November 4, 1859, and is a son of William and Martha (Totten) Lindsay, who 
came to this country in 1881 and first settled in Amsterdam where the family of four- 
teen children made their home, excepting Stewart, who died in September, 1884, and 
William, who came to Rockton in 1886. He had been educated in one of the regular 
schools of Ireland, and had spent five years apprenticeship in a grocery store, so when 
he came to Rockton he took up the business he was acquainted with and built and con- 
ducted a large grocery store which he sold March 1, 1892. While in the grocery store 
he began dealing in real estate, having built ten residences, five of which he still owns. 
He has worked hard and deserves all the success he has received. April 18, 1888, he 
married Elizabeth S. Ruman, daughter of Charles Ruman, who came from England 
about twenty years ago. Their union has been blessed with two children : Edna M., 
born September 10, 1889 ; Violet E., born March 21, 1892. Since he came here he has 
been in partnership with Mr. Austin in the ice business, also they have started the lime 
trade which is very successful. Mr. Lindsay has been very prosperous and he feels 
confidence in its continuance. He has held positions of honor and trust, has been post- 
master since an office was opened in June, 1888; was town clerk in 1890 ; and a direc- 
tor of the New York Building and Loan Association. 

Lewis, Sylvester D., Amsterdam, was born in Gorhara, Ontario county, on the 3d 
day of April, 1828; was prepared for college at Genesee Wesleyan Seminary, Lima, 
and graduated from Union College in 1857. He attended the Albany Law School and 
was admitted to the bar in 1859 and practiced law at Avoca, Steuben county, several 
years, but this not being to his taste, he began the study of medicine at the Albany 
Medical College, graduating in 1866. He practiced medicine in the .state of Illinois ten 
years. In the spring of 1876 he located at Amsterdam. On the 20th of August, 1857, 
he married Margaret E. Clute of Schenectady, who died April 29, 1888. He has two 
sons living : Francis D. and George G. The oldest is a graduate of Union College and 
is now private secretary of Congressman John Sanford. George G. is a graduate of 
Albany Medical College and in 1891 he went abroad to perfect his studies and was six 
months in Paris, and six months in Berlin, and is now in partnership with Dr. D. I. 
McMartin in Amsterdam. 

Lohmeyer, Henry, Amsterdam, was born in Prussia, on the 27th of December, 1839, 
and was educated in the public schools of that country and at the age of fifteen his 
father gave him his time. He^was the youngest of seven children and on the 6th of 
October, 1858, he came to America, landing at New York. He located in the Mohawk 
valley and worked for Aaron Pepper ; he was always industrious and sober and has 



82 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

now accumulated a fine property and enjoys life in travel and leisure. On the 4th of 
December, 18GG, he married Martha A., only child living of John and Eva Taylor of 
the town of Florida, on what is known as the Taylor farm. Her father, John, was born 
on tlie 3d of August, 1782, in New Jersey ; he married twice, first to Anna Voorhees 
about 1807, and came to Charleston in 1808 ; in the same year he bought a farm in the 
town of Florida and also conducted a tannery for many years. They had seven chil- 
dren, four grew to maturity, three sons and one daughter : Ruluff F., Keziah W., David 
H., and Joseph C. Mrs. Taylor died in the year 1823. On the 3d of July, 1824, for 
his second wife he married Eve Schuyler, who was born in New Jersey in 1787. They 
had three children and all grew to maturity: Martha A., Alice J., and Jacob S. John 
Taylor died on the 7th of June, 1864; Mrs. Taylor died on the 12th of January, 1884, 
aged ninety-seven. The ancestry of the family is English, Dutch and German. 

Lutton, Mrs. John, Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in Amsterdam, May 
1, 1834, and is a daughter of Jeremiah and Maria (De Graff) De Graff. (See De Graff 
biography.) Her early life was spent with her parents, she attending the district 
school at Manny's Corners. September 7, 1859, she married John Lutton, who came 
to this country in 1846 and settled in Amsterdam. Immediately after marriage they moved 
to Rochester where he rented a farm, remaining there fifteen years. Then they re- 
turned to Mrs. Lutton's birthplace, staying there two years, when they came to the 
large dairy farm of sixty-three acres where Mrs. Lutton now lives. They were the 
parents of nine children, six of whom are living : Fannie M., wife of Lewis Water- 
street of Amsterdam, was born December 2, 18G0; Mary Alma, born May 24, 
1868; Jessie G., born September 2, 1809; Elizabeth C, born May 28, 1871; Mag- 
gie De Graff, born November 10, 1873 ; Wales F., born January 11, 1875. John 
Lutton died October 17, 1890, aged sixty-two years. 

Lester, James, Amsterdam p. o., was born in Ireland, March 17, 1815, and is a 
son of John and Mary (Montgomery) Lester. When his parents died (1837) James 
came to this country to try his fortune. He first settled in Albany, where he 
remained less than two years, when he came to Amsterdam. His first work was the 
assisting to enlarge the locks on the Brie canal. He left that work, moving on the 
farm where he now lives, which he then rented; in 1861 he bought the farm. April 
10, 1842, he married Fannie Shannon of Albany. Three children live to bless their 
union: Mary J., born July 14, 1844; she is now Mrs. Greene of Amsterdam; John 
W., born March 11, 1857; and Louisa J., born March 13, 1859. Mr. Lester has been a 
very successful farmer, and having started with small capital he is now the owner of 
one of the best farms of eighty-four acres that can be found in this section, and says 
he knows how he came by it; it was done by his own hard work, ambition, and putting 
his money to good use. Mrs. Lester's memory of the first village of Amsterdam is very 
distinct, and she has seen it grow from a very small place to the present prosperous 
city. 

Lutton, William, Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in County Down, Ire- 
land, December 25, 1832, and is a son of Thomas and Rebecca (Hare) Lutton. His 
father died when he was but a year old and his mother when he was only twelve. He 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 83 

attended tlie public schools where he acquired education enough to answer him in his 
business. He came to this country in 1858, going directly to Hagarnan's Mills where 
he worked by the day for about six years, wlien he bought nine acres of land on which 
he built his house and barns. July 22, 1859, he married Agnes Heatty of the same 
county in Ireland, who was one of his schoolmates. Their union has been blessed by 
six children, four of them living : Sarah J., born April 30, 18C0; John, born December 4, 
18G1 ; Robert W., born April 5, 18G3; Fannie, now Mrs. Frazer, born January 11, 
18G7. The names of those they mourn are George Albert, who died July 2G, 1891, 
aged eighteen; and Rebecca, wife of B. Fitzgerald, who died April 18, 1892, aged 
twenty-seven. In 1874 he bought about seven acres to add to his little farm, and he 
with his happy family are comfortable and contented with their prosperity. 

Luke, Mrs. Sarah C, Florida, daughter of Thomas and Caroline McClumpha, was 
born in the town of Florida on the 6th of June, 1843. She was married in 1870 to 
George B. Luke, son of Samuel Jackson Luke of the same town, where she has always 
lived. Mr. Luke died in 18S0. There are five children, four of whom are Gilbert M., 
Carrie H., Fi-ederick and Thomas J., living at home with their mother; Edwin T., the 
eldest, occupying a position of trust in the office of S. Sanford & .Sons, carpet manu- 
facturers, Amsterdam. 

Lambert Family, The. — Peter, father of John P. Lambert, was one of the first to en- 
list in the revolutionary army. He resided and died in Minden. He married a Miss 
Lipe, and of their family there were two sons, John P. and Peter. The latter died in 
Canajoharie. John P. was born in Mmden, and died in his native town in IS-IS, aged 
forty-five years. He married Margaret, daughter of Frederick Moyer, and their children 
were: Moyer, John, Peggy, wife of William Alpaugh of Minden; Peter, a resident of 
Minden; Mose.s, Anna Maria, who died smgle; David, Menzo, died young; Daniel 
Alfred, died young; Adam, wlio lives in Minden ; and Nancy Catherine, wife of Wilber 
F. Timmerman of Johnstown. Moyer, the oldest in the family, was born in Minden, 
February 17, 1823, where he died on March 5, 1881. He married Sally, daughter of 
.Jacob Walrath. Their five children were John, who died in Minden, leaving a widow 
and daughter, Melvina, wife of Abraham Wagner of Stark; Nancy Catlierine, who died 
young ; Menzo, and D. Etta, a school teacher in the Fort Plain public school. Menzo, 
son of Moyer, was born in Minden August 12, 1857, and married for his first wife, Alice 
Flanders, by whom he has two children, Bertha E. and Carrie E. His second wife was 
Emma Walrath, and they have one child, Earl Theodore. Mr. Lambert learned the 
trade of carpenter, which he followed till 1888, when, owing to the death of his brother, 
he had the care of the home farm. 

Lighthall Family. — The first settler of this family in the Mohawk valley was Francis 
Lighthall, who came from Germany, He had six sons, viz. : Nicholas, John, Francis, 
Daniel, George and Abraham. George was born in Minden in 1797, and died in 1876. 
He married Betsey, daughter of Peter House, and they had thirteen children, one of 
whom died in infancy ; the others were: Peter, Mary, who married Abraham Snyder, 
and died in Minden ; Nancy, wife of Peter House of Minden ; Daniel, who died in Min- 
den ; Sally, widow of Roswell Houpt; Catherine, died young; Eliza, married Edward 



84 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Bean, and died at Watertown ; Margaret, wife of George White of Saratoga Springs; 
Delia, wife of John O'Brien of Watertown; Lavinia, married Milton Jones, and died at 
Watertown; Lucinda, wife of Peter Lints of East Schuyler; and John Lighthall of 
Saratoga Springs. Peter, the eldest of the above family, was born in Minden February 
15, 1810, and married March 26, 1839. Eva, daughter of Peter Monk. She was born 
in Danube July 5, 1813. They have eight children : Katie, wife of Matthew Brohm of 
Minden ; Nancy, wife of John Melick of East Albany ; Mary, wife of Jeptha Hand of 
Stark; Martha, wife of Jerome Petrie of Danube ; George, born in Minden April 15, 
1849, married Luella Keller, and has two children, William, and Frank, who resided in 
Minden ; Lizzie, wife of Frederick Detinger of Minden ; Menzo, born in Minden July 5, 
1853, married Carrie Bronner, and lives in Minden; Irving, born in Minden May 31, 
1857, and married Cotha Bronner and lives in Minden. 

Lambert, Emory E., Cauajoharie, was born in Frey's Bush, Minden, March 29, 1859, 
and is a son of John and Mana (Dunckle) Lambert. The earliest ancestor of the family 
we can trace was John Lambert, grandfather of Emory E. He was a native of this 
county and married Margaret Moyer. They were the parents of eight children, of 
whom John, the father of Emory E., was the second. He was born July 9, 1824, and 
always lived in Minden. He married June 20, 1851, Maria, daughter of Abram Dunc- 
kle of Canajoharie, and they were the parents of two children : Edwin, who died Sep- 
tember 24, 1888, aged thirty-six years, and Emory E. The early life of the latter was 
spent in the town of Minden, where he was educated in the common schools and 
assisted his father upon the farm until his marriage, which occurred January 30, 1884. 
His wife was Annie, a daughter of Ira and Nancy (Moyer) Dunckle. In 1888 Mr. 
Lambert bought the Wohlgemuth farm of 109 acres, which is considered one of the best 
in this town, the principal crops being hay and grain. Mr. and Mrs. Lambert are 
active members of the Ames Methodist church. 

Lasher, Arnold V., Canajoharie, was born in Stone Arabia May 20, 1840, and is a son 
of Samuel and Harriet (Vedder) LasheJr. Sebastian Lasher, who was a native of the town 
of Hillsdale, Columbia county, resided at Stone Arabia, and was the father of several 
children, one of whom wa« the father of Arnold V. He married Phebe Vosburg, and 
they had five sons and five daughters, eight of whom are still living: Samuel, a farmer 
of Frey's Bush ; Aaron, a retired blacksmith of Fort Plain ; David, a farmer of Palatine ; 
Henry, a farmer of Stone Arabia; Maria, widow of John Coppernoll of Fort Plain; 
Nancy, wife of Frank Bowers of Fort Plain ; Lany, of Minden ; and Clara, widow of 
Henry Smith of Nelliston. Samuel, the oldest son, was born in Stone Arabia in 1809, 
where his early life was spent. He married Harriet, daughter of John Vedder of Pal- 
atine, and they had seven cliildren, five of whom survive : Agnes, wife of E. D. Evans 
of Gloversville ; Irene, wife of Marvin Young of Frey's Bush; Gertrude, wife of 
Christian Wyngard of Frey's Bush; John, a farmer of Sharon; and Arnold V. His 
childhood was spent in Stone Arabia until the age of twelve, when his parents moved 
to Frey's Bush, where they have ever since lived. Arnold was educated in the common 
schools. August 25, 1862, he enlisted in the One Hundred Fifty Third Regiment N. 
Y. Volunteers, and first saw service under General Banks in Louisiana, at the battles of 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 85 

Pleasant Hill and Sabine Cross Roads; be was also in tbe battle at Mausura Plains, at 
Winchester, September 19, 1864; at Cedar Creek October 19, 1864; at Fisher's Hill 
and at Opequan. He was mustered outOctober 17, 18C5, being just three years to aday 
in service. Although in so many engagements, he received but one slight wound. Af- 
ter his return he married Almira Hastings, daughter of Joseph and Almira (Colman) 
Hastings of Sprout Brook, October 21, 1867, and they have one son, Stanley H., born 
June 7, 1872. After his marriage Mr. Lasher bought the faim where he now resides 
of Jacob Farqueharson, and he has since devoted his time to its cultivation. Mr. and 
Mrs. Lasher are supporters cf the Methodist church at Sprout Brook. 

Lottridge, Corneliu.s, Mohawk, Fonda p. o., was born December 22, 1805, onthe old 
homestead, and died Febeuary 22, 1891, aged eighty-six years. He was a son of 
Robert and Sarah (Smith) Lottridge, who were of Geiman descent, and settled about 
three miles from Fonda on the farm now owned by Robert Lottridge, and which has 
been in the family over 100 years. Cornelius married Alida, daughter of H. Wemple, 
and they had three sons and one daughter. Two of the children survive. WiUiam T., 
youngest son of Cornelius, was born December 29, 1834, in the town of Johnstown, 
where he resided until 1851 and then moved to Mohawk. He was educated in the 
common school, and in 1856 married Catherine, daughter of Jacob R. Schuyler, by 
whom he had three children : Cornelius, Schuyler, and Mary E., wife of Winslow Van 
Dusen. Mr. Lottridge was elected assessor in 1892, and since 1886 has been in the hay 
business. 

Liddle, Thomas, Mohawk, son of Alexander and Nellie ( Blood ) Liddle, was born in 
Schenectady county in January, 18H9. His grandfather, Thomas Liddle, was born in 
Scotland and came to America about the year 1800 with his parents, who settled in 
Oswego county, removing thence to Schenectady county. He was a farmer and dairy- 
man and made what was termed English cheese. His wife was Janette Robinson. 
They raised a large family of children, and both died in Schenectady county. Alexan- 
der, son of Thomas, was born in Schenectady county, and followed farming. He was 
a Scotch Presbyterian, and in politics a Whig. His children were : Thomas, John, 
Stewart and Robert (deceased), Mary, Sarah, Ida, and Nettie (deceased). He died in 
1880. His wife, Nettie Blood, died about 1886. The subject of this sketch received a 
common school education, and at seventeen years of age began to work as clerk ; at 
twenty he opened a dry goods store in Amsterdam, which he conducted for ten years, 
and then spent ten years upon a farm in Albany county, after which he engaged in the 
clothing and coal business. He has been a manufacturer of knit goods about eight 
years and is now in the employ of his brother and son in that business in Amsterdam, 
In 1880 he was elected to the assembly from Albany county, and in 1885-86 from 
Montgomery county, on the Republican ticket, by 250 to 300 majority over his opponent 
in a Democratic county. He was mayor of Amsterdam in 1887-88. and in 1891 was 
elected sheriff by 300 majority. He married Anna, daughter of William and Maria 
(Johnson) Kunklem of Watervliet. They have had three children : William A., a grad- 
uate of the Albany Medical College, and a student of fine promise; Nellie and Anna. 
He is a member of the M. E. church, and his wife of the Presbyterian church. He is 
a Mason, a member of the Red Men and Knights of Pythias, and is an active politician. 



86 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Lohman, Nicholas, Palatine Bridge, was born in Germany on the Rhine, Augu.et 14, 
1841. and is a son of William and Elizabeth (Sliannon) Lolinian. In 1855 the family 
sailed for this country, and landing in New York came to Fonda, where both father 
and son worked for farmers in the town of Mohawk. Nicholas was bound out to a 
farmer named N. McLaughlin for his board and clothes, consisting of blue jean overalls 
and jacket. He was often obliged to stand on a half bushel measure and turn the fan- 
ning mill until eleven or twelve o'clock at night. His shoes he made him.«elf, out of 
the bark of trees bound by willow wisps, and in winter time these formed his only cov- 
ering for his feet while chopping in the woods. He ate his niealsoff an old box, while 
his seat was the floor. At the age of seventeen he left Mohawk and went to Maple- 
town where he worked for a Mr. Dostader, faring much better than at his first place. 
He was there but one year when he moved to Palatine. There he bought a small lot 
and built a house, working out by the day. He afterwards took a farm of new land, 
which he broke up and tilled. In 1S69 he moved to Palatine Bridge, where he kept a 
saloon, and for six months worked for the American E.xpress company. In 187l> he 
sold his saloon and went into the foundry business, which he leased of Colonel Johnson. 
He conducted this three years and has since kept teams for hire. He was elected con- 
stable in 1870. and for the last sixteen years has been deputy sheriff. For seven years 
he has held the office of deputy marshal. For fourteen years he has been overseer of 
the village of Palatine, and has been in the employ of the State as bank watch for four 
years. In 1861 he married Msiry Van Slyke of Mohawk, and they have had three 
children : Anna, wife of ^Villiam D. Hess of Canajoharie : David N., local editor on 
the Canajoharie Courier ; and George, who died January 2, 1890, aged twenty-one. 
Mr. Lohraan has been a student of medicine for animals for over thirty years, and is 
to-day the leading veterinary surgeon of this section. 

Lipe, Adam, Root, son of John L. and Elizabeth (Wormouth) Lipe, was born May 5, 
1845, in Onondaga county, where his parents lived a short time. He received bis 
education in the Canajoharie Academy, after the district school. He owns the paternal 
farm, consisting of 158 acres. He is an active Republican, having served as assessor. 
He married Maggie, daughter of Aaron and Sarah A. (Hubbs) Putnian of Johnstown. 
He has one child living. J. Earl, having lost two in infancy. Adam I., grandfather of 
Adam, was a son of John Lipe, one of the first pioneers of Root, who was killed by a 
horse. He served in the war against the Indians, and had one son and two daugh- 
ters. Adam I. served in the war of 1812, and was a Whig in politics. He mar- 
ried Catharine Rickard. and had three sons and four daughters. He died in 1874, aged 
seventy-eight. His wife died November 19, 1888, in her ninety-first year. John L., 
son of the above, was born October 6, 1817, and died December 28, 1883. His wife 
survives him, aged seventy-eight years. They had three children : Marlin, Adam, and 
Jeanette, wife of Charles S. Snow. The father of Mrs. Lipe, sr., served in the war of 
the revolution. 

Lindsay, Albert E., Root, son of Lorenzo Dow and Matilda (Moy) Lindsay, was 
born January 29, 1863, in Huntingville, Compton county, Quebec. He received a com- 
mon school education, supplemented by an academic course. At the age of eight years 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 87 

he went into a railroad ollire sniimiers to learn the bnsiness, attending school during 
tlie winter. In 1877 he coninienoed work for the Passu mpsic Co., remaining with them 
until ISStl; worked for tlie N. Y. & N. E. RR. Co. about four years in various capaci- 
ties. In June, I8S4, he came to Spraker's, where he has had charge of the West Shore 
railroad olVice ever since. He married, October S, 1885, Maggie, daughter of David 
and Margaret Quackenbush. They are members of the M. E. clinrch of Canajoharie, 
of which Mr. Lindsay has been one of the stewards since 1 880. The family is of Scotch 
origin. The grandfather, Arnold Lindsay, reared a family of five sons and five daugh- 
ters. The father of Albert E. was a contractor and builder, and died in July 1888. 
His wife survives him. They had four sons, of whom but two survive : Albert E. and 
Raymond B. 

Lyker, Dr. Aimer A., Root, son of John and Amanda (Van Derveer) Lyker, was born 
August L'G, 1854, in Root. He was reared on the farm, and received a common school 
education, supplemented by an academical course, and then taught three terms. At 
the age of twenty-one he began the study of medicine witji Dr. Shiblcy of Rural Grove 
and Dr. Albert Van Derveer, of Albany, and graduated from the Albany Medical Col- 
lege in 1879. He practiced with his preceptor. Dr. Shibley, but since 1880 has prac- 
ticed alone. He has held the ofiice of coroner three years, and in February, 1892, was 
elected supervisor. He is a Democrat and is active in politics. He was the promoter 
and originator of Rural Grove Driving Park, and bred the trotter " Cherry Blossom." 
Dr. Lyker is one ot the most public spirited men of the town. 

Lyker, Henry C, Root, Argusville p. o., was born in the town of Root September 6, 
1822, and is a son of Cornelius and Eve (Wilson) Lyker. He was educated in the dis- 
trict schools, and was a captain of militia in the late war. He has been a farmer all 
his life, owning two farms of 188 acres, on the line of Montgomery and Schoharie 
counties. lie has served as supervisor for eight years, and also held various minor 
offioes. He is an active Democrat in politics. September 22, 1848, he married Sarah 
M. Malick, daughter of Aaron and Anna (De Reemer) Malick. His wife died April 19, 
188G. She had been a member of the Lutheran church for thirty years, and he 
has been a member of the same church for over forty-five years. Mr. Lyker was the 
founder of the Argusville Silk Mills, established in 1889, makers of silk gloves. It is 
operated by J. II. Clark. John Lyker was born where he now resides, in the south 
part of Root, July 1, 1828, and is a son of Cornelius and Eve (Wilson) Lyker. The 
grandfather, Henry Lyker, whose father came from Holland and settled in New Jersey, 
was born in the last named state, and served in the war of 1812 as colonel. He came 
to Root in 1781 and entered one hundred acres where our subject now resides. He 
served as justice many years, and died aged over ninety years. His wife was Catharine 
Rutdcle, who reared two sons and five daughters, all of whom married and had families. 
Cornelius was born in Niskayuna, October 29, 1776, and came to Root with his father, 
adding to the homestead IGO acres, which he owned at the time of his death, August 3, 
1858. He served as commissioner, and sent a substitute to the war of 1812. He was 
a Democrat in politics. His five children were : Catherine, James, Henry C, Ann 
Eliza and John. The mother of Hemy C. and John Lyker was born in Minden. She 



88 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

was a daughter of James Wilson, who was a farmer. John was reared and lived all his 
ife where he now resides, with the exception of two years spent in Gloversville and four 
years in a hotel at Rural Grove. John served in the office of commissioner of the town 
and owns 150 acres of the original homestead. He is an influential man in the Demo- 
cratic party. He married, June 11, 1851, Miss Amanda Van Derveer, daughter of 
Joseph and Harriet (Allen) Van Derveer. They have three children: Dr. A. A.'Lyker, 
Villa R., wife of Herman Ehle, and Joanna, wife of C. V. Hall. Mrs. Lyker Ts a mem- 
ber of the Christian church which she has attended over forty years. 

Manzer, Edwin F., Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born April 13, 1859, at 
Westford, Otsego county. His early life was spent at home, securing an education 
at Draper's Academy, his early training being wholly mercantile, as his father 
(Sanford E.) was one of the leading merchants of Westford. At the age of twenty- 
one Edwin came to Hagaman's Mills, where he engaged with H. Pawling & Son as 
bookkeeper, rapidly rising to the position of superintendent. About the first of Feb- 
ruary, 1892, he assumed control of the largest general store in Hagaman's Mills, where 
in the short time he has conducted it he has built up a fine trade. September 20, 1882, 
he married Anna E. Collins, daughter of Ira and Hannah (Knapp) Collins. Mr. Man- 
zer's ancestry is German. 

Munsell, William J., Amsterdam, was born at Port Jackson, June 13, 1840, and was 
educated in the common schools and Amsterdam Academy. At an early age he learned 
the trade of carpenter and joiner with his father. The family have followed it for 
four generations. William J. began contracting on his own account in 1878, but pre- 
viously was a foreman for Stephen Sanford for fourteen years. He married, June 13, 
1866, Prudence Mathews of Johnstown, but she died in the year 1879. In November, 
1881, he married Emma Brice of this city; they have five children, four sons and one 
daughter: Lizzie, Stephen Sanford, William J., jr., Eugene and Ransom. Mr. Mun- 
cell's father (Chauncey) was born in the town of Florida in 1814; he married Jane E. 
French of his native town ; she was a daughter of John French, and they had four 
children, two sons and two daughters: Susan May, William J., Meriam and John. Her 
father was sheriff of Montgomery county one full term before the county was divided. 
Mr. Munsell enlisted in Company C, One Hundred and Fifty-Third New York State 
Volunteers, and was honorably discharged at the close of the war as orderly sergeant; 
his brothers and sisters are dead. 

Messinger, Stephen, Amsterdam, was born in Saratoga cotmty January 4, 1825, and 
was educated in the public schools and has had a variety of occupations. He followed 
monumental work about thirty years but since 1887 he has been a contractor for side- 
walks and buildmg stone. Mr. Messinger has been president of the board of edu- 
cation and is now a member of that board ; he is a member of Artisan Lodge, No. 84, 
F. & A. M., and also its treasurer. He came to Amsterdam in 1851, and on the 14th 
of December, 1859, he married Emehne, eighth daughter of Josiah and Mary Goodrich, 
of Granville, Washington county. They have two children : Charles G. (who married 
Emma Playford ; they have two sons, C. Raymond and Ford S.) ; and Emma E., who 
married Smith G. More of St. Lawrence county, and they now reside in North 
Dakota. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 89 

Major, Waller M., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Pertli, May 9, 1834. In early 
life he was a farmer, afterwards sold agricultural implements, and also was a real 
estate operator. He came to Amsterdam about 1867. In 1865 he married Ruth 
A. Shuler of this county ; she died July 9, 1888, mourned by the bereaved hus- 
band and a host of friends. His father, John, was born in Galway in 1791, and 
married Jane Maxwell of Charlton. They had twelve children, eight sons and four 
daughters: John, Ursula, David, Mary A., Ebenezer, Margaret, Jennie E., Walter M., 
No. 1, who died, Walter M., No. 2, Joseph, William J. and Hugh B. Mr. Major rep- 
resented the town of Perth in the Fulton county board of supervisors in 1861-62. 

Morris, John F., Amsterdam, was born August 31, 1839, in Amsterdam, and was 
educated in the pubHc schools of the city. He is associated with A. V. Morris & Sons, 
taking charge of that part of the business conducted at Fort Johnson, but resides in 
Amsterdam. On September 15, 1864, he married Mary E., oldest daughter of John D. 
and Catherine (Livermore) Serviss of Amsterdam ; they have two daughters : Kittie 
L., and Mary S., who resides at home with her parents. Kittie L. married P. Henry 
Sraeallie of this city, and has two children, John Morris and Marion Elvira. 

Morphy, Thomas, Amsterdam, was born on the loth of June, 1836, in Sussex county, 
England, and with his parents came to the United States in 1850, locating at Amster- 
dam, where he was educated in the public schools and Johnstown Academy. For two 
years he was in the grocery business in Port Jackson, now the fifth ward. The Morphy 
brothers were the first to build a public storehouse in this city in the years 1880-'81, 
and have conducted a large flour, feed and grain business under the firm name of Mor- 
phy Bros. On the 21st of December, 1859, he married Maria L., second daughter of 
Cornelius and Rebecca (Pettingell) Conover. They have one daughter Katie C, who 
married Frederick Davey of Amsterdam. 

Miller, James A., Amsterdam, was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and when a child 
came with his parents to America and lived in New York. In a short time his parents 
moved to Galway, where they purchased a farm. In 1852 Mr. Miller came to Amster- 
dam and became a member of the firm of Kellogg & Miller, and a few years later married 
Elizabeth F. Clark of New Bedford, Mass. They had three children : Lizzie, who died 
at the age of five; and two now living — Kate, who married George M. Holbrook of 
Amsterdam ; and John C, who married Sarah R. Nelson. They have one son and one 
daughter, Charles Raymond and Minerva Gladys. Mr. Miller is president of the First 
National bank, vice-president of the board of trade, director in the Gas company and 
an elder in the Second Presbyterian church. 

MoClary, Major William, Amsterdam, was born in Broadalbin June 23, 1810; he was 
educated in the public schools of his day ; in early life he was a farmer but afterwards 
learned the mason's trade and for many years was a contractor on public works, and 
also private buildings. He came to Amsterdam in the year 1827 and June 20, 1837, he 
married Martha, daughter of Alexander Adams of the same place. The ceremony was 
performed by the Rev. Mr. Sears. They had seven children : Sarah, died in infancy ; 
Daniel F. and Jane M. died after they reached maturity ; four survive : Wilham, jr., 



90 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

who married Annie Sherricker of Oswego ; John and Helen (twins), and Martha. John, 
Ellen and Martha reside at home. Mr. McClary's father, William, was born in North 
Carolina, and when a young man came with his mother north ; he married Bessie Ken- 
nedy, by whom he had four sons and two daughters. His father's brother, Samuel, 
was in the war of 1812 and his mother's brother, Robert, was also in the war of 1812. 
Mr. McCIary was elected to the legislature in 1852 and was superintendent of the canal 
from 1842 until 1846 inclusive. In politics he is a Democrat ; his first vote was cast 
for General Jackson. 

Miller, John C, Amsterdam, was born in Glasgow, September 27, 1828, and came 
with his parents to this country when he was only two years old. They located in 
West Galway in the town of Perth, and he was educated in the public schools and in 
early life was a farmer. In the spring of 1853 he became a manufacturer in Amster- 
dam, but sold out in 1884. He then became a contractor of street pavements and 
sewers. On the 9th of May, 1800, he married Louisa M., oldest daughter of Isaac and 
Esther Jackson of this city ; Mrs. Miller died July 24, 1877. They have two daugh- 
ters : Esther and Louisa J. (who married Frank E. Waldron and they have three children, 
John M., Hick.s B. and Louisa M.) 

McCurtie. William, Amsterdam, was born on the ISth of May, 1826, in Glenville, 
Schenectady county, and was educated there and learned the carpenter's trade. In 
1853 he went to Illinois and was three years in Chicago and seven years in Centralia, 
from which place he enlisted in Company A, First Illinois Light Artillery. The date 
was March 1, 1862, and he was honorably discharged in the state of Mississippi on ac- 
count of sickness. On the 10th of December, 1850, he married Sarah A., third daugh- 
ter of Nicholas and Jennie Van Slyck of his native county. They have three children, 
one son and two daughters. One daughter, Alice, died on the 7th of November, 1874. 
Frank, who married Louisa Talmage of Amsterdam, and Jennie, who resides with her 
parents. Mr. McCurtie's grandfather on his mother's side (Aaron Stephens) was quar- 
termaster in the war of 1812 and one of his great-grandfathers was a soldier of the 
revolutionary war. Mr. McCurtie is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. 

Marshall, James E , Amsterdam, Fort Johnson p. o., was born in county Tyrone, Ire- 
land, May 10, 1857, and is a son of Samuel and Margaret (Hempton) Marshall. His 
parents came to this country the same year of his birth, and settled in the town of Perth, 
where they remained three years, then came into the town of Amsterdam, and the 
second year moved on the J. McKay farm, but moved thence to the George Clark farm. 
James was sent to the common school, where he received a start for an education; 
finishing his course behind the desk in his own store. When he was eleven years old 
he hired out to work for Darwin Schuler for $5 a month, and followed farming in this 
way until he was nineteen, when his father took a farm, and James helped him two 
years ; after this he went to Michigan and engaged in railroading for eight months. 
During that time he married Melvina Wright, and after his marriage (December 30, 
1879) he came back to this county and the next year went into gardening, which he 
followed until 1881. He then bought out the general store of M. M. Robb at Fort 
Jobason, which he has conducted in so successful a manner that the business has in- 



Family sketches, 91 

creased fivefold what it was when he bciipht it. He has leased the «djoinirg building for 
a flour and feed store, and is the postmaster at Fort Johnson, but this is the only public 
office he thinks he will aspire to. Ho is the father of one child, Clarence B., born April 
17, 1881. Samuel Marshall, his father, died June 15, 1890, fifty-one years of age. 
John Marshall was married to Mary Burrows, daughter of Francis Burrows of Sche- 
nectady, May 14, 1891. He has always been engaged in gardening until the fall of 
1891 when he rented the market at Fort Johnson of his brother, which he has since 
successfully conducted. 

McDougall, Daniel, Florida, one of seven children of James and Mary (Campbell) 
McDougall, was born October G, 1844, on the farm where he now lives. The others of 
the family were Lawrence, Helen M., Isabella fall deceased), John C, who resides at 
Oil City, Pa. ; Elizabeth D., widow of Alfred Millmine, and George, living at Burton- 
ville. James, the father, was born April 3, 1806, in Princetown, and Mary, his wife, was 
born in 1809. John, the grandfather, was born in Scotland, and settled in Princetown, 
where died. Daniel McDougall married on November 13, 1872. Margaret, one of three 
children of Hugh and Clara (Montgomery) Stewart of Florida, the others being Addie 
(Mrs. J. S. Young of Chicago), and Henry Jackson (deceased). John Stewart, her 
grandfather, was born in Florida, his wife being Margaret Ross. Her great-grandfather, 
Stewart was born in Scotland. Mr. and Mrs. McDougall have three children : Hugh 
Campbell, Mary Adaline, and Donald Raymond. 

Miller, Jonas, Minden, was born in Minden, December 4, 1821. His grandfather 
Conrad Miller, had a family of nine children: Peter, C^onrad, Daniel, Henry, John, 
George, Christiana, who married George Snyder; Mary, who married Nicholas House; 
and Nancy, who married John Woltz. Henry of the above family was born in Min- 
den, where he died December 3, 1833. He married Elizabeth, daughter of Henry 
Zoller, and they had six children : Henry, who died in Danube; Cornelius, who was 
killed by accident when twenty years of age in Minden ; Nancy and Mary, both died 
young; Solomon, who resides in St. Johnsville; and Jonas. Henry was a blacksmith 
by trade and carried on a shop for many years on the Dutchtown road, near the resi- 
dence of the late Solomon Devendorf. Jonas, our subject, received only a common 
school education, and on the death of his father the family was left in straitened 
circumstances. Mr. Miller engaged iu farming, which he has always followed, and he 
now owns one of the best farms in the town of Minden comprising 140 acres. In 
politics a Republican, he has never held any political office. He married Janet Mc- 
Kenzie, and they had four children, viz : Cornelius, who died aged twelve ; Irving, 
who resides in Palatine ; Alton, who resides in Minden ; and Helen, wife of Otto 
Fox, assistant cashier of St. Johnsville National Bank. 

Martin, Charles, Minden, was born at Fort Plain, July 27, 1850. His father 
(Charles) was a native of Germany, emigrating to America, where he located at 
Fort Plain. He was a mason by trade, and enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifty- 
Third Regiment of New York Volunteers. He received a furlough on account of 
sickness and was returning to his regiment in 1864, when he had a relapse, and 
died at Albany, in his thirty-ninth year. He married Charlotte Hillabrandt, and 



92 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

they had seven children : Carrie, Charles, William, who died aged four years ; Henry 
G., the well known druggist at Fort Plain, died in that village, leaving a widow 
and one child (named Harvey) ; John and Fred (both residents of Fort Plain) ; and 
Lewis, who died at the age of fourteen years. Charles, the oldest son of the above 
family, received only a common school education. In his early life he worked at farm- 
ing, but was for ten years employed at the Fort Plain Spring and Axle Works. He 
moved on his present farm in 1882. He married Elizabeth, daughter of the late Peter 
G. Bush, and they have four children : Katie C, George A., Jennie B., and Charles. 

Moyer, Abram H., Minden, was born May 22, 1796, at Minden, and married Eliza- 
beth, daughter of Abraham Arndt of Minden, who was born February 5, 1796, in the 
above town. Abram H. died July 21, 1878, and Elizabeth, his wife, died February 23, 
1852. They had eight children, of whom Mary Ann, the oldest, was born December 
31, 1815, and married John Hesler, February 19, 1840. They had three children : 
Mary M., who married John Johnson of Fonda; Lizzie, who died at Fonda in 1858; 
and Abram, who died at Minden in 1853. John Hesler died February 10, 1881, and 
Mary Ann, his wife, died January 1, 1892, at Fonda. Eliza Ann, second child of Abram 
H. Moyer, was born February 6, 1818, and died October 15, 1844. Lucinda, the third 
child, was born September 12, 1820, and June 23, 1853, married John Jarvis; they 
had one daughter, Libbie, who married Edw. Hill, of Chicage. John Jarvis died at 
Chicago March 17, 1875. Byancy, the fourth child, was born September 12, 1823, in 
Minden, and married John Shawl of Columbia, June 23, 1852. She died December 23, 
1856. John Shawl died June 19, 1888. Sylvester, fifth child, was born August 3, 
1826, and married Irena Gramps of Stone Arabia, on August 11, 1851, and they had 
two children : Heley, who married Viola Flanders of Oppenheim, and Mary, who 
married Edgar Keesler of Frey's Bush. Simeon, sixth child, was born July 22, 1828, 
and married Lanie Eygabroad of Minden, December 27, 1849 ; Lanie, his wife, died 
July 7, 1872, and he married second, Isadore Ball of Michigan. Almina, seventh child, 
was born August 15, 1831, and married James Miller of Minden ; they had two children : 
Adda, who married William Caulkins of Amsterdam, and Rufus, who married 
Jennie Cohn of New York; they are all living at Yonkers. James Miller died Decem- 
ber 18, 1879, at Amsterdam. Marcy, the eighth child of Abram Moyer, was born in 
Minden November 6, 1834 ; he married Catherine Cornelius of Minden, July 18, 1856, 
(who died January 21, 1872), and they had five children : Samarie E., was born March 
28, 1856, and married Charles Sanders of Minden, October 26, 1877; she died Decem- 
ber 20, 1880. Minnie K. was born January 13, 1860, and married Edwin Moyer in 
1878, at Minden. Abram E. was born April 21, 1862, and died January 13, 1873, at 
Minden. Gertrude M. was born August 21, 1S64. Edward O. was born March 21, 
1871. Marcy married for his second wife Josephine Cornelius, and they have one 
daughter, Nettie B., who was born May 6, 1880, in Minden. 

Mosher, Stafford, Minden, was born in Canajoharie January 20, 1846, and is the only 
son of E. C. and Ann M. (StalFord) Mosher. His education was acquired at the public 
schools of the town and the academy. He engaged in mercantile business in the hard- 
ware store of S. H. Miller & Co. of Canajoharie, where he remained five years. He then 
learned the trade of carriage maker with his father, and was employed with him till 1874. 



Family sketches. 93 

The next year he was partner in the grocery store of Mosher & Devendorf at Canajo- 
harie. His father's trade having increased so as to require his attention, he left the 
grocery to accept a position of book-keeper with him, but owing to an accident he was 
obliged to give up his position. He was for the next nine years hbrarian of the State 
senate, and on his retirement from that office became a clerk in the Canajoharie National 
Bank, where he remained until the organization of the Farmers' & Merchants' Bank of 
Fort Plain, where he was made cashier, a position which lie now fills. A Republican 
in politics, he was supervisor for the town of Canajoharie two years. He married 
Celestia J., daughter of Samuel Vunk of Charleston. 

Moyer, Henry I., Minden, was born in Minden January 31, 1785, and married July 
24, 1808, Hannah Walrath, who was born May 15, 1788. Their children were Charles, 
born January 29, 1810, died in the west; Henry H., born March 4, 1814, died in Min- 
den; Peter, born May 28, 1815, died in Minden ; Sally, born January 8, 1818; died in 
Minden; Moses, born December 18, 1819, died young ; David, born March 26, 1823. 
Jacob H. was connected with the State militia, and held the ofSce of pay master. 
Jacob H., son of Henry I., was born in Minden December 4, 1811, and married Janu- 
ary 10, 1850, Margaret, daughter of George U. Bauder. Their only child was J. Wesley. 
Mrs. Moyer died July 10, 1862. Jacob H. married for his second wife Mary B,, daugh- 
ter of Henry S. Diefendorf. He died January 25, 1888. J. Wesley Moyer was born 
April 29, 1850, and married February 4, 1880, AnnaC, daughter of Chauncey L. Moyer. 
They have four children: Jacob H., Chauncey L., Flora D., and Mary B. 

Marcellus, Abram, Amsterdam, was born at Cranesville, Montgomeiy county, on 
the 1st of January, 1821, and was educated in the common school and Amsterdam 
Academy. In early life he was a wood-worker and lived for nine j^ears in Illinois ; he 
then returned to Amsterdam and manufactured reapers and mowers for about ten years. 
In 1860 he went into the knit goods business in company with the late John McFarlan, 
under the firm name of Marcellus & McFarlan, which continued about twenty-three 
years, when Mr. Marcellus retired from business and now lives in his fine residence in 
the west end of the city. On the 30th of June, 1865, he married Henrietta ,Steadwell 
of the town of Florida. They have six children, three sons and three daughters. 
Louise S., who married Dr. E. E. Reynolds of this city ; Agnes V., who married Dr. 
William Liddle of Fonda ; and Katie, who died March 14, 1878 ; Abrara M., Henry A., 
and Frederick S., who resides at home. Mr. Marcellus's father, Ahashuerus, was born 
in the town of Amsterdam and married Mary, daughter of Gabriel Manny of this town. 
They had eleven children. Mrs. Marcellus's father, Albert Steadwell, was born in 
Dutchess county and married Hannah Hayes of his native county. They had ten 
children and came to the town ot Florida at an early day. The ancestry of the family 
is Dutch, French and English. 

Miller, J. Jay, M. D., Amsterdam, was born on the 3d of October, 1834, in the town 
of Lansing, Tompkins county, and was educated in the public schools and Central Col- 
lege of this state. He was a minister of the Christian denomination eighteen years, 
and afterwards studied medicine and graduated from Albany Medical College in the year 
1871. In the early part of the year 1887 he came to Amsterdam. He was married 



94 filSTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

twice, first to Catherine De Conders of Groton, Tompkins county. Tliey hsd one son, 
William Tyler, who is a skilled physician at Cobleskill, and S. Pearl, an adopted daughter, 
who is being educated at Amsterdam Academy. She resides at home. For his sec- 
ond wife he married Carriebel Bullard of Sherborn, Mass. She is quite talented in 
vocal and instrumental music. 

Miller, Abram B., Canajoharie, was born in the town of Canajoharie on the 29th of 
December, 1834, and is a son of Adam S. and Hannah Coons Miller. His mother was 
born in Rensselaer county and his father in Columbia county. The latter's grandfather 
(John Miller) came from Germany and settled in Columbia county. Adam Miller, 
Abrara's father, came to this county about 1831 and settled on the farm now owned by 
the family. He is still livmg at the age of ninety-three years. Mr. Miller was reared 
on the farm, and educated at the common schools and at Charlotteville and Ames Acad- 
emy. For thirty years he was a teacher; he was at Fultonville six years and taught 
at St. Johnsville, Palatine Bridge, Buel and Ames for twelve winters. He was com- 
missioner one term, and owned a farm m Glen eight years ; he is a civil engineer, and 
also a veterinary surgeon, registered. He owns a fine farm at Ames village, and is a 
Republican and an active worker for his party. He has been commissioner of high- 
ways and justice of the peace. On the 11th of January, 1859, he married Anna E., 
daughter of AIvy Bowman, among the first settlers of the county. They have four 
children: Josephine, wife of William Bellman; Minnie, wife of Walter Hilts; John, 
who married Nora Wessells; and Horace. 

Merselis, Daniel W., Canajoharie, was born in Knox, Albany county, October 9, 1836, 
and is a son of Gerardus G. and Catharine (Weidman) Merselis. The grandfather of 
our subject, Gerrit N. Merselis, was a native of this country, born in 1767, and always 
a resident of Albany county. He married, November 20, 1799, Eve, daughter of Henry 
Ball, and they had four children : Gerardus Groesback, Peter, Margaret, Maria E. 
Gerritt M. died January 16, 1832, and his wife. Eve, died March 14, 1810. Gerardus 
G., the oldest son, was born in Albany county, January 12, 1801, and always lived 
there, ge married, November 8, 1827, Catharine, daughter of Felix Weidman of 
Berne, Albany county, and they had five children : Elizabeth, wife of Jacob M. Hoch- 
strasser of Berne; Catharine, who died July 12, 18G4, aged thirty-one years; AnnaM., 
wife of George W. Quackenbush of Barnyville, Schoharie county : Lois J., wife of 
Avery K. Slade, a farmer of Berne, and Daniel. The early life of the last named was 
spent in Albany county. He was educated at the select school at Berneville, and after 
leaving school assisted his father on the farm until his marriage, which occurred Octo- 
ber 8, 1862, his wife being Elizabeth, daughter of John M. and Orpha (Dennison) 
Wood of Albany county. His father was from Dutchess county, and her ancestors 
came from Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs. Merselis have had eight children : Orpha D., 
born July 26, 18G3, wife of Charles H. Groff of Minden ; Willie G., born December 17, 
1864, a miller of Nebraska; Catharine, who died. May 31, 1874, aged seven years; 
Mary E., born Octobers, 1869, wife of James Shults; Arthur D., born March 16. 1874; 
Dewey W., born March 15, 1878; Reua S., born May 27, 1S79, and Antoinnette V., 
born February 7, 1882. In the spring of 1864 Mr. Merselis came to this town, and in 



FAMILY .SKETCHES. 95 

partnership with Luke Slade bought the grist-mill atWatervilleand the farm of twenty - 
seven acres which Mr. Marselis now conducts. In 1866 Mr Slade sold his interest to 
Eugene Wood, brother of Mrs. Merselis, which partnership continued till 1869, when 
he sold out and is now in Austin, Minn. Mrs. Merselis's father makes his home with 
them, and is in his eighty-second year. 

Lepper, Jacob, Amsterdam, Tribes Hill p. o., was born one mile north of Fort John- 
son in the town of Amsterdam, November 23, 1825, and is a son of Joseph and Rebecca 
(Fairchild) Lepper. The earliest ancestor to whom our subject can trace was his 
grandfather, Jacob Lepper, who came to this country previous to the War of the Rev- 
olution from Germany, and located in New York. He remained there one and one- 
half years, working at the blacksmith's trade, but before the war came to this county 
(then Tryon county) and built a blacksmith shop, grist-mill, saw-mill and store, which 
were burned by the tories and Indians, who also robbed him of a large sum of money. 
He married Mary Hook in 1785, and they were the parents of ten children, of whom 
Joseph was the third, born January 24, 1789. His first wife was Rebecca Fairchild, by 
whom he was the father of six children, four now living: Maria, now Mrs. Setli Noble 
of Illinois ; Angelica, now Mrs. Jacob Shuler of Syracuse ; Sally, now Mrs. Smith 
Hall of Illinois, and Jacob, our subject. His second wife was Hannah Lepper, by 
whom he had six children, two are living: Rebecca, now Mrs. Ashley Kellogg of Il- 
linois, and Margaret, now Mrs. Benjamin Levy of Illinois. Jacob spent his early life 
on the farm, assisting his father and attending the district school, until his marriage, 
Decembers, 1846, to Margaret Hanson, daughter of Nicholas and Hannah (Putnam) 
Hanson of Amsterdam. He worked the old homestead farm for three years, then came 
to present locality where he remained twenty-six years. His house, cider-mill and barn 
were burned out and he then went to Tribes Hill for seventeen months, and came to 
his present residence in 1874. They have three children living : David of Springfield, 
111.; Alida B. of Florida; Mary J., now Mrs. Edward F. Clark of Albany. Their 
mother lives at the age of seventy-one years. Mr. Lepper was a soldier in the civil 
war, enlisted February 28, 1862, in the Thirty-second Regiment New York Volunteers, 
was wounded in June, 1862, at Chancellorsville, and discharged July 25, the same year. 
Remained at home until September 15, when he joined the Tenth New York Volunteer 
Cavalry. He saw service in many exciting engagements, among them Fredericksburg, 
Petersburg, the Wilderness and Gettysburg, where he was again wounded. He bears 
scars of his loyalty to his country, and now lives quietly at home, conducts a snjall 
place of six acres, leasing his farm of sixty-six acres. In regard to his soldier history, 
very few can be found who volunteeied twice in one year without a dollar of bounty. 
He has dearly earned the pension he now receives of $12 a month. 

Milmine, Alfred J., Florida, one of two children of William M. and Emeline (Wiltsie) 
Milmine, the other being Lettie A. (Mrs. Geroe Kline), was born in Florida February 
1, 1858. William M. Milmine, the father, was born in the town of Florida March 25, 
1820. Emeline (Wiltsie) Milmine, the mother, was one of the ten children of John 
and Maria (Dorn) Wiltsie of Duanesburg. James Milmine, the grandfather, was born 
in Duanesburg, his wife being Marie Van Vecbten. He came to Florida in childhood 



96 HISTORY OF MONTaOMERY COUNTY. 

and lived and died here. John Milmine, the great-grandfather of Alfred J., was born 
in Scotland, but came to this country in early life and bought the property on which 
Alfred J. and his father now live. 

MoMartin, Duncan, Hagaman's Mills, was born in Amsterdam in the house now the 
residence of his family, November 1, 1815, and is a son of Finley and Henrietta (Bell) 
McMartin, who came to this country from Perthshire, Scotland, in 1809. Duncan, the 
subject of our sketch, was one of a family of fourteen children, one of whom, Thomas 
McMartin (now dead), was professor of pathology in the medical college of St. Louis. 
Only two of the fourteen are now living: John McMartin, born May 6, 1809, in Scot, 
land, and Elizabeth, now Mrs. Ayres of Denver, Col., born February 8, 1817. The 
early life of Duncan was spent on the farm and his education was what he could obtain 
in the public schools of the town. July 3, 18.50, he married Susan J. Helling, widow 
of John Wenban and daughter of Henry and Julia (Downes) Helling. To them were 
born six children, three of whom have passed away, viz.: Henrietta, died September 
29, 1860; Henrietta, second, died May 6, 1864; Julia Addie, died September 7, 1864. 
Two of the survivors, Isabelle K. and Henrietta B., are living at the old homestead, 
and Mamie (Mrs. S. Davies) is living in Buffalo. Duncan, their father, died September 
12, 1890. Mrs. McMartin still lives on the old homestead with her brother John and 
her two children and bears her sixty-six years with pride when she thinks of her an- 
cestral name. 

Mclntyre, Peter C, Amsterdam, Tribes Hill p. o., was born in Argyleshire, Scotland, 
September 18, 1819, and is a son of James and Anne ( Campbell ) Mclntyre. James 
(his father) was born in Westchester county in 1785 and went to Scotland in 1806 to 
settle up his father's estate, he being the oldest son of five children. He married and 
stayed there sixteen years, then returned to this country and settled in Johnstown, 
then in Montgomery county. He was the father of seven children, five of whom are 
living: James of Johnstown ; Ewen, an eminent druggist of New York; Archibald, a 
commission merchant of Albany; Martin, a druggist at Fonda; and Peter C. (our sub- 
ject), who was educated at Johnstown Academy under Thomas Frothingham. He 
spent a short time in a dry goods store at Johnstown, then went on the farm with his 
father where he remained until May 26, 1846. He married Anne M. Bearcroft, daugh- 
ter of James and Jane (Potter) Bearcroft ; they have had three sons, one of whom 
died when three years old. James A. was born March 10, 1847 ; Peter C. of Albany, 
born June 1, 1855. Mrs. Mclntyre still lives to comfort her children, being now sixty- 
nine years of age. Mr. Mclntyre conducted a hotel in Schenectady and also in Johns- 
town, each one year. He then bought the Franklin House in Johnstown which he con- 
ducted fifteen years with'great success. In 18G5 he sold out the hotel and went into 
partnership in a grocery at Albanj' for one year; then was in the glove manufacture 
one year, and in 1869 he bought a farm in Orange county, Va., where he remained six 
years, then came back to this county. His son, James A., was married March 30, 1869, 
to Evan Lingenfelter, and they are the parents of three children : Maggie, John S. and 
William. They are industrious farmers, and Mr. Mclntyre looks back with pride on 
his ancestral name, his father being chief of the clan of Mclntyres of Glencoe, and he 
himself has a commission as captain, signed by Governor Morgan. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. «7 

Mount, Elijah, Canajohane, was born in Root, near MspletoTrn, Jnly 18, ]?]6, ard is 
a son of Mathias and Elizabeth (Gulick) Mount. Elijah, grandfather of our fuljf ct, a 
native of New Jersey, came to this county in 1799, locating in Glen, 'where he lived 
until his death. His first wife was Lydia Barclay, by whom he had four children: 
David, Mathias, Susan and Lydia. His second wife was a daughter of Lewis Mount 
of Glen. By her he had four children : Elijah, Humphrey, John and Hannah. The 
second son of his first wife, Mathias, was the father of Elijah, and was born in New 
Jersey, July 19, 1792. making him seven years old when his parents came to this county. 
He was drafted for the war of 1812, but before being ordered to the field the war 
closed. In 1814 he married Elizabeth Gulick, whose father came from Germany and 
located in Broadalbin. By his first marriage he had one child, Elijah, our subject. His 
second marriage was with Elizabeth Mount, daughter of Thomas Mount of Shaion, and 
they had five children, only two of them reaching adult age — Mary and Rebecca. 
When Elijah was about five years of age his father taoved to Sharon, at which place 
Elijah married, September 28, 1837, Mercy Emiletta, daughter of David and Mercy 
(Cox) Gordon. They had nine children, seven of whom are living: Mary J., wife of 
John Hatmaker of Gloversville ; Ment E. of Jackson, Mich.; Alvin G., who conducts 
the farm ; Lydia, wife of Rev. Joseph Walroth of Chicago; Mathias W. of Glovers- 
ville ; George of Jackson, Mich.; and Ida, wife of Sanford White of Canajoharie. The 
oldest son, L. Winne, was a volunteer in the 116th N. Y. Regiment, was wounded 
taken prisoner, and died in a rebel prison in 18G4. When Elijah was twenty eight, his 
father bought the farm of 226 acres, and at his death in 1SG3 it was divided, Elijah 
now having 150 acres The latter has held offices of honor and trust in his town for 
several years, and is deacon in the Baptist church at Ames. Mrs. Mount died in May, 
1877, aged sixty years. 

McFee, James Adelmer, was born in Cherry Valley, March 13, 1850. His father 
was Norman McFee, a grandson of Alexander McFee, who came from Scotland before 
the Revolution and settled in what is now Otsego county. Mr. McFee lias spent sev- 
eral years teaching the public schools of Sprout Brook, Buel, Ames, Mapletown and 
other places. He studied at the Cherry Valley Academy and at Cazenovia Semi- 
nary, from which he graduated in 1875, completing two full terms — the academic and 
the Latin scientific. He studied theology two years, and in 1877 was admitted on trial 
into the Northern New York Conference, and stationed at New Bremen, Lewis county. 
Health failing, he was obliged to resign his appointment, and has never since taken a 
regular charge, but continues to preach occasionally as a local elder. Since 1881 he 
has lived on a farm pleasantly located near the village of Ames, engaged in general 
farming, stock breeding and fruit culture, and occasionally has a call to do surveying. 
In politics Mr. McFee is a Prohibitionist, but liberal toward all who have an interest in 
the welfare of our common country. In 1875 he married Frankie, youngest daughter 
of the late Benjamin Wendell of Minden, and sister of Judge J. D. Wendell of Fort 
Plain. They have no children. 

Mclntyre, Martin, Mohawk, Fonda, p. o., son of James and Ann (Campbell) Moln- 
tyre, was born in Johnstown May 5, 1835. He received his education at Kingsboro 



98 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and Johnstown academies, and studied pharmacy with his brother Ewen of New York, 
who was president of the New York College of Pharmacy, having held that office for 
fourteen years. Mr. Mclntyre opened a drug store in Fonda in 1874 and carries on the 
business at the present time. He married Elizabeth Cherry. He is a member of the 
A. 0. U. W., N. Y. S. P. A., and of the Reformed Church. His wife is an Episcopal- 
ian. They have a very beautiful residence which is noted for its flowers and other 
marks of rural taste. 

Meyer, Dr. George L., Palatine, was born in Palatine, April 7, 1863, a son of John 
G. and Mary E. (Snyder) Meyer, natives of Germany. His grandfather was Frederick 
Meyer, whose father was also named Frederick, and was a physician in Germany. 
Frederick, junior, married Mary Sophia Hvitter, who bore him five sons and three 
daughters. John G. Meyer was born in 1819. When a young man he came to Pala- 
tine where he has since resided. He is a blacksmith and wagonmaker and for many 
years kept a shop at Stone Arabia. He had three sons and five daughters; George L.. 
was the youngest of the family. Mrs. John G. Meyer died July 29, 1882. Dr. 
G. L. Meyer was educated at the common school and the Union Free School at Pala- 
tine Bridge. At eighteen he began teaching school which he continued for three years, 
studying medicine at the same time with Dr. S. A. Wessels of Ganajoharie. At the age 
of twenty-one he entered the medical department of Michigan University, graduating in 
1887. In July, 1887, he began practice at Stone Arabia, where he has since been very 
successful. In 1889 he married Ada, daughter of Abner and Adelia (Williamson) 
Yauney of Ephratah. Abner Yauney was born January 20, 1842, and married in 1867, 
and had two children. His wife died November 10, 1870. Abner's father was James 
Yauney, born in September, 1800, in Johnstown, and married Hannah, daughter of 
Daniel Bedford, who was born in 1776 in England, and settled in Dutchess county 
where he died in 1820. James Yauney and wife had eight sons and one daughter 
He was a member of assembly in 1839, and died at Ephratah in 1888. 

Mowrey, Michael W., Palatine, was born in Amsterdam, October 10, 1852. His 
father was Pliny Mowrey, and his grandfather Ezekiel Mowrey. The latter, a native 
of Massachusetts, came to Johnstown at an early day and settled on a small piece of 
land. He had four sons and two daughters. After his death his widow lived with 
Pliny until her death in 1866. Pliny Mowrey was born in Johnstown, and married 
Mary Wert, by whom he had five sons, four of whom are living. He was a carpenter, 
and spent his married life at Tribes Hill, where he died in 1863. His widow married 
Gilbert Palmateer, a farmer of Ephratah. Michael W. Mowrey attended the common 
school until eight years of age, when he assisted in supporting the family by working 
on the farm. He followed farming until 1874, when he married Nancy A., a daughter 
of John Y. Wood. They have had the following children : Arthur J., Elmer V., 
Edith M., Viola E. and Edna, all living. In 1874 Mr. Mowrey began the manufacture 
of straw board at Garoga, but in 1887 the business was moved to Wagner's Hollow, and 
has since been carried on there. The firm, which is Mowrey & Wood, employs eight 
men and makes 200 tons yearly. They also have a saw-mill and cuts 200,000 feet an- 
nually. Mr. Mowrey is a Republican, and a member of Stone Arabia Grange No. 690. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 99 

McDuffee, Ellsworth, Charleston, was born in Charleston, March 22, 1862, being one 
ot eight children of Calvin and ilary E. (Dunlap) Mc Duffee ; the others being Adell, 
Nelson, Daniel, Walter, May, Lulu (Mrs. William Tiffany) and Mercy. Calvin (the 
father) was one of seven children of Daniel McDuffee of Charleston, and married Mary, 
a daughter of Joseph and (Patterson) Dunlap of the same town. Ellsworth McDuffee 
married, February 22, 1861, Lulu Snyder of Charleston, one of two children of John 
and Roba (Scott) Snyder, the other being Caroline (Mrs. James Wood), who is dead. 
Mr. McDullee has lived in Charleston about twenty years. He is a merchant at 
Charleston Four Corners, also postmaster and town clerk. 

Moyer, Charles, Root, son of John and Marj' H. (Lasher) Moyer, was born June 16, 
1852, where he now resides. His grandfather was John Moyer, born in Mohawk and 
died in Root in 1863, aged eighty-six years. His wife was Elizabeth Magley, by whom 
he had three sons and five daughters. John, father of Charles, was born in Root, where 
he died, February 8, 1855, and at his death one-half of the farm of 120 acres fell to the lot 
of Charles, who later bought the other half. His wife died in August, 18G9. She had 
two sons by her first husband, of whom Charles is the only one living. She married, 
second, Peter Moyer, and they had one son, Wilson. She was a daughter of Jacob 
and Elizabeth (Bellinger) Lasher. Charles Moyer moved with his mother at the age of 
four years to Canajoharie, where he lived until her death. He received his education 
in the Canajoharie and district schools, and attended Whitestown Seminary for two 
years, having taught school seventeen terms, working at farming during the summer 
time. In politics he is a Democrat, and is a member of Fultonville Lodge, F. & A. M. 
On March 28, 1877, he married Maggie Lathers, who was born in Root, and is a daugh- 
ter of John H. and Elizabeth (McLaughlin) Lathers of Mohawk. They have two chil- 
dren, Ida M. and Emery F. 

Nestle Family, The. — George M. was born in Palatine, June 17, 1812, and on Jan- 
uary 15, 1835, he married Margaret Timmerman; they had six children, all of whom 
were born in Minden. They were as follows: David G., born December 5, 1835, died 
in Minden ; Jennie, born March 2, 1837, married Lucius Diefendorf, and died in 
Minden ; Nancy, born October 7, 1839, wife of Peter Geesler of Minden ; George L. 
and John L. (twins), born May 8, 1843, both died in Minden ; and Daniel E. George 
M. was a stone mason by trade and always resided in Minden, where he died April 20, 
1858. His wife died December 21, 1881. Daniel E. of the above family was born in 
Minden, May 16, 1847, and married on December 3, 1873, Mary Catharine, daughter of 
Colonel Josiah Roof. They have three children : Minnie, Lula and George M. 
Daniel B. has been a resident of Minden always, excepting four years when he resided 
at Rome. He has always been engaged in the mill business, and purchased his present 
mill in Minden, October 30, 1877. He is a Republican in politics, and has held the 
office of commissioner of highways. 

Nellis, John W., Canajoharie, was born in Palatine, June 10, 1855, and is a son of 
James and Mary M. (Wert) Nellis. Among the Palatines who arrived in this country 
in 1710 were three brothers, William, Christian and Johannes Nellis. William Nellis 
and twenty-six other Palatines, on the 19th of October, 1723, procured a patent for 



100 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

twelve tbousaiid acres of land lying in the town of Palatine, known as the Stone 
Arabia patent. Following the descendants of WilUiam Kellis, the first, we find Andrew 
Nellis, hisson, who hadason Phillip, who was the great-grandfather of our subject. He 
was born on the old homestead, December 1, 1746, and married at the age of twenty -four 
Elizabeth Dietz of Cherry Valley. He served in the Continental army in the revolution 
and his regiment was in the battle of Oriskany, and was wilh the Palatines at the de- 
fence of Stone Arabia. He had eleven children, of whom Peter P., the third son and 
grandfather of John W., was born in September, 1783. He married at the age of 
twenty-two Margaret Spraker, who was born on this farm. Of their nine children, 
James, father of John W., was the fourth son. He was born April 2, ISlfi, in Fair- 
field, Herkimer county, and came to this town at the age of twenty. Six years later 
he married Mary M., daughter of Daniel Wert of Johnstown, and they had fifteen 
children of whom ten are still living : D. C. Nellis of Topeka, Kan. ; D. W. of the same 
place; Louisa, wife of H. W. McAfee of Topeka, Kan. ; A. J. of Johnstown ; Ozias of 
Amsterdam ; Jay, Emma (wife of S. J. Patten), Magdalene, Anna, and John W., all 
of Palatme. The latter was educated in the public schools and assisted his father on 
the farm unt;l the death ot the latter in 1888. John W. inherited the farm, being 
the third generation to possess it. He is a member of Hamilton Lodge, Ko. 79, F. 
& A. M.; secretary of Montgomery council Patrons of Husbandr}', and is a member 
of the Lutheran church of Canajoharie. This is one of the oldest families in the county. 

Nellis, Jacob C, Canajoharie, was born in St. Johnsville (then Oppenheim) Decem- 
ber 30, 1831, a son of Jeremiah and Margaret (Fox) Nellis. The earliest ancestor 
we can trace of this family, is Christian Nellis, a native of Germany, who located near 
St. Johnsville. There was a tract of land in that town known as the Klock & Nellis 
patent, which was issued by George III. Mr. Nellis has in his possession two deeds 
granted by Christian Nellis, the first to his son, Chri.-^tian Nellis second, which grants 
to him, in consideration of 300 pounds, a large portion of the original. These dfeds 
are both dated June 8, 1767. Christian second was the father of four children, two 
sons and two daughters. The sons were John C. and Jacob C, the last named being 
grandfather of the subject. He was born November 26, 1772, and was a captain of 
milnia. his commission being now in possession of his grandson. He married Mag- 
dalen Kellar of Minden, and they had one son and seven daughters. The son, Jere- 
miah, was born March 20, 1809, and followed farming in St. Johnsville. He was also 
captain of militia of the state, and was colonel of the Nineteenth Regiment, New York 
Militia. He was for one term supervisor of the town of Oppenheim, and was member 
of the legislature for the county of the sixty-first session in 1838. He al.<o held many 
minor offices in the town. In February, 1831, he married Margaret Fox, daughter of 
Christopher Fox of Palatine, and they had four children : Emelia, widow of Darius 
Vedder, a farmer of St. Johnsville; John C, al.so a farmer of the latter town; Marga- 
ret A., wife of Dr. C. C. Vedder of St. Johnsville; and Jacob C. The early life of the 
latter was .spent in St. Johnsville where he was educated in the common schools and 
assisted his father on the farm until thirty-five years of age, when he engaged in trade 
in Montgomery county. Tv.-o years later he was burned out and returned to Montgom- 
ery county, where he engaged in fanning on his present location, a fine place of seventy 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 101 

acres, which he conducts as a dairy farm, finding a market in Fort Plain. He has also 
been engaged in the ice business for fifteen years. In 1860 he married Harriet Chawgo 
of St. Johnsville, and of their four children, Walter is a machinist of Fort Plain ; Sarah 
is the wife of Frank Lipe of Fort Plain ; Jerry is a mechanic in the latter town, and 
Anna resides at home. Mrs. Nellis died May 17, 1880, and Mr. Nellis married second, 
October 5, 1881, Jemima Van Patten, widow of Morgan Alsdorf, and they have one 
child, Emma, a student at Fort Plain. Mr. and Mrs. Nellis are supporters of the Uni- 
versalist church at Fort Plain, where they are regular attendants. 

Nare Family, The. — Five brothers, John, Henry, Jacob, Frederick and David came 
to this county before the revolution, with their father, settling in different parts of the 
county. Zachariah, son of Henry, was born in the town of Palatine and married Cath- 
arine Ecker. They had ten children, six sons and four daughters : Henry, George, 
Adam, James, John. Magdalena, Betsy, Cathern, Margaret. He died about 1884, and 
his wife in 1883. Henry, oldest son of Zachariah, was born June 12, 1813, in this town, 
and has always resided here. He married Eleanor, daughter of Harraaunus Van Dusen, 
and they had three children : Simeon, Catherine (deceased), Amelia, wife of John 
Stuhlman, a native of Germany, who came to America in 1852, and they have one 
child, Emma. Simeon, son of Henry Nare, was born August 5, 1839, and married 
Sarah A. Wemple, by whom he has two children : Charles and Ella. The former re- 
aides at home, and the latter married Frank Jansen, of Troy, and has one child, Ray- 
mond R. Jansen, who was born m March, 1892. Charles married Sarah A. Gardenier, 
a daughter of J. Putman Gardenier. Mr. Nare has always been engaged in farming. 

Nellis, Sylvander, Palatine, was born in Palatine, October 13. 1853, a son of John J. 
and Elizabeth (Fox) Nellis. He received a common school education, and married in 
1876, Annie M., daughter of Willard Snell of Ephratah. They have one son, Judson S. 
Mr. Nellis is a farmer, has been highway commissioner seven years, and is a member of 
Fort Plain Lodge, No. 433, F. and A. M. ; K. of P. ; and is a Granger. He and his 
family are members of the Lutheran church. 

Nestle, Daniel L., Palatine, was born in Palatine, April 20, 1851. His father was 
John Nestle ; his grandfather, Martinus Nestle, whose father was an early settler in 
Palatine. Martinus Nestle married Elizabeth Lasher, and had five sons and four 
daughters. They both died in Palatine. John Nestle was born in Palatine, April 10, 
1813. He married, in 1835, Catherine, daughter of Andrew and Margaret (Wolaver) 
Dillenback (parents of two sons and three daughters), and granddaughter of Capt. An- 
drew and Catherine (Finck) Dillenback, parents of one son and three daughters. Cap- 
tain Dillenback was killed in the battle of Oriskany, during which his son Andrew was 
in a fort at Stone Arabia. John Nestle and wife had five sons and four daughters. He 
was a blacksmith, a farmer, and a member of the militia. He and his wife were mem- 
bers of the Lutheran church; he died July 16, 1878, and his widow lives with Daniel 
L. The latter, at the death of his father, took possession of the farm. He has held 
town offices, and is a member of Palatine Union Grange, No. 580. 

Nellis, Abraham, Palatine, was born in St. Johnsville, September 26, 1820. His 
father was Joseph I. Nellis, and his grandfather Joseph Nellis, whose grandfather was 



102 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

one of the first of the family to settle in now Montgomery county. Joseph Nellis 
was born in 1759, served in the revolutionary army, and married Miss Lapapman, who 
bore him two children : Joseph I. and Mary. The family were members of the Lu- 
theran church. He died February 22, 1834. Joseph I. Nellis was born in 1786, was 
reared on a farm and educated in the common schools ; he was a farmer and a Lutheran ; 
he married Magdaline Bellinger of Montgomery county, by whom he had six .=on8 and 
one daughter; he died in 18G2. Abraham Nellis received an academical education and 
afterwards spent two years at Union College. For a time he was a clerk in the New 
York post-office, after which he read law with General Sanford of that city. In 1848 
he went to California, and a second time in 1851. He married, in 1847, Christia Nel- 
lis ; they have had four children : Ella L. (deceased) ; James (deceased) ; Abraham, jr.; 
Mrs. Julia Duncan of Nelliston. Mr. Nellis is a practical surveyor. He came to Pal- 
atine in 1855 and engaged in farming. In 1860 he started the village of Nelliston, 
which was named for him in 1880. He was instrumental in securing a free bridge 
over the Mohawk, between Nelliston and Fort Plain, and which is the pioneer for all 
free bridges on that river. He was formerly a Democrat, but has been a Republican 
with the organization of that party. He is a member of Hamilton Lodge No. 79. F. 
and A. M., at Fort Plain, and was made a Royal Arch Mason at Canajoharie. He and 
his family are identified with the Palatine Lutheran church. 

Overbaugh, Myron, Florida, was born in Charleston on the 3d of August, 1853. He 
was one of seven children of Nelson and Ehnor (De Forest) Overbaugh, the others be- 
ing Charles, Benjamin, Mrs. P. Haslet McClumpha, Mrs. Gilbert McClumpha, and Mrs. 
Daniel Blood and Allen Overbaugh. The ancestors of Mr. Overbaugh were among the 
early settlers of this region. He was married October 2, 1878, to Catherine, daughter 
of Abram and Ann Elizabeth Van Horn of the town of Glen. They have three chil- 
dren, Van H., Elbert and Elsie. 

Ostrom, Stephen, Glen, one of eight children of Stephen and Anna Maria (Edwards) 
Ostrom, was born at the old family homestead, December 9, 1856, the others being 
Charles J., Anna M. E., wife of Richard Winne ; Elizabeth, wife of Walter B. Cross; 
Miriam C, wife of W. Hoagland Baird; Margaretta (deceased); David I. and Ella L. 
Ostrom. Stephen, the father, was born February 13, 1812, and always lived in Glen, 
where he died August 19, 1886. His wife (Anna Maria) was a daughter of John and 
Ann (Van Schaick) Edwards of Glen, and was born March 19, 1818. Her grandfather, 
William Edwards, was born in Wales. He emigrated to this country in early life and 
settled in this state, marrying Christina Smith, who was of German descent. The 
father of the first Stephen Ostrom was John, who was born in Dutchess county, April 1, 
1764. When twenty-one years of age he came to Glen and settled the farm where 
his grandson Stephen now lives, and where he died December 20, 1846. He married 
Anna Lane, who came from New Jersey February 8, 1787, and she died here on No- 
vember 4, 1830. His father, Henry Ostrom, was born in 1741, ana the wife of the 
latter, Abigail Davenport, was born January 12, 1746. 

Ottman, Mrs. Catharine A., Canajoharie, is a daughter of Christopher and Lydia 
(Hutton) Ottman. Christopher (father of our subject) was born in Root April 18, 



Family sKBTcflES. M 

1816, and was a son ot Henry Ottraan, also a native of this country. The great-grand- 
father, Christian Ottman, came to this county from Holland, settling here previous to 
the war of the revolution. He was the father of three children, and hisvi-ife was Eliz- 
abeth Liker, a daughter of Squire Liker of Root, and Henry, grandfather of our sub- 
ject, was the oldest son. He was married when a young man to Catharine Alpaugh, 
daughter of Abram and Ann (Pettinger) Alpaugh. Mrs. Alpaugh was a native of New 
Jersey. Henry was the father of eleven children, six of whom survive : John of 
Michigan; William of Root; Nelson of Root; Usher of Albany county ; Eve Liza, 
also of Albany county ; Ann, widow of George Denham of Albany, and Christopher, 
father of Catharine, whose home is in Root. He married, at the age of twenty- 
seven, Lydia, daughter of George and Sarah (Wycoffe) Button of Schoharie county, 
and they were the parents of eleven children, nine of whom are living: Henry W. of 
Esperance ; Sarah, wife of Albert Karner of Wynan's Kill ; Harriet, wife of Peter 
Kocher of Canajoharie; Lottie of Fort Plain ; Lorena, wife of Lawrence Vogle of Can- 
ajoharie; Jasper of Canajoharie; Mary, wife of H. B. Shinaman of Fort Plain; Ezra 
of Root, who lives on the old homestead, and our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Ottman are 
both living, the former seventy-seven years of age, and the latter sixty-nine. Mrs. 
Ottman conducts a fine farm of 120 acres devoted to hay and grain, and also conducts 
a dairy of about twenty-five cows. She has two children, Benjamin, who conducts the 
farm, was born April 28, 1877, and Ada Bertha, a student at Clinton Liberal Institute. 

Powell, Samuel F., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Westerlo, Albany county, 
June 29, 184G, and was educated in the public schools in winters, working on the farm 
in summer; he also attended Coeymans Academy one year ; after this he taught school 
several terms to obtain means for his further education ; he then took the full course 
at Albany State Normal School, graduating therefrom in January, 1877. January 19, 
1882, he married Maria R. Van Derzee of Coeymans ; they have five children, three 
sons and two daughters : Caroline J., Annie L., Van Derzee, Samuel F., jr., and Win- 
field B. Mr. Powell came to Amsterdam in 1888; he was elected school commissioner 
in 1881 of Albany county, and served with distinction one full term ; he has been a 
a druggist since 1884 ; his grandfather on his mother's side, Sylvanus Kelly, was in the 
war of 1812. 

Pettingill, Adam Z., Amsterdam, Tribes Hill p. o., was born in the town of Mohawk, 
a mile west of Tribes Hill, April 5, 1858, and is a son of Cornelius and Mary E. (Zieley) 
Pettingill. He is now conducting the leading industry of Tribes Hill, a paper box 
manufactory. He employs a large number who make their homes in this village. But 
the principal advantage of such an establishment in the place is that it gives employ- 
ment to those who make their purchases at home and thus help the place. The busi- 
ness has been established but six years, and from a small beginning Mr. Pettingill has 
built it up to its present large proportions. Although doing an extensive business it 
will be greatly increased the present year (1891). He finds a market for his product 
in the mills at Fort Hunter, FultonviUe, Fonda and Amsterdam. His specialty is the 
fancy boxes su';h as are used for silk mitts, etc. He buys most of the stock used direct 
from the manufacturers in car loads, the paper board mill at Stillwater furnishing the 
most of it. Mr. Pettingill comes from the old pioneer stock, connected with the an- 



104 HISTORY OF lirONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

cestors of many of the leading business men of this county. His father died in 1871 
when Adam was but thirteen years old, and he has had to pull for himself since, with 
what success is shown by the above sketch. January 19, 1887. he married Julia Slat- 
tery of Troy. He has always been an active worker for his political party but not an 
office seeker. Content to let others govern while he devotes his time and attention to 
his business. 

Pawling Mary A., Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was horn in Perth, Fulton 
county, January 24, 1835. She was a daughter of Thomas and Helen (Morton) Mc- 
Queen, both of whom came from Scotland about 1827, among the earliest settlers of 
their section. She was educated in tlie public school and came to Hagaman's Mills in 
1857. November 14, 1860, she was married to Myndert W. Pawling of Hagaman's 
Mills, son of Levi and Jane (Hagaman) Pawling, and they have three children: Jennie, 
now Mrs. R. B. Davis, born August 11, 1861 ; Belle, now Mrs. Skinner of Utica, 
born December 8, 1865; and Henry W., born July 19, 1868, now attending Rutgers 
College, acquiring a theological education. Mrs. Pawling's neice, Jennie C. Pawling, 
is a member of her family, having lost her mother in early infancy. She was born 
March 15, 188'2. The first twelve years of Mrs. Pawling's married life were spent on 
a farm, when Mr. Pawhng losing his health they moved into the village, where he died 
July 18, 1876, aged fifty-six years. 

Plantz, Giles H., Amsterdam, Fort Johnson p. o., was born in Perth, June 19, 1845, 
and is a son of Michael and Charlotte (Plantz) Plantz. As far back as our subject can 
trace, the ancestry were natives of this country. Peter Plantz, grandfather on the 
mother's side, was born about 1790 and died in 1875. He was the father of ten chil- 
dren, Charlotte being one of the number. Michael Plantz, and grandfather on the 
father's side, was born about 1785 and died in 1870. He was the father of five chil- 
dren, of which Michael, the father of our subject, was next to the oldest. He married 
Charlotte Plantz, and they are the parents of six children, four now living : David of 
Perth ; Elizabeth, now Mrs. John H. Putnam of Johnstown ; Melissa, now Mrs. George 
Joslyn of Perth ; and Giles, our subject. He was educated in the common schools of 
Amsterdam and always lived there until his marriage, December 28, 1870, to Etta 
Hough of .the town of Mohawk, and they have one child, Lottie E., born August 20, 
1875. Mrs. Plantz died the same day. After his marriage he moved to his present 
residence, a fine farm of 143 acres. February 20, 1878, he married Etta Putnam, 
daughter of Aaron and Sarah A. (Hubb?) Putnam of Johnstown. Mr. Plantz has always 
been a successful farmer, diligent and industrious. He has never been a political office 
holder, but devotes his whole time and attention to his business. 

Putnam M. Matilda, Amsterdam, Tribes Hill p. o., was born March 31, 1829, at her 
present residence at Tribes Hill. Mrs. Martha Putnam Van Allen was born at Fonda 
April 29, 1833; Mis. Cornelia B. Putnam Pine was born at Fonda October 21, 1838. 
These three sisters were daughters of Tunis and Rachel (KUne) Putnam. Tunis was a 
son of John A. Putnam of Massachusetts, who came to this town previous to 1800. He 
was the father of ten children, of which Tunis was next to the youngest, and he was 
married March 13, 1828. He was the father of four children, the three mentioned 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 105 

above, and Sarah A. Putnam, who died in infancy. Tunis Putnam died in 1850, forty- 
five years of age. His wife, Rachel KHne, died January 1, 1890. She was a daughter 
of John Kline whose ancestors were Hollanders. He was was born in this county in 
1778, and was the father of six cliildren, of whom but _one is living— Mrs. Angelica 
Johnson, born February 4, 1816. The name of Putnam is one of great importance in 
the history of this county, the family being direct descendants of General Israel Putnam 
of revolutionary fame. John A. Putnam, their grandfather, was for years engaged in 
the manufacture of leather, also conducted a large farm. The residence of these sis- 
ters was built about 1800, one of the oldest in the town of Amsterdam. 

Pruyn, Catherine Mrs., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Glen, Montgomery 
county, March20, 1819, and July 11, 1839, married Coh Charles H. Skillan of New 
York. After their marriage they lived in Rome.'w'here he enlisted a regiment of men. 
known as the Fourteenth N. Y. Volunteers; he was its colonel and was killed in the 
battle of Gaines' Mills while leading his men in that action ; he was as brave a man as 
ever wore the Union blue. Her second husband was born in the town of Glen. No- 
vember 25, 1811; he was well educated, was a merchant in the town of Glen forty 
years and afterwards moved to Amsterdam, where he was a grocery merchant twelve 
years. He was married three times; first to Jane Ostrum, second to Phoebe, daughter 
of Rev. Henry V. WycofF; on June 14, 1874, for his third wife he married Mrs. 
Catherine (Vi.«soher) Skillan. Mrs. Pruyn never has had any children. Mr. Pruyn 
was the soul of honor in all his business transactions, and in all the relations of life was 
a faithful member of the Presbyterian church, and died in the faith May 23, 1888. loved 
by all. 

Potter, John K , Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam on the farm north 
of the city known as the John Hand farm, January 20, 1823, and was educated in the 
public schools. He was a farmer until he attained the age of twenty-five, afterward." 
he was in the lumber business and has been an auctioneer for over thirty years ; he 
has been deputy-sheriff for six years, under sheriff three years, supervisor of the town 
of Amsterdam two years, and in war times he was town collector. January 4, 1843, 
he married Margaret, a daughter of Frederick and Hannah Moore of the town of Am- 
sterdam ; they had seven children, four of whom are living: Anna E., who married 
Thomas Emmitt Allen, now of Jackson, Mich. ; Isabella M., who married Philip Play- 
ford of this city; Cscar K., now city treasurer, who married Sarah Breedon ; and Jay 
N., who married Sarah A. Clapper, now of Catskill. The names of those that died are 
as follows : lohabod, who married Alice Smith of this place and died at Catskill, 
March 19, 1891 ; Eugene M. and Jennie M., who died about the age of twenty-two 
months. 

Putnam, Victor G., Amsterdam, Tribes Hill, p. o., was born on the old Putnam farm 
on the north shore of the Mohawk, November 22, 1818, a son of Garret V. and Mary 
(Hanson) Putnam. Garret V. was a son of Victor Putnam who came to this country 
from Holland and owned one of the original grants on the north side of the Mohawk, 
where his son Garret was born in 1793, and always lived there until 1847, when he 
moved across the river and lived on a farm at what is called Yankee Hill, where he 



106 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

• lied in 1875, leaving four children: Dow, living in this town ; John H., who lived on 
'he old homestead at Yankee Hill ; Deborah A. of Tribes Hill ; and Victor G.. our sub- 
ject. Garret was drafted for the war of 1812 but secured a substitute. Victor G. 
vas educated in the public schools of this town and lived at home until his marriage to 
fane Stoller, daughter of Christian and Magdalen (Reese) Stoller, which occurred Sep- 
tember 21, 1843; after this event he moved to the farm adjoining liis present residence 
where he remained three years, then came back to his father's farm where he has since 
remained. He is the father of three children : Sarah, now Mrs. John Sweet of Akin ; 
Anna, and Willard. Mr.' Putnam has been a successful farmer and has one of the best 
hay and grain farms in western Amsterdam. There is a large stone quarry on the 
place, which is a source of income and profit to Mr. Putnam. He has never been in- 
terested in politics. 

Peck, Tunis, Amsterdam, was born at Hoffman's Ferry, Schenectady county, on the 
13th of September, 1835, and was educated in the public schools and in early life was 
:i clerk in a grocery store. Afterwards he became a partner under the firm name of 
Green, Wemple & Peck. In 1877 he became a broom manufacturer and is now doing 
business under the firm name of Tunis, Peck & Company. He was married twice, 
first in the year 1858 to Annie Lasher of Fonda, by whom he had two children, a son 
and a daughter, both of nhom died in infancy. Mrs. Peck died in 1865. In the year 
1867 he married Susanne Miller of Amsterdam, by whom he has two sons, Wilham M., 
and Tunis Ralph. Mr. Peck's father, Abram, was born in Charlton, Saratoga county. 
He married Margaret Swart of the same place. They had two children, only Tunis 
survived. 

Putman, Howard, Amsterdam, was born in Auriesville, Montgomery county, on the 
21st of December, 1859, and came to Port Jackson with his parents in 1860. He at- 
tended the public schools and Amsterdam Academy and taught school three years, and 
read law three, when, on the 3d of November, 1888, he was admitted to the bar. He 
was elected supervisor to represent the First Ward in March, 1886 and 1887. In March, 
1888, he was elected city recorder, serving three years, and justice of the peace in 1889, 
a position which he still holds, besides serving as sewer commissioner and member of 
the board of education of school district No. 11. He has been identified with the fire 
department since he way a boy and is now a member of E. D. Bronson Steamer Com- 
pany, and has been its secretary seven year.o He has also been president, secretary 
and treasurer of the fire department. On the 6th of June, 1880, he married Clara, only 
daughter of John N. Phillips of this city. They have one son, John M., who was born 
on the 16th of May, 1882. Mr. Putman's father, .John' C. was born in the town of 
Mohawk on the 12th of January, 1822. On the lOlh of December, '1845, he married 
Mary M. Consaul, formerly of Schenectady. They had seven children, three sons and 
three daughters. William and J. Corsaul are now dead. The following survive: 
Harriet E., Anna, Cora and Dora (twins), and Howard, as noted above. 

Potter, Oscar K., Amsterdam, was born at Spraker's, Montgomery county, on the 
15th of May, 1852, and came here with his parents when he was two years old. He 
tvas educated in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. He was elected city 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 107 

treasurer March 1, 1892. and on the 18th of December, 1873, he married Sarah A., old 
est daughter of WiUiam and Mary Breedon of Amsterdam. They had one daughter, 
Laura K., who died April 14, 1880, aged five and a halt years. Mr. Potter's father was 
born on the 20th of January, 1823, in Amsterdam, and married Margaret Moore of the 
town of Amsterdam. They had seven children, four sons and three daughters, namely ; 
Anna K., Isabella M., Oscar K., Jay N., Eugene, Ichabod and Jennie M. The ancestry 
of the family is Dutch. 

Peck, Richard, Amsterdam, was born in the town of Wells. Hamilton county, on the 
27th of July, 1849, and received a public school and academic education. For one year 
he followed the vocation of teaching and then read law with a distinguished lawyer. 
Richard H. Rosa (who held the position of district attorney of Fulton county) for 
three vears and six months. In November, 1874, he was admitted to the bar and prac- 
ticed at Broadalbin, Fulton county, for one year and three months, after which became 
to Amsterdam on the 10th of January, 1876, where he has since resided and practiced 
his profession. He is a member of the board of education of the city of Amsterdam. 
On the 23d of August, 1877, he married Lizzie S., only daughter of Richard T. and 
Eleanor Wade of South Adams, Mass. They have one son, George H., who was born 
on the 7th of August, 1881. Mr. Peck's father, William B., v\'as born at the old home 
in Hamilton county, and was county clerk. He married Frances M. Craig of Hamilton 
county. William B. was killed in the battle of the Wilderness, on the 7th of May, 
1864. The ancestry of the family is English and Scotch. 

Pawling, William M., Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., is a son of Henry and 
Margaret (Van Der Bogart) Pawling, and was born August 12, 1837, in the town ol 
Galway, Saratoga county. His father, Henry, was born February 2.5, 1811, and his 
mother, October 8, 1819, and they were married March 31, 1836. Their children were 
William M., born November 2, 1839, and Haskell, born in December, 1849. Six years 
after William's birth his parents moved to Hagaman's Mills, where he went to the 
village school and also tended cards at his father's mill before and after school hours. 
In 1849 he left school and gave his whole time to the mill. In 1857 his father, with a 
partner named Jackson, started the manufacture of knit goods, William Pawling actinp' 
as a general superintendent. After the withdrawal of Mr. Jackson from the firm Will- 
iam joined the IT. S. navy, shipping aboard the steamer Fahkee, dispatch vessel foi 
Rear Admiral Lee. He saw about eight months of service, when he came home and 
joined his fatlier in partnership in the manufacture of knit goods, remaining thus until 
about 1871 when he left to build what is now known as the Harrower mill. In 1879- 
80 he built the Anchor knitting mill at Hagaman's Mills and it was run with the other 
two, under the firm name of H. Pawling &. Sons. In 1884 a division was made, Henry 
Pawling retiring, H. H. Pawling taking charge of the Star hosiery mill, and William 
M. of the Anchor knitting mills, which mill he has since conducted. 

Pickard Family, The. — This name was originally spelt Piokert, and afterwards Pick- 
erd, and about the commencement of the present century the "e" was changed to "a." 
John Pickard, the original settler of the family in the Mohawk valley, came from Hol- 
land and bought a farm in the original Holland patent, which was located near Brook- 



108 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

man's Corneis, in what is now Minden. Tliis faira lias never been out of tlie possession 
or name of tlie family. John was a schoolmaster in his native country, and on coming 
to America previous to the revolutionary war, he taught languages. Dominie Wack 
learned the English language from him. He was the first quartermaster-general in the 
United States, having been appointed in 1775. While carrying dispatches from some 
point to Cherry Valley he incurred a sickness or was wounded, from the effects of 
whice he died about 1780. He is buried at Stone Arabia. The follow-ng of his chil- 
dren are all we have any trace of: Jacob, Nicholas, Henry, John and a daughter. 
They all removed to other localities in New York State, excepting Nicholas, who was 
born in Minden about 1748, and had the following children : Isaac, John, George N., 
a daughter who married Jacob Wieting ; another daughter who was stolen from her 
parents while an infant by the Indians and who never returned to her native town. 
Nicholas died in 1830 and is buried at Hallsville. Of his sons, George N. remained on 
the old homestead. He framed the first wood building in the Otsquago valley. He was 
born in Minden, July 8, 1778, and married Catharine, daughter of Martin Bettinger. 
Their children were Abraham, Magdalena, born July 9, 1799, married John Country- 
man, and died at Cherry Valley; Martinus, born October 4, 1801, died in Minden; 
Leah, born July 8, 1804, and married Felix Wagner of Minden ; Catharine, born Nov- 
ember 27, 180G. died at the age of twenty years ; George N., died February 5, 1829 
Abraham, the oldest of the above family, was born in Mindi n, May 28, 1797, and mar- 
ried Susan, daughter of Frederick Bronner. She was born November 25, 1804, and 
they had nine children : Levi, born August 12, 1825, lives in Root; Caty, born Janu- 
ary 18, 1827, married Ephraim Wiles, and died in Minden; Asa; George N., born 
January 22, 1831, lives in Perth ; John Adams'; Martin Andrews, born February 11, 1835, 
a resident of Minden and proprietor of Brookman's Corners factory and store; be has 
one son, Ralph aged twelve; Jacob Henry, died in 1872, aged thirty-five years, and 
Mary Elizabeth (twins), wife of Ames Walrath of Minden; and Amy Ann, born Feb- 
ruary 19, 1840, married George Hussaiig and died Minden. Abraham died December 
6, 1882. Asa, of the above family, was born in Minden November 10, 1828, and mar- 
ried Jane Fero. They have one son, Julius A., born September 4, 1853, and married 
•Sarah Linter. Asa learned the trade of blacksmith in 184fi of Jacob Sneck, and located 
where he now lives in 1862. John Adams, of the above family, was born in Minden 
November 28, 1832. and married Mary Margaret Youngs. Their four children are : 
J. Eugene, a resident of Guthrie, Oklahoma Territory ; Maiy, wife of Elmer E. Wilbur 
of Johnstown ; Albert E., and De Etta. John A., is a carpenter and contractor and 
located in Fort Plain in 1886, and is the owner of the old farm. 

Phillips, George Edgar, Minden, was born at Fort Plain, October 5, 1854, and is the 
second son in a family of three children of George and Almira (Hadcock) Phillips. 
After attending the schools at Fort Plain, at the age of fourteen years he commenced 
clerking, and was engaged in different stores in Fort Plain till 1876, when he com- 
menced the study of law with James Gcnter. He was admitted to the bar in Septem- 
ber, 1879, and formed a partnership with Mr. Genter, which was dissolved in the spring 
of 1882, since which time he has carried on business alone. A Republican in politics, 
he has never held public office. Mr. Phillips married, October 16, 1882, Jeanie.daugh- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 109 

ter of Thomas Hollis of Fort Plain. Mrs. Pliillips is a native of Birniingliam, England. 
They have two children, Gertrude and Edna. 

Putnam, John W., Glen, one of seven children of William and Eliza C. (Martin) 
Putnam, was born in Glen, June 14, 1847. The others were John, Martin, Hannah, 
Mary (all deceased) ; Ann Leslie (Mrs. Delos Higbie) ; and Harriet (Mrs. William L. 
Sammons). William Putnam, the father, was born in Mohawk and was one of four 
children. His wife, Eliza C, was born in Glen, and was one of the thirteen children 
of Jerrj' Martin and wife. John Putnam, the grandfather, was also born in Glen. 
John W. Putnam was married in ISSl, to Jennie H. Rickard of Skaneateles. She was 
the daughter of Alexander and Elizabeth Rickard, and was one of three children. Mr. 
Putnam was born on the old homestead, where, excepting a few years in early life, he 
always lived. 

Post, Henry W., M. D., Glen, one of two children of 0. R. and Rachel C. (Watrous) 
Post, was born at Braltleboro, Vt., November 23, 1854. On the completion of the 
high school course in his native city he entered Amherst College in 1872. He then took 
two courses at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York and spent two 
years in the city hospital at Hartford, Conn., after which he began the practice of his 
profession in the town of Marcellus, where he remained for nine years. In 18^9 he 
removed to Fultonville, where he now resides, continuing his profession. February 4, 
1880, he married Jnlia DaboU of Memphis, one of five children of Henry and Charlotte 
Goodwin Daboll. They have two children, Florence and Henry D. Post. 

Payne, H. Blackford, Glen, was born in London, England, February 26, 1869, where 
he was educated and lived until twenty-one years of age. His father was Fiancis Pegg 
Payne, M. D., and his grandfather was Harry Blackford, the noted inventor and mem- 
ber of the old established firm of Cooper & Blackford, coach lace manufacturers of Long 
Acre, London. Mr. Payne studied law but at the age of twenty-one he entered his 
brother-in-law's lace mill in Nottingham, where he soon developed a remarkable ability 
in the manufacture of lace, he being the originator of twenty-four inventions in con- 
nection with the knitting and lace industries, the most important of them being the 
straight warp knitting machine, known in the trade as "Payne's Fast Warp Machine." 
and the circular traver.se warp knitting machine (the first invention of this machine). 
He was also first inventor of the double tier lace machine. He was married in Not- 
tingham on March 26, 1881, to Ann Hall of that city. He came to this country in 
1888, and has been .superintendent of the Starin Silk Fabric company since May I, 18S9. 
He has four children : Henry F. B., Winifred A. B., Lillian A. M., and Florence Vic- 
toria. The Starin Silk Fabric company of Fultonville was organized by Commodore 
John H. Starin in 188.5 for the benefit of the young people of Fultonville, the product 
being silk gloves and mitts. The factory gives remunerative employment to about 200 
workers, the product being nearly one million pairs of gloves and mitts per year. The 
main building is 8.5 x 35 feet, three stories and basement, with adjoining workshops. 
Mr. H. Blackford Payne is superintendent of the mill. 

Place, Daniel N., Minden, was born in the town of Poestenkill, then Sand Lake, 
Rensselaer county, May 15, 1838, and is the oldest son in a family of nine children of 



110 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

John J. and Lucinda (Searles) Place. His father was a blacksmith by trade, and in his 
early life he worked with his father. His education was limited to the district schools, 
and he afterwards learned the wagonmaker's trade, and opened a shop at Poestenkill, 
where he continued till 1868, when he purchased of Henry Adams a grocery store in 
Troy. He disposed of this business in 1872, and two years later purchased of Charles 
Garrison of that city a wholesale coflee and spice stock, which he continued to run till 
his removal to Minden in 1880. Since his location in Montgomery county he has been 
engaged in farming. He married Huldah Horton, and they have five children, viz.: 
Louisa, wife of George Harpel of Lansingburgh ; James E., a merchant in Minden ; 
Hattie M., wife of Frederick Stair of Rotterdam; Frank B., in the men's furnishing 
business at Troy ; and George V., a resident of Minden. Mr. Place is a Democrat in 
politics, and was for two years town clerk of Poestenkill, and has been for the past 
twelve years justice of the peace. 

Putman, Simon W., Mohawk, son of George F. and Sarah C. (Veeder) Putman, was 
born in Fonda, March 7, 1853, and has always lived in that place. He was educated 
in the common schools and Amsterdam Academy. In 1878 he was appointed clerk of 
the surrogate's court and filled that position until January 1, 1889, when he was ad- 
mitted to the bar, liaving previously practiced for several years. In 1881 he was elected 
justice of the peace, and served as trustee of the village and as member of the board of 
water commissioners. He is a member of the Fultonville Lodge No. 531 F. & A. M., 
Fonda Lodge 226, A. O. U. W., Mohawk River Lodge 168 K. of P., and Cayadutta 
Council 1405 Royal Arcanum. John I. Putman was a son of Captain Gerrit Putman 
of Schenectady count)', who owned a large tract of land in that county, and served aa 
captain in the army of the revolution. John I. settled on Tribes Hill at an early day, 
where he purchased a mile square of land, and raised a large family of children. Fisher 
Putman was a son of John I. and was born at Tribes Hill. He married Jane Ellison, 
and was an early postmaster, holding the office for several years. He was a harness- 
maker and carried on that business during his life. He had six children by his first 
wife and three by his second — a Miss Balch. George F., son of Fisher, was born at 
Tribes Hill June 26, 1824. He learned the trade of blacksmith and carried on the 
business in Fonda until his death, July 13, 1891. He married Sarah C. Veeder, who 
bore him four children : Lydia, who died in infancy ; Simon W. ; Charles M., born 
January 26, 1859. He lives in Johnstown and is a painter ; also George A., born Octo- 
ber 4, 1864, who- lives at Fonda. 

Putman, Victor A., Glen, was born on the old homestead in the town of Glen, July 
28, 1822, and is one of the eight children of Abraham V. Putnam, who was born Aug- 
ust 28, 1890, and was married September 21, 1813, by Rev. Peter Van Buren, to Maria, 
daughter of John C. and Eva (Clute) Vedder. Maria was born March 15, 1796, and 
died February 19, 1850. Victor C. Putnam, the grandfather, was born in the town 
of Glen (at that time Tryon county) May 31, 1756, and died November 9, 1816. He 
was lieutenant in Colonel Willett's levies, also in Colonel Harper's, and fought at 
Oriskany and at Johnstown. He married first Anne, daughter of Abraham Garrison. 
She was born in 1757 and died February 14, 1813. He married second Mrs. Margaret 
(Visscher) Ten Eyck, daughter of Hermon Visscher, and sister of Col. Frederick 



FAMILY SKETCHES. Ill 

Visscher. She was born March 11, 1759, and was one of two children who made their 
«scape at the massacre of their brothers at the homestead farm in 1780. Cornehus, 
the great-grandfather, was born in 1724, and died April 19, 1798. His wife, Elizabeth 
(Pruyn) Putman, was born in 1726 and died March 21, 1812. The father of Cornelius 
was Victore Putman, who married, December 2, 1706, the sister of Jan Pieterse Mebie. 
In 1727 the land lying next to the Mabie property was put down on an old parchment 
map as owned by Victore Potman, and this land is still in the possession of a descend- 
ant of the family. Victore was the second son of Jan Pootman. Johannes (Jan) Put- 
man in 1661 was a boy of sixteen, living at Albany. He came to Schenectady in 1662, 
and married Cornelia, a daughter of Arent Andries Bradt, and Catalyntje De Vos, of 
Schenectady. In 1G90 both he and his wife were massacred by the Indians. Victor 
A. Putman was married October 6, 1840, to Eveline Van Home, who was born April 
23, 1822, only daughter of Cornelius C. and Hannah Van Home. They had four chil- 
dren : Anna, born November 19, 1841; John V.. born Marcli 14, 1844; Abram V., 
born February 14, 1849, died January 18. 1852; and Van Home, born August 28, 
1854, died July 31, 185.5. Anna Putman married, December 30, 1861, Edwin D. Cady, 
and they have one son. Rev. Putman Cady, born at Auriesville, May 13, 1863. He re- 
ceived his preparatory education at Schenectady, and graduated from Princeton College 
in 1885, and from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1888. He is now pastor of the 
First Presbyterian church of West Superior, Wis. Abraham V. Putman, father of our 
subject, was appointed, March 22, 1816, ensign of a company of the Twenty-Sixth 
Regiment of Infantry of the State of New York by Governor Tompkins ; was ap- 
pointed, April 24, 1818, lieutenant in same regiment by Gov. Dewitt Clinton, by 
whom he was also appointed, December 27, 1826, captain of riflemen. He was 
supervisor during the year 1828, and was member of assembly of the State of New 
York in 1836-37. He died April 3, 1855. Victor A. has also served as supervisor. 
John V. Putman who is now serving his second term as supervisor, was elected justice 
of the peace in 1885, and served four years. The above three were supervisors of the 
town of Glen one-fourth of the time since 1828. 

Putman, Victor, a native of Holland, settled in Root previous to the Revolution 
He was an old man when the war broke out, and a cripple, and when out fishing 
one day with two other men, they were taken prisoners and he was killed. He 
had six sons and four daughters. Philip V., son of Victor, was born in Root, and 
married Elizabeth Kring, by whom he had nine children, seven sons and two daughters. 
He was a hatter by trade, and was a cloth dresser several years. He was blind 
for some years before his death, which occurred August 19, 1859. His wife died Feb- 
ruary 22, 1856. His son, Stephen, was born in Root, Marcli 4, 1824. When he was 
nine years old his father moved to Palatine, and Stephen resided there until twenty- 
five years of age. At the age of fourteen he went to work out on a farm. January 22, 
1851, he married Miss Dockstader of Palatine, and two years later he bought the farm 
where he now lives. He had thirteen children, seven of whom are living. His wife 
died July 8, 1884. He was roadmaster in his district for thirty-two years, and was 
instrumental in getting the Yellowville road through. He is a member of the Reformed 
church of Stone Arabia, of which he has been elder eight years. Stephen Putman's 
father was born November 20, 1791 ; he also was a soldier in the war of 1812. 



112 HISTORT OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Pardee, J. H., Palatine, was born in Hamptlen, Conn., April 3, 1834. His parents 
were John and Harriet Pardee, natives of Connecticut, who reared two daughters and 
three sons, J. H. being the youngest. His •irandfather was Joel Pardee; and his great- 
grandfather was Thomas Pardee. The family has been in this country over two hun- 
dred years, and is of French and English descent. J. H. Pardee received a commoiy 
school education and learned the trade of mason. He afterwards became a machinist, 
and was superintendent of the Spring and Axle works at Bridgeport for a time; after 
which he went to Massachusetts and married Martha, daughter of Loring and Harriet 
(Foster) Shuraway of Belchertown. The Shuniways trace their ancestors to the May- 
flower. J. H. and wife have one son, Thomas, who is a clerk for Devoe & Shuraway of 
Fort Plain. In 1880 Mr. Pardee came to Fort Plain and look charge of the Spring and 
Axle works at that place. He was superintendent five years, since which time lie has 
been engaged in the invention and construction of tools used in the shop. 

Powers, William H., Root, was born in Sprakers, April 13, 1866, and is a son of 
Nelson and Eliza C. (Quackenbush) Powers, natives of Palatine and Root, respectively. 
In early life Mr. Powers was a railroad man in the employ of the New Yovk Central 
Railroad, but has followed farming since. He was the only child of his parents that 
reached maturity. He received a district school education, and taught school three 
terras. At the age of twenty he engaged in farming and was elected justice of the 
peace in February, 1889, which office he resigned in July, 1S9I. He is a Prohibitionist 
in politics. 

Quackenbush. David H., Palatine, was born in Root, July 9, 1836. His father was 
William, born in Root, September 10, 1810, and his grandfather was Peter, a native of 
Holland, but an early settler of Root, where he died. The mother of David H. was 
Clarissa Leroy, born in Montgomery county. William Quackenbush and wife raised a 
family of ten children. He was a farmer and died in 1864, and his wife in 1883. 
David H. was brought up on a farm and attended the common school. He married 
Phoebe, daughter of Daniel Van Wie of Palatine. They have one daughter, Nancy, 
now Mrs. McClellan Quackenbush, aud who resides on the farm of Andrew Yan Wie, 
deceased ; she has one child, Maggie. David H. and his wife are members of the 
Lutheran church at Stone &.rabia. 

Quilhot, John, Amsterdam, Tribes Hill p. o., was born in the town of Perth January 
24, 1830. and is a son of Peter (born March 22, 1798) and Jane (Yan Nest) Quilhot. 
This name is one of the oldest in the history of Fulton and Montgomery counties. The 
ancestors were French, and the family as far back as we can trace were residents of 
this section. Peter, father of our subject, was born in 1798 and died in 1864, leaving 
nine children, six are now living: Anne Gertrude Moore of Mohawk; Arian Vosburgh 
of Johnstown ; Jane E. Heagle of Johnstown ; Stephen of Amsterdam ; Peter of New 
York ; and John, our subject. He was educated in the common schools and helped his 
father on the farm until the latter's death, when he and his brother Henry (who died 
in 1881') conducted the farm. January 6, 1858, he married Jane A. Hart, daughter of 
Henry and Dorothy (Stoller) Hart, and their union has been blessed with two children : 
Henry J. of Johnstown, born September 12, 1859, and Anna, born ilarch 20, 1865. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 113 

Mrs. Qiiilhot died in 1867. Mr. Qnilhot lived on the farm until 1891, when he moved to 
his present residence near the Lutheran church, where, in his advanced years, he finds 
enough to occupy his time in attending to the twenty acres belonging to this place. 
His daughter Anna lives with him, and is his comfort in hi.= declining years. 

Romeyn, Thomas E., Amsterdam, was born on the farm where he now lives, in Am- 
sterdam, December 27, 1844, and is a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Van Wornier) 
Romeyn. Thomas, father of our subject, was a son of Rev. Thomas Romeyn, who was 
a son of Rev. Thomas Romeyn, who was the first protestant preacher west of Sche- 
nectady. Thomas, grandfather of our subject, was located in Florida and preached in 
the circuit mcluding the counties of Montgomery, Schenectady and Saratoga. Thoma.'- 
Romeyn, father of our subject, was educated for a surveyor and always followed thai 
profession together with that of farming. He was married when he was thirty-foui 
years of age, and when he died, July 10, 1885, he left one child, Thomas E. (our sub- 
ject), whose boyhood days were spent at home. He was educated at the common 
schools, Joiiesville and Amsterdam Acailemies. September 2, 1SG3, he married Jane 
A. Milroy, daughter of John E. and Matilda (Haswell) Mihoy of Glenville. They are 
the parents of five children : Thomas T., Anna il. (now Mrs. John Deuel), Elizabeth. 
Benjamin and J. Edwm. Mr. Romeyn has always lived on the old homestead with the 
exception of six years, when he lived in Glenville. He conducts and owns three large 
grain farms, making together about 230 acres. He is prosperous and successful, and 
has been a town officer a great many terms, also followed surveying for twenty-nine 
years. 

Rivenburg, Jonas, Amsterdam, Fort Johnson p. o., was born in the town of St. 
Johnsville, October 18, 1847, and is a son of Martin and Mary A. (Rockenfelter) Ri- 
venberg. The ancestry of this family were Hollanders. But as far back as our sub- 
ject can trace the immediate family were born in this country. The early life of Jonas 
was spent in Ephratah, where his parents moved soon after bis birth. He was edu- 
cated in the common schools, and was yet a sclioolboy when the war broke out. Oii 
December 28, 1863, he enlisted in the Thirteenth New York Heavy Artillery, and saw 
service about Norfolk and through Virginia. He stayed with the regiment until thi 
close of the war, when he was mustered out under general orders on the 24th of Au- 
gust, 186.5. He returned home and followed farming. October 16, 1867, he married 
Martha Darby, daughter of Samuel Darby of Ephratah. Their union has been blessed 
by seven children, six of whom are living : Jennie, now Mr.s. S. Liford ; Samuel, Carl, 
Edward, Adrian, and Millie. Mr. Rivenburg is the trusted engineer of No. 2 mill ai 
Fort Johnson, and has been engaged with A. V. Morris & Sons for about six years. 

Rulison, Elbert T., M. D., Amsterdam, was born on the 9th of June, 1852, in Parish. 
Oswego county, and was educated in the public schools, Mexico Academy and Cazeno 
via Seminary. He graduated from the Albany Medical College in 1875 and first prac- 
ticed at Bath on the Hudson for four years, but came to Amsterdam in 1880. Dr 
Rulison early saw the necessity of a city hospital, and was one of the first, if not thi- 
original promoter of it, and the wisdom of this project has been so manifested that now 
there is need of an enlarged building and other facilities. The doctor is a member ol 



114 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

the New York State Medical Association and the Montgomery Medical Society ; also 
of Artisan Lodge No. 84, F. & A. M. of Amsterdam, Chapter No. 81 R. A. M., and of 
Chuctenunda Lodge No. 100, Knights of Pythias. On the 2d of October, 1878, he 
married Libbie, only daughter of William and Christina Newhouse of Bath. They 
liave had four children: one girl, Lillian M., died in infancy. Three are living, Mabel 
N"., Elbert T., jr., and Emily C. 

Reid, Jay A., Amsterdam, was born on the homestead near Amsterdam June 13, 
1843 ; he received a common school education and was a farmer by occupation. Octo- 
ber 19, 1871, he married Alice, third and youngest daughter of Daniel D. and Mary L 
Herrick of this city. They have had two children, Arthur and Frank; the latter died 
at the age of fourteen months. Mr. Reid's father, James, was born in Scotland and 
when he was seven years old came with his parents to the United States. They located 
in the town of Amsterdam, now incorporated in the city. His father married Lura 
Bartlett of Galway ; they had three children, two sons and one daughter : Mary, who 
married John T. De Graff; Jay A., and Edward M., who resides in Brooklyn. 

Reid, W. Max, Amsterdam, was born in the village of Amsterdam June 8, 1839, and 
was educated in the public schools. In his early life he was a clerk in several dry goods 
establishments, and afterwards book-keeper for I. C. Shuler & Company. At the death 
of John McDonald he took charge of his widow's interest in the concern until the dis- 
solution of the partnership in 1889; at this time Mr. Reid began business for himself 
by gathering the fragments of the old concern together, and has since manufactured 
burial caskets and conducted an undertaking establishment. Mr. Reid isidenlified with 
the public enterprises of this city ; he is president of the board of trade, secretary of 
the Amsterdam city hospital, secretary of Green Hill Cemetery association, senior war- 
den of St. Ann's Episcopal church, trustee of the Young Men's Christian association, 
member of the advisory committee of the Children's Home, a member of Artisan Lodge 
No. 84, F. & A. M., of this city. After the board of trade was formed he was largely 
instrumental in securing the charter for the city of Amsterdam. June 8, 18G0, he mar- 
ried Laura L., oldest daughter of the late John and Maria McDonald ; they have three 
children, two sons and a daughter : James McD., wlio is deputy postmaster and mar- 
ried Carrie Nettle of Gloversville ; they have one daughter, Laura Pauline ; Carrie C, 
who resides with her parents, and Augustus C, who is a student in the designing de- 
partment of Stephen Sanford & Sons. Mr. Reid's father, William, was born in Sped- 
.lock, Dumfries, Scotland, November 12, 1779, and sailed from Greenock June 1, 1802, 
arrived in New York August 8 the same year, and located in the town of Amsterdam, 
February 1, 180G ; he married for his first wife Sarah, sister of the late Benedict Arnold 
and had five children : Darwin E., James B., Louisa J., Minerva and Marion. Septem- 
ber 23, 1835, for his second wife he married Chloe Smith of Galway, and had three 
children, one died in infancy, two sons survive; W. Max and Myron W., who is a 
druggist in that town. Mr. Reid's father taught school the first four years after his 
arrival ; he was afterwards a merchant, justice of peace and held other offices. In Scot- 
land he had an acquaintance with Robert Burns, the Scottish Poet, who resided at 
Dumfries a portion of his life. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 115 

Riilison, Eleazer E., M. D., Amsterdam, was born on the 2(i of April, I8.55, in Parish, 
and was e(lucate<l in the pubhc schools and Mexico Academy and graduated from the 
Albany Medical College in 1881. He located in the city of Amsterdam and on the 
11th of March, 1882, married Adell E., second daughter of Lewis and Harriet Miller of 
Mexico, Oswego county. They have one daughter, Marion M. Dr. Rulison's faiher, 
Allen, was born in Herkimer county on the 2d of October, 1818, and married Emily 
Cornelia Brockway of Pari.sh. Tliey had four children : one son, Austin, died at ihe age 
of three years; Elbert T., Eleazer E., and Luman B , who is a physician in West Tr'oy. 
He married Ada Ogsbury of the city of Albany. They have one daughter, Adell. The 
three sons have been farmers, school teachers, and are now leading physicians in the 
several places where they reside. The doctor has been surgeon for the West Shore 
railway the past six years. 

Rubaok, Charles F., Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in Prussia, Feb- 
ruary 19, 1847, and is a son of Frederick and Mary (Wardell) Ruback of Prus^ia, who 
came to this country in 1862 and settled in West Galway. Charles, our subject, spent 
five years with Mr. Calderwood dressing glove leather. March G, 18G7, lie married 
Nellie Toungjohn, daughter of Garret and Mary (De Graff) Youngjolin. Alter his 
marriage he bought a place containing sixteen acres of land, which he kept liut five 
years and sold at a profit, buying then eighty-eight acres in the same town, where he 
lived ten years. During the time he owned the farm he bought a threshing machine, 
which he run »o successfully and miderstood so well that the manufacturers (who took 
the first premium on their machine at the Centennial Exposition) employed Mr. Bur- 
back to act as their representative to Prussia and Russia, and he has now in his posses- 
sion his passport, dated December 16, 1876, and signed by J. C. Bancroft, our minister 
to the German Empire at that time. The manufacturers sent three machines to Itu.ssia 
which Mr. Ruback set up and started. When we remember that at that time Rn.^sia 
was at war with Turkey, it was a dangerous position to be placed in, and the manu- 
facturers .showed great confidence in him, to send him on such a mission. Li 1882 he 
sold his farm at Galway and came to Hagaman's Mills, where he bought a house and 
store on one of the principal streets and started a harness .shop. He is the father of 
nine childien. only three of whom are now living : Emma J., now Mrs. Charles Fink 
of Hagaman's Mills, born January .30, 1868; Sophia E., now Mrs. Luther Sowle of 
Hagaman's Mills, born July 24, 1869; Mary Ellis, born February 10, 1878. Emma 
Fink is the mother of one child five years old. Mr. Ruback is a successful business 
manager and is building up a trade second to no other harness store in his vicinity. 

Roof Family, The. — The first settler of this family in America was Johannis RuefF 
(anglicized Roof). He was born at Duilack. Suabia, Germ.my, January 9, 1730, and 
married January 13, 1759, Anne Mair Leonhido, a native of Heidelberg. In 1759 they 
came to Philadelphia, and in 1760 removed to Fort Slanwix, now Rome. They re- 
mained there till 1777, when the fort was attacked and they came to Cansijoharie, 
where they both died. They had eight children, the four older ones having been born 
in Fort Stanwix and the others in Canajoharie. The fifth son, Andrew, was born in 
Canajoharie, July 1, 1785. He had two children, Catharine, who married Elijah Failing 
and died in Baldwinsville, and Josiah, born in Minden August 21, 1821, who married 



116 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Nancy, daughter of Peter Ehvood of Mindeii. They had twelve children : Peter 
Elwood, born November 15, 1843, died August 31, 18J8; Ann Maria, born May 24, 
1846, died August 31, 1848 ; Reuben, born June 10, 1848, studied civil engineering at 
Fort Edward Academy, graduated from the law department of the University of Michi- 
gan at Ann Arbor, in 1874; he came to Fort Plain in 1878, where he practiced law un- 
til his death September 27, 1885 ; Daniel, born January 24, 1850. died March 14, 1856; 
Mary Catharine, born January 10, 1852, wife of Daniel E. Nestell of Minden ; John A.; 
Homer, born November 17, 1855, resides in Frankfort ; Charles, born August 21, 
1857, resides at Supension Bridge; Ida, born July 24. 1860, wife of Byron C. 
Miller of Minden ; Lydia, born July 23, 1860, died March 15, 1861 ; Webster, 
born February 5, 1863, resides in Syracuse; Cora Dell, born September 15, 1865, 
wife of Eugene Smith of Alinden. Mrs. Roof died May 31, 1892, aged sixty-six 
years, ten months and ten days. John A., son of Josiah, was born in Minden, Octo- 
ber 11, 1853. His father was a farmer, and his education was limited to the winter 
terms of the district schools. At the age of sixteen years he turned his attention to 
cheesemaking, which he followed till 1879, when he became connected with the Orange 
County Milk Association, a stock company, which is owned principally by New York 
partners, and which manufactures condensed milk which is shipped to New York city 
in cans and retailed by the association's wagons in that city. Mr. Roof is a stockholder 
in that company and also holds the possition of superintendent. A Republican in poli- 
tics, he has also been trustee of the village of Fort Plain, and in 1892 was elected pres- 
ident. He married Emily, daughter of David Geesler of Fort Plam, and has 6ve chil- 
dren : Maude, Nellie, Guy, Harvey and John. 

Rapp, William C, Minden, was born in Canajoharie, December 10, 1853, and is the 
fourth son in a family of five sons of Daniel and Sarah J. (Failing) Rapp. His early 
life was spent on the farm, and he received only a common school education. He car- 
ried on farming until 1882, when he was employed at Fort Plain by the American Ex- 
press Company, and spent one year for them at Poughkeepsie, and about four years ago 
became superintendent of the Fort Plain cemetery, which position he now fills. He 
is a Republican in politics. He married Martha, daughter of William Tifl'any of Fort 
Plain, and has two children : Eula and Bertie. 

Rickard. Charles, Glen, v\'as born in Root, January 3, 1847, and is one of five chil- 
dren of Henry and Sarah Ellen (Abel) Rickard of 'Root, the others being Philip Abel, ' 
William Henry, Frederic (who died in childhood), and one sister, who died in infancy 
Charles married, October 29, 1873, Margaret Ann, one of six children of Abram and 
Catharine (Devendorf) Starin of Glen. The others were as follows : John H., Jacob 
A., Lizzie, wife of Douw Heagel, David H., and Levi A. Starin. Mr. and Mr.«. Rick- 
ard have two children, Clara Lynn and Maggie May Rickard. Mr. Rickard began in 
business in Fultonville in 1869, and in 1873 entered the drug business in that place 
where he has since remained. He has been one of the most successful business men in 
the locality, having for the last few years^turned his attention to real estate. He is 
now one of largest real estate owners in Fultonville. Mr. Rickard has also interested 
himself in the school, being a member of the school board when the new school-house 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 117 

was erei:ted, which is one of the best in the valley. He has also been president of the 
board of education, etc. 

Roser, Adam, Canajoharie, was born near Frankfort-on-the-Main, Germany, July 16, 
1823, and came to this country in 1850. He located in Canajoharie wheie liis first busi- 
ness was teaching music and as a leader of brass and string bands, which profession he 
followed in connection with his trade as cabinet maker for about thirty years. In 1852 
his brother Joseph came to this country, and as soon as they had accumulated money 
enough they formed a partnership in the furniture business, which they gradually in- 
creased until they were the leading establishment in that business in this section. Adam 
retired from the firm in 1887 and has since lived a retired life. He has held the office of 
trustee of the village for three years, being elected for two successive terms. In 1853 he 
married Julia Ker.schner, who was born in the same town in Germany. They had one son 
who died in infancy, and five daughters : Lena, wife of Frank Gesser, a draughtsman 
of Utica; Mary, died in November, 1886; Julia, wife of Voorhees Bush of Canajo- 
harie; Sarah, wife of William Knapp of Canajoharie; and Katherine, wife of F. L. 
Burton, jeweler, of Canajoharie. 

Richmond, Adelbert G., banker of Canajoharie, was born in DeRuyter, Madison county, 
on the 2'2d of January, 1838, and is a son of R. W. and Caroline Hart Richmond. The 
father was a dealer in live stock and came from Rhode Island and early settled in De 
Ruyter. Tlie Harts were among the earliest settlers of Madison county. Adelbert G. 
was educated at the village school and about 1856 entered the bank at Chittenango 
where he remained three years as teller. He then went to the Mohawk bank as teller 
for three years, when he went to Washington, being engaged in the treasury depart- 
ment from 1862 to 18G5. Returning to the Mohawk valley, he became the first cashier 
of the National Bank of Canajoharie, which place he still holds and at the same time is 
engaged in various enterprises. On the 15th of March, 1883, he married Helen A. 
Weaver of Canajoharie, by whom he has one daughter, Emily Adell, born on the 20th 
of June, 1884. Mr. Richmond is a Republican in politics, but prefers to give his entire 
time to the attention of his business affairs than to accept any office. He is an enthusi- 
ast in archeological research, and has a collection of about 20,000 .'specimens from nearly 
every State in the Union and many parts of Europe and the islands of the sea. He has 
been an extensive traveler in making his collections. He has recently built for hims-elf 
one of the finest residences in the Mohawk valley. 

Roser, Joseph, Canajoharie, was born at Frankfort-on-tlie-Main, Germany, Decem- 
ber 29, 1832, came to this country in 1852 and located in Canajoharie where he ha? 
since made his home. He was one of the three sons of a cabinet maker, who were all 
musicians, and each was taught his father's trade. Joseph, in company with his brother, 
Adam, started what is now one of the largest furniture and undertaking establishments 
in this town in 1856. Mr. Ro.»er at first met with many difficulties in his Ijusiness, but 
by persevering he surmounted these and an increase of trade has placed him in easy cir- 
cumstances. In 1869 he was elected on the Democratic ticket to the office of town 
clerk and was re-elected in 1870-71. He has also held the office of village trustee for 
two years. December 27, 1855, he married Sophia, daughter of Charles Scharff of this 



118 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

village, a native of G-ermany (Hmover). They have had five children, four of whom 
survive: Elizabeth, wife of Fred C. Leppert of Canajoharie ; Joseph A.; William J., of 
the firm of Roser & Burton, jewelers ; and Frederick C. Joseph Roser visited Germany, 
his native home, in 1882. 

Retallick, Joseph, Canajoharie, Mar.«hville p. o., was born in Cornwall, England, May 

29, 1831, and came to this country in 18:i2 with his parents, William and Charlotte (Den- 
nis) Retallick. They located fiist in West Troy, where William followed farming the 
rest of his life. He was killed by the cars on his eightieth birthday in April, 1856. They 
were the parents of five childi en, four of wliom are living. The early life of our subject 
vjras spent in West Troy. He was educaied in the common school, and early took up 
canaling as a means of livelihood, and by saving his earnings, when twenty years of age 
he had enough money to buy a boat of his own, and when he came to Canajoharie in 1862 
he owned three boats. That year he bought the farm of his present residence. This 
is a fine farm of 115 acres and one of the most beautiful homes in town. The princi- 
pal industry is the cultivation of hop.-J, of which Mr. Retallick has about thirty-five acres, 
employing about sixty-five workers in the hu.sy season. January 16, 1853, he married 
Melissa Ellis, daughter of Jo.'ieph H. and Perlina (Mills) Ellis of West Troy, and they 
have had eight children George H., born March 27, 1855; William E., born October 

30, 1857 ; Joseph E. and James W. (twin.s), born July 5, 1859, the latter dying aged 
twenty-two months ; Jame.s, born Seplember 22,1865; Freddie, born in 1863, who 
was killed September 13, 1874, by a runaway: Charles, born May 19, 1868; and Alfred, 
born December 9, 1876. Mr. and Mis. Retallick are active workers in church matters, 
and he is a trustee of the Marshville Evangelical church. Mr. Retallick is deserving of 
praise, for he began life under unfavorable circumstances, and is now one of the largest 
farmers and hop-growers in the county. He is the owner of 330 acres, divided into 
three farms, the old homestead, and George and William each conducting one. 

Robinson, Henry J., Canajoharij, Buel p. o., was born in Albany county, December 
1, 1800, and is a son of Anthony and Ann (Flagg) Robinson. The grandfather of our 
subject came to this country from England in company with Sir William Johnson; his 
name was Daniel Robinson and he was ihe father of three children, of whom Anthony 
was the only son. There were two daughters, both of whom were taken by the In- 
dians, and though their father spent two years searching for them they were never 
found. Anthony was born in Johnstown in 1775 ; was married in Schenectady to Ann 
Flagg in 1797 and they were the parents of six children, of whom three reached an 
adult age: Daniel, Mary Ann and Henry J., our subject. His early boyhood days were 
spent in Albany county. When he was ten years old his parents moved to Schoharie 
county, from there in 1810 Ihey moved to Duanesburg, and then to Albany, where 
Henry was married to Ellen Bullock of Bethlehem, October 12, 1831; she Uved but 
eight months after. In 1833 he moved to this county, buying a farm in company with 
his father, and in 1834 thi'y .sold it and bought the farm of his present residence, a fine 
place of 148 acres. December 3, 1834, he married Elizabeth Ann Sammons, and they 
have been the parents of seven children, six of whom are living: Ellen, wife of John 
Nevens of Amsterdam; Addie M. of Canajoharie; Henry K. of Galway ; Cornelius 
A., who owns the old homestead ; Samuel N. of Canajoharie ; and Mary M., wife of 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 119 

Densmore Campnell of Cherry Valley. Cornelius A. was married August 18, 1880, to 
Katie D. Fox. daughter of Oliver G. and Sarah (Coleman) Fox, and they are the 
parents of two children : Clarence N., born June 13, 1881 ; Raymond D., born Septem- 
ber 23, 1887. While Henry J. was living in Albany he followed carriage making, and 
in 1831 built the tender of the first locomotive ever run from Albany to Schenectady, 
and the first in the country. 

Rickard, Arthur, Palatine, was born in Palatine on the old homestead now owned by 
his brother John, December 1, 184S. He is a son of Josiah R. and Catherine L. Rick- 
ard, mentioned elsewhere in this book. He was raised on a faim and was educated at 
the common school. In 1868 he married Almina, daughter of Daniel and Catherine 
(Nellis) Saltsman. They have had four children : Estella, Jay D. (who died in infancy), 
Elsie C, and John F. Mr. Rickard is a Republican, a member of Fort Plain Lodge No. 
433 F. & A. M., of Mohawk Valley Lodge No. GG K. of H., and of Stone Arabia Grange 
No. 690. 

Rickard, John, Palatine, was born in Palatine, July 25, 1841. His father was Josiah 
Rickard, who married Catherine L. Nellis (born July 12, 1817); they had six sons and 
three daughters. His grandfather was Frederick Rickard, born in Palatine in 1878, 
(son of Lewis Rickard, who purchased the original farm). Frederick Rickard married 
Polly Snell and raised a faniily of live daughters and three sons. He died December 
19, 1868. Josiah Rickard was born in Palatine, June 17, 1813, received a common 
school education, and lived and died on the Rickard homestead. He and his wife were 
members of the Dutch Reformed church. He died in 1888 and his wife August 26, 
1879. John Rickard was brought up a farmer, and received a common school education. 
He married Fanny, daughter of Jacob and Hannah Phillips of Oneida county. Their 
children are Catherine H. and VVilmer J. Mrs. Rickard is a member of the M. E. 
Church. A great-uncle of the subject (John Rickard), born in 1783, owned a portion 
of Mr. Rickard's farm, which he gave to Josiah Rickard. He was a tailor, and died in 
Palatine in 1855. 

Runkle, Henry, Root, a son of Daniel and Sallie (Gordon) Runkle, was born Febru- 
ary 3, 1836, in Root. He attended the district school and the academy. At the age 
of thirty he took charge of his father's farm (which he now owns) containing originally 
220 acres. July 12, 1861, he married Elizabeth, a daughter of Richard and Sarah 
(Baird) Clute of Charleston. They have eight children : Sarah, wife of Melvin J. 
Hight ; Cornelius J., Lettie M., wife of Henry K. Ingersoll; William S., Catherine B., 
Lewis R., Irving H., and Frank E. He and his wife are both active members of the 
Presbyterian church. His grandfather, Peter Runkle, came from Holland and settled 
near Lyker, Montgomery county. He has the following children : John, Henry, 
Cornelius, Daniel, (Elizabeth, Maria and Catherine). Daniel, the father of Henry, was 
born October 22, 1798, in Root. He married Sallie, daughter of Peter and Phoebe 
Gordon, and they had six children : John D., Peter, Cornelius (deceased), Jacob G., 
Henry and Daniel. He died May 30, 1877 ; his wife died December 26, 1873. He 
was a Democrat in politics and a deacon and trustee of the Carlisle Presbyterian church 
many years. 



120 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Reynolds, Jacob, Root, was born in the town of Greenbush, Rensselaer county, 
February 16, 1828, and is a son of James and Hannah (Dennison) Reynolds. He re- 
ceived his education in the district schools and the Albany State Normal School, also 
at the Whitesboro Seminary, and began teaching at the age of eighteen years in the 
district school. He continued this for about ten years, spending his summers on the 
farm. He now owns a homestead of 131 acres. He married June 30, 1859, Agnes, 
daughter of David and Catherine (Baxter) Mereness, natives of Schoharie county, and 
they had four children : James M., who died aged five years ; Ettie C, died aged one 
year; Willie, died aged seven ; and Harvey, who is attending the Albany Business, 
School. Mr. Reynolds and wife are members of the Lutheran church. The grandfather 
of Jacob came from Ireland and settled in Rensselaer county, where he raised a large 
family of children. One son (the father of our subject) was also reared in Rensselaer 
county and learned the trade of blacksmith. In 1835 he came to Flat Creek and bought 
100 acres of the original Luke Wessell farm, where he died in March, 1876, aged eighty- 
three years. He was born in 1793. His wife was born in 1800 and died in 18G6. 
Their children were Margaret, Mary, George, Jacob, Martha, Matilda and Charles. 
Two are now living, Jacob and Matilda. 

Scott, Nelson, Amsterdam, was born ira the town of Amsterdam June 28, 1852, and 
is a son of Alexander and Louisa J. (Clisbe) Scott. His early life was spent at home 
and attending the district school until he was about seventeen, when he spent two winters 
at the Amsterdam Academy. In 1859 his parents bought the farm of 160 acres known 
as the old Bell farm, where Mr. Scott now lives. After the latter left school he assisted 
his father on the farm. December 28, 1875, he married Electa A., daughter of Stephen 
H. and Ester M. (Riggs) Collins. (See Collins Biog). They have been the parents of 
four children, two of whom are living : Charles W., born December 31, 1878. and Mary 
Alice, born March 9, 1888. Mr. Scott has been a successful farmer and has one of the 
best dairy farms in this section. Alexander (his father) came to this country from 
Scotland in 1839, when he was twenty-three years old. He was a very prominent and 
well-known man, having held the position of supervisor of the town of Amsterdam for 
seven consecutive years. He died September 3, 1885, leaving one other son besides 
Nelson, Rev. Willard Scott, pastor of the South Congregational church in Chicago. 
Mrs. Louisa J. Scott, mother of Nelson, was a daughter of Darius Clisbe, who came 
from New Jersey with his parents when but tliirteen years old. She died December 
24, 1880. In March, 1890, a subordinate grange of patrons of husbandry was organized 
in Hagaraan's Mills, in which Nelson Scott has taken a great interest, and has held the 
office of overseer for one year, being then elected master, which office he has since held. 
The Patrons Fire Relief Associasion is connected with the grange, of which he is 
director and treasurer. 

Sweatraan, Dr. Newton F., Amsterdam, was born March 28, 1850, in the town of 
Sharon, Schoharie county ; he was educated in the public schools and studied medicine 
with Dr. Van Deveer of Albany ; he graduated from the Albany Medical College in 
1872 and for fifteen years practiced at Fultonville, but in the spring of 1887 he came to 
Amsterdam. February 28, 1871, he married 'Sara, second daughter of Edward and 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 121 

Mnry A. Carey of Slonnsville, Rclioliarie comity ; they have one daughter, Clara D. 
Di-. Sweat mail is a member of the Montgomery County Medical Society. The ancestry 
of the family is Dutrh on both sides. 

Servi.ss, William. Amsteid.im, was born in Fiiltonville, on the 23d of November, 
1841. and wiis educated in the common schools and came to Amsterdam in 1873. He 
bon<rl,t the site of the Mndge Hollow flouring and saw-mills, afterwards a cider-mill 
■was aihled. This enterprise has since been conducted under the firm of Serviss & De 
Giaff. On tlie2Gth of January. 1871, he married Mary E.Williams of Florida, by whom 
lie had two suns: .Arihiir P. and Earl V. Mr. Serviss's father, Chelatt, was born in 
Floiida and married Christie McMiehael of the same town. They had five children. 
Mr. Serviss's great-grandfather was m the battle of Oriskany. 

Stains, Robert, Amsterdam, Rockton p. o., was born in Sterling.shire, Scotland, April 
2.5, 1840, and came to this country with his father, two brothers and five sisters in 1849. 
They settled in Schenectady where Robert attended the public schools, receiving a good 
business education. In 18.59 they moved to Hagaman's Mills where his father died in 
1889. November 1, 1805, he married Harriet D. Rowe, daughter of Henry and Martha 
G. (Ostrom) Rowe. In 1881 they moved to Rockton where he joined in partnership 
with C. D. Austin and built the knitting mill, the firm now being Austin, Stairs & Blau- 
velt. the latter joining them the next year. Mr. Stairs is the father of one child, Wil- 
liam Henry, born September 29, IN70. The firm is one of the most successful in the 
town of Amsterdam. Mr. Stairs has charge of the carding and his brother of the 
spinning. 

Shuler, Cholett, Amsterdam, one of the oldest residents of the county of Montgomery, 
was born in Florida, May 20. 1807, on the land known as the Shuler estate, which 
contained originally 640 acres, a part of 2,000 acres conveyed by Edward and Philip 
Harrison, and known as the Harrison patent. The survey was made in 1737 by Chris- 
topher Yates- The 640 acres were purchased from them by one Deboise. Deboise dy- 
ing, his widow became the v/ife of Lawrence Shuler, grandfather of Cholett. By him 
the land was parcelled off to hi.s several sons : John, father of our subject, Solomon, 
Lawrence, Jacob, and a small portion to one dau'jhter. The old homestead is still in 
the possession of the family and owned by Henry V. Shukr. The name of Shuler is 
one of the oldest in Montgomery county. Their ancestor, Lawrence Shuler, was a 
native of Luxembourg, Germany, born in 1736, and died in 1813 at the age of seventy- 
seven. He came to this country when a young man and located as aforesaid. Said 
estate came into po.ssession of his son John, father of Cholett, probably about 1789. 
John Shuler was born November 12, 1769, and lived to the ripe old age of eighty-nine. 
He was a man well informed in all the afl"airs of his day, and well known in public life. 
He was elected member of assembly September 26, 1814, and re-elected January 31, 
1815. He was a friend of Alexander Hamilton, and acquainted with Aaron Burr. He 
was present at the opening of the Erie canal. His wife's maiden name was Hannah 
Buck, daughter of Daniel Buck, a clergyman of Canaan, Mass. They were the parents 
of ten children, of whom only three are living: Adaline M. Wilcox, widow of the late 
Oliver L. Wilcox of Gasport; Caroline, wife of George A. Woolverton, banker of Al- 



122 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

I)any ; and Cholett. The latter was born May 20, 1807, making him in his eighty-sixth 
year. He remained on the old Shuler homestead until about twenty-one years of age, 
when he joined his brother Jacob in Schoharie county, in running a farm for a few 
years. In 1831 he married Ann Mallery of Florida, daughter of David and Ruth 
(Tucker) Mallery. They then came to Amsterdam and he purchased the farm near 
there known as the Mallery farm, and later, property at Ames. Between these inter- 
ests his life was spent up to about twenty-five years ago, when he retired to Amster- 
dam, leaving his interests in the hands of his sons and resided there until the death of 
his wife in 1887, since which time he has been with his son Darwin, on the old Mallery 
'homestead. Mr. and Mrs. Shuler were the parents of four children, of whom two are 
living: David M., born August 5, 1834, and Darwin A., born May 6, 1836. David M. 
married Esther E. Lattimer of Canajoharie in 1855, and they reside at Ames. Darwin 
A. married Ann Eliza, daughter of Joshua and Phoebe (Bostwicki Wilde, in 1865. 
They have two children, Ida and William. 

Sowle, Isaac C, Amsterdam, was born in Perth July 25, 1842, and is a son of Jacob 
and Thirza (Collins) Soule. His early life was spent in Fulton county but in 1858 his 
.parents came to Amsterdam where Isaac attended the public schools. After leaving 
school in 1859 he helped his father on the farm, while his five sisters, Abbie C, Han- 
nah A., Mary E., Hester L., and Margaret attended to the household duties. February 
"26, 1868. he married Isabella McQueen of Perth, who was born February 22, 1843. 
They are the parents of three living children : Agnes L., born May 14, 1869; Cora B., 
born October 27, 1870; and Margaret E., born November 12, 1874. Isaac, our subject, 
is living on the farm he succeeded to at the death of his father, which occurred May 3, 
1869. He is what is called a successful farmer, living in a beautiful home surrounded 
by good out-buildings, and considering the many reverses he has had, very prosperous. 
He has never enjoyed very good health and the burning of his barns in 1885 was quite 
a severe loss to him. 

Suits, Nicholas J., Amsterdam, was born on the 6th of June, 1850, in Palatine, and 
was educated in the district schools. For many years he was a cheeseraaker b}' occu- 
pation, but in the year 1881 he came to Amsterdam and frr six years conducted the 
■' Suits Hotel " in the fifth ward. He is now in the fresh meat business in company 
with Harvey PettingiU under the firm of Suits & Pettingill. On the 24th of September, 
1884, he married Hepsibah, second daughter of Richard W. Sutton of this city. They 
have six children, three sons and three daughters: Richard J., Albert, Harry, Lettie, 
.lesse and Mabel C. They all died at various ages under two years except the youngest, 
Mabel C. Mr. Suit's father, John, was born at the old home in Palatine in the year 
1815. He married Maria Bell of the town of Glenville, and had five children by his 
first wife, as follows: Susan, William H., Delos M., Margaret A. and Nicholas J. For 
his second wife he married Laney Sinous. They had six children. Mr. Suits's grand- 
father, Nicholas Suits, was a soldier in the revolutionary war. Mr. Suits is a member 
of the Improved Order of Red Men, Kennyetto Tribe No. 110 of Amsterdam. 

Sutton, Richard W., Amsterdam, was born in the county of Norfolk, England, on 
the 3d of January, 1842, and married Clara A. Sawyer of the county of Suflfolk, Eng- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 123 

land. They had three children: Kate R., TTephzibah A., now living, and Edward W. 
G., who died in infancy. On the 21,st of Decenjber, 1866, Mr. Sutton came to the 
United States with his wife and thiee children and landed in New York and located at 
Amsterdam. In 1875 he went to California, returning in 1876. November 10, 1877, 
he became superintendent of Green Hill cemetery. He is a member of the A. 0. U. W. 
No. 209, and of the Amsterdam lodge of T. 0. 0. F. No. 134, and also of Kennyetto 
Tribe, I. 0. R. M. No. 110. Mrs. Sutton died on the 28th of November, 1891. 

Stover, George B., Amsterdam, was born in Cobleskill on the 4th of October, 1848, 
aed was educated in the common schools and Canandaipua Academy. In early life he 
tiras a clerk, afterwards a merchant, and in the year 188G he became a manufacturer. 
He is now manager and part owner of the Metropolitan knitting mills under the firm 
of W. R. McCowatt& Co. On the 2:^d of October, 1872, he married Josephine, old- 
est daughter of Jacob and Mary Van Brocklin of thi.s place. They have four sons: Ed- 
ward J., Charles F., George B., jr., and Raymond Cady. Mr. Stover'.s father, Martin 
J., was born in Pittson, Rensselaer county, in the year 1807, and was educated in the 
public schools and in Hartwick Seminary for the ministry. He was an able preacher, 
and married Lydia Hartman of Dansville, Livingston county. They had six cliildren'; 
three only survive : Martin L , George B. and Cliarles. 

Shuler, Isaac Clizbee, Amsterdam, was boin in the town of Amsterdam in 1823 ; he 
received a common school and academic education ; he was an inventor and manufac- 
turer, the metallic casket and the terra ootta receiving vault were his inventions. Oc- 
tober 11, 1881, he married EMzabeih Naomie, second daughter of John E. C. and Mary 
(Bombar) Booth, formerly of England, but tlien of Johnstown. They had one daugh- 
ter, Elizabeth Clizbee. Mr. Shuler liied October 14, 1890. Mrs. Shuler and daughter 
survive. The ancestry of the family on the paternal side is German and the maternal 
side English. 

Spore, Peter P., Amsterdam, was born in Florida, December 2.5, 1824, and was edu- 
cated in the public schools; in early life he worked on the farm and came from Crane's 
Village to Amsterdam in 1850; he began to learn the carpenter's trade in 1844 and 
afterwards the mill-wright's trade, which he followed in Kellogg & Miller's linseed oil 
factory for thirteen years. December 9, 1852, he married Pamelia. second daughter of 
Thomas and Catherine McMaster of Florida ; they have had four children, one son and 
three daughters: Myron W., who married Ellen Donlan ; they had two children, Harry 
P. and Frank W.; Myron W. died May 25, 1885, aged thirty-two years; Anna H., 
who married Franklin Winslow; they had two'chilchen, Edith A. and Madison; Mrs. 
Winslow died April 15, 1888, and the little boy died August 15, 1885, and the little 
girl June 19, 1888; Mary J. and Laura died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Spore are mem- 
bers of the Second Presbyterian chunh. 

Sweet, Waterman J., Amsterdam, was born at the old home in Florida, two miles 
and a half northwest of Minaville, on the 27th of December, 1840, and was educated 
in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. He has always been a farmer and has 
now retired and lives in the Fiflli ward. He has been asse.ssor of his town six years. 
On the 19th of December, 1865, he married Emily, oldest daughter of Peter and Mar- 



124 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

tha M. Williams of his iiative town. They have two childrrii, a .-^01) and a daii};l'ler: 
Leonard, who married Catherine B., .second daughter of Spencer and Angnsia I'aik 
Vati Deveer of his native town ; and Jennie M. who results wiih her parents. Mr. 
Sweet's father, Leonard, was born on the i8th day of September, 17'JG, in Florida, and 
was a farmer by occupation. He married twice; fir.st to Sally Jl. Pierce by w honi lie 
liad six children: Fanny M., Eliza, Charlotte A., Sarah J., William A., and Adeline. 
For his second wife he married Su.-:an Becker. They had four children: Margaret, 
Susan C, Helen, and Waterman J. 

Snell, James R., Amsterdam, was born on the oth of December, 1841, in Palatine, 
and was educated in the public schools and old Anis-teidam Aoadenv. In i arly lile he 
was a railway man in California. Upon his return SIcDonaid, O'Brien & Snell built 
the Interior knitting mills. He was the le.sfee of the hor.'^e railway of the city of Am- 
sterdam for thirteen years. For two years since it became an electric street railway, 
he has been the superintendent and is now the general manager. He has been presi- 
dent of the board of water commissioners for nine years and was elected meniV)er of 
the state legislature in 1882 and 1883, and was the first treasurer of the city of AnK-^ler- 
<iam. On the 28th of May, 1870, he ma»ried Lucy S., only daughter of George W- 
and Mary Striker of this place. They had six children, three sons died in infancy, 
three daughters survive : Ella A., Julia I., and Florence M. His father, Dr. Jacob 
Snell, was born in the town of Palatine and was educated in the piactice of medicine. 
In 1841 he came to Port Jackson and was a succe.ssiful practioner in the cily until his 
death. He married Mary Rickard of his native town, by whom he had five children, 
two sons and three daughters: Arie B., Mary E., Ella A., who died young, Ella A. No. 
2, and James R. The ancestry of the family is German. 

Snyder, William E., Amsterdam, was born in Glastonbury, Conn., on the 15th of 
January, 1842, and was educated in the Manchester Academy, and graduated in den- 
tistry in 1863 from Middletown, Conn. He was married twice, first in 1865 to Maitha. 
A. Emely of Glastonbury, by whom he had three children, all dead. Mrs. Snyder died 
in 1872. For his second wife he married in 1875 Alberta Parkhill, who was born in 
Amsterdam. They reside here in summer and winters in Florida. His father (David) 
was born near Amsterdam in the year 1813, and was a woolen manufacturer and moved 
to Glastonbury, Conn., where he married Sophronia Hurlbut in 1840. They had three 
children, only William E. survived. 

Schuyler, John D., Amsterdam, was born on the 22d of August, 1842, in Florida, and 
was educated in the common schools a'nd Amsterdam Academy. In early life he was 
a farmer, and came to Amsterdam in the year 1877, and was elected alderman in the 
years 1886-1887. In the fall of 1888 he was elected sheriff of the county and served 
with signal ability. On the 14th of September, 1872, he married Annie M., fourth 
daughter of James and Mallisa J. (Pulling) Stewart. Mr. Schuyler's father was born in 
Florida in 1794, and married Jemima Dorn of his native town. They had twelve 
children ; six sons and six daughters : Howard, who died in infancy ; James, Eleanor, 
Margaret, Catherine, Jacob, Eveline, Harriet N., John D., Mary A., Andrew J., and 
Frank H. Jeremiah Schuyler, John's father, died on the 10th of January, 1886, and 



FAMILY SKETCnES. 125 

his mother ilied on the oth of Jaiiuaiy, 1882. General Scliiiyler was from this family, 
and all sprang from one source, from the two that came from Hollaml. The ancestry 
of the family is Dutch and German. 

Simmons, Menzo, Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in Sharon, May 4, 
I82i(, and is a son of Best and Gertrude (Sonjmers) Sinjmons. Best Simmons (father 
of our suhject) was a son of Martin Simmons, who came from Hamburg in 1708 when 
he was but fifteen years old, and fettled in Schoharie county. He was the father of 
eight children : John, Sophrenus, Peter, Best, Alexander, Anthony, Maria, and Betsey. 
Best (father of our subject; was born in March, 18(12. Ilewas the father of six children, 
of whom four are living: Peter, who served in the Twenty-first Refjiment ti.Y. Vol- 
unteers; Alexander, who served in the same regiment ; Nancy, now married and living 
in Lockport ; and Menzo. Menzo was educated in the village school, and at tlie age 
of eleven he left home to work his own way in the world, as he has always done. Jan. 
uary 8, 18.55, he married Elizabeth Banker of Otsego county, but now of Gloversvjile. 
They are the parents of six children: Charles II., Gertrude Ilagaman, Frank, Carrie 
Kennedy, Clark and Clyde. 

Swart, Daniel, Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. o., was born in tlie town of Amster- 
dam, February 6, 1822, and is a son of Albert and Elizabeth (Swart) Swart. Albert, 
the father, was born in Amsterdam in August, 1702, a son of William Swart;, born May 
22, 1707, who was also born iu Montgomery county. Daniel, our subject, was educated 
like most of the older ones, in the district schools of this town. His father was a farm- 
er, and lie helped on the farm until he was twenty-three, when he married Sarah A. 
Shipley, daughter of Thomas and Lydia (Steele) Shipley of Florida. Her father was 
formerly of England and her mother from Vermont. He assisted others on their farms 
for about ten years, when he bought a place in Herkimer where he went into the broom 
corn culture. In 1858 he sold this place and returned to Amsterdam, where lie went 
into the butchermg bu.siness and bought a farm of twenty acres on Manny's Road. It 
was a very successful business, for in five years he made money enough to pay the 
difference in an exchange for the home of seventy acres wlieie they now live. They 
are the parents of only one child, Mary J., now Mrs. Luther Bovee, of Amsterdam 
town, wlio was born April 27, 1847. Her daughter, Ida May Carel, makes her liome 
with Mr. Swart. 

Stewart, John D., Amsterdam, was born May .5, 1859, on the farm where he now 
resides. He was a son of Duncan and Elizabeth Stewarl, and brother of Archie Ste- 
wart, who lives with him on the farm. Their grandfather came to this country in 1770 
and settled in Perth, wliere Duncan (the father of John D.) was born, but lived there 
only a year when his father bought the farm of 218 acres where his descendants have 
ever since lived. The family is one of the oldest in the county and its members have 
repeatedly held oflices of trust, showing their influence and popularity. John D. was 
married to Marilla Cole of Hagaman's Mills, December 23, 1801. Duncan, iheir father, 
died September .5, 1883, aged ninety -two years. Mrs. Elizabeth Stewart still lives at 
the age of sixty-seven. The Stewart family have always been very successful farm- 
-ers. When they first settled here it was almost a wilderness, but by hard work and 



126 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

close attention, they have made it wliat it now is, a very large level, and almost clear 
of wood, dairy farm. 

Christman, Raymond, Amsterdam, was born in the town of Palatine on the 5th of 
December, 1858, and moved to Amsterdam with his parents when he was ten years 
old. He was educated in the public schools and in Amsterdam Academy. At the age 
of thirteen he began the art of printing, and in the year 1883 he became city editor of 
JTie Daily Remrikr. and a correspondent to several other daily papers, which continued 
until August 4, 1884. He then formed a partnership with Thomas Liddle in the coal 
business which existed until January, 1887, when they dissolved by mutual consent, 
Mr. Christman purchasing his interest. This was the first coal-yard started in Amster- 
dam, and was begun by John McClumpha at a time when one boat load of coal more 
than supplied the whole town. Mr. Christman's yard at Railway place is now second 
to none in the valley with its tonnage, equipment and patronage. He has just returned 
from a European trip which pleased him very much, but he now enjoys his home bet- 
ter than ever. On the 12th of August, 1880, he married Hattie T., only daughter and 
child of Moses T. and Matilda Heagle Kehoe of Amsterdam. Mr. Christman's father 
(Uriah) was born in Palatine, and married Nancy Wick of his native town. They had 
nine children, three sons and six daughters, six survive: Alary, wife of Henry Dillen- 
beck of Pilatme : Catherine, wife of J. E. Dygert of Fort Plain ; Martha, wife of By- 
ron A. Klock of Little Falls; Ella, wife of Simon P. Bandee of this city; Raymond 
and John T. of Amsterdam. Mr. Christman studied law for a time with Judge Z. S. 
Weslbrook. He is a descendant of John Trumbull, former governor of Connecticut. 

Shuler, Freman, Florida, one of three children of Daniel and Catherine (Van Der- 
veer) Shuler, was born in Florida on the 12th of September, 18.S5. His father, Daniel, 
was born in Florida in 1803, as was also his grandfather, John Shuler. His great- 
grandfather, Lawrence Shuler, came from Germany and settled in the town early in its 
history, selling himself for his passage, as was the custom of many in those days. Fre- 
man Shuler was married in the year 1862 to Mary A. Young of the same town. They 
have two sons, William H. and Daniel, both living at home, and two daughters, Mrs. 
Carrie A. Jacoby of Amsterdam, and Mrs. Anna E. McClumpha of Florida. 

Swart, Cornelius, Florida, was born in Florida June 30, 1814. His father, Jellis, 
was also a native of the town, his mother, Hester (Mabee) Swart, being a native of 
Rotterdam. His grandfather, Tunis Swart, died in Florida, but his birthplace is not 
known. Cornelius Swart married, in 1835, Jane Peek of Florida, by whom he had five 
children. She died in 1846, and he married, in 1848, Jane E., daughter of Robert and 
Rebecca (Pierce) Casey of Florida, by whom he has three children : George Swart of 
Hot Springs, Ark; Hetty, Mrs. James G. Campbell of Charlton; and Alice, living at 
home. Robert Casey was born in England. His parents came to this country when 
he was seven years of age. He was a soldier in the revolutionary army for seven j-ears 
and five months. Mrs. Swart was born in Florida on November 6, 1812, and was one 
of twelve children. 

Schuyler, Albert, Florida, only son of Hiram and Elizabeth (Nare) Schuyler, was 
born in Mohawk November 6, 1850. Hiram (his father) was born in the same town, 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 127 

March 7, 1830, and is one of nine children. January 1, 1849 he married Elizabetk 
Nare, daughter of Zachariah and Catharine (Necker) Nare of Mohawk. Richard 
Schuyler, the grandfather, was born in Florida and moved to Mohawk in early life, 
his wife being Catharine McMaster of Fonda. In October, 1861, Albert Schuyler mar- 
ried Mary E., daughter of John and Lucretia (Staley) Kelley of Florida. They have 
four children : Fannie B., Elizabeth, Mary, and John. Mr. Schuyler has lived upon the 
farm which he now occupies since he was six months old. He is at the present time 
filling the office of town clerk. 

Schuyler, Thomas B., Florida, one of three children of William R. and Margaret 
(Lockwood) Schuyler, was born in Florida, October 26, 1857. His sister, Mrs. Eleanor 
Brown, resides in Minaville; the other sister, Mrs. Eva Jeanette Schuyler, resides in 
Amsterdam. Thomas E. was married. May 31, 1882, to Emma Kelly, one of five chil- 
dren of John and Lucretia (Staley) Kelly. Her sister, Mrs. Albert Schuyler, lives ia 
Florida, her two brothers and one sister being dead. They have three boys : Willie, 
Howard and Albert. Mr. Schuyler has lived for ten years upon the farm which he now 
owns, and which is noted for its very fine apple orchard. His ancestor, Thomas Schuy- 
ler, came to this town from New Jersey. 

Schuyler, Andrew J., Florida, is one of eleven children of Jeremiah and Jemima 
(Dorn) Schuyler, and was born on the old Schuyler homestead, July 24, 1846. Jere- 
miah, the father, was born in Florida November 20, 1794, and died at the age of ninety- 
two. Jemima Dorn (the mother) was born May 19, 1808, on the farm now occupied 
by our subject. The latter has three brothers living : Jacob, John and Frank, all resi- 
dents of Amsterdam, one brother being deceased. He has had six sisters: Eleanor, 
Catharine (Mrs. Hiram Hubbs of Amsterdam), both deceased; Evaline, Harriet (Mrs. 
James Blood of Amsterdam), Augusta (Mrs. C. J. Hamlin), and Margaret (Mrs. Vander 
Volgan). Andrew J. Schuyler married, on September 23, 1874, Sarah E., one of ten 
children of Winslow and Elizabeth (Buchanan) Sterling of Mohawk. The others were 
as follows: Henrietta (Mrs. A. J. Kline), Bmna (Mrs. George Holton), Libbie (Mrs, 
John Bcker), Stella (Mrs. Simon Putnam), Nettie, -John and Winslow, all living; also 
Mary and James, deceased. Andrew J. and Sarah E. Schuyler have ten children : 
Jerry Hamlin, Hiram Hubbs, Winslow H., Clarence E., Walter J., Luella, Frank H., 
Arthur W., Andrew J., jr., and Roy Augustus. Jerry H., the oldest, is living in Ver- 
mont, the others are at home upon the farm. Mr. Schuyler has always lived here, and 
is road commissioner of the town. 

Scott, Barney, Minden, was born in Fort Plain, March 17, 1829. His father died 
when he was nine months old ; his step-father was engaged in farming, also running a 
saw and grist-mill, and the step-.son in early life became connected with these indus- 
trie.s. He went to Omaha, Neb., in 1857, and afterwards to Council Bluffs, in which 
latter place he was mayor, sheriff and also postmaster. His experience in Council 
BlufTs as sheriff was most exciting, having been shot three times by Indians while in 
pursuit of them. Returning east in 1859, he went to California and engaged in mining, 
but comeback in three years. He had accumulated a fortune, but the steamer on which 
ie sailed was blown up in mid-ocean, and he lost all. He came ashore at Point Con- 



128 HISTORY 01" MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ception and finally reached home, liis health much impaired. After a rest of two year* 
he purchased the 'bus line in Fort Plain, which he ran for live years. Since this time- 
he has engaged in the coal and agricultural implements business and in the manufacture 
of paper boxes. In 1891 he became a resident of Palatme. He is a Republican ir> 
politics. He married Nancy Catharme Yerdon and they have two children. Charles and 
Lizzie. Charles Scott was born in Fort Plain, Octolier IS, 18C1. He graduated from 
the Clinton Liberal Institute in 1882. He then became a clerk for his fatJier in the 
coal and agricultural implements business, and in 1885 was admitted as a partner, the 
firm being B. Scott <fe Son, which continued until 18SS. The year following they en- 
gaged in the manufacture of paper boxes, which they disposed of to Little Falls par- 
ties. Charles Scott then obtained a contract from the village of Fort Plain for electric 
lights, and established a plant of the Thompson-Houston system, which after sixty 
days he disposed of to parties interested in the Fort Plain Gas Light Company. In all 
the village enterprises Mr. Scott has taken a prominent part, and success has always 
crowned his efibrts. He then weut to Newark, N. J., and for three years and a half 
was engaged iu the manufacture of paper boxes. Returning to Fort Plain he again be- 
came interested in the coal and agricultural implements business, in which he is now 
engaged. He is a Republican, and married Clara C, daughter of A. J. AYagner of Fort 
Plain, and they have one child, Marion. 

Smith, John, Hallsville. — The emigrant ancestor and grandfather of this gentleman 
was Johannes Smith, a Hollander who came to this country as an officer in General 
Burgoyne's army. After Burgoyne's surrender he came to Stark, which was tlien in 
Montgomery county, now Herkimer, where he married a Miss Bassinger. They had a 
son Frederick, who was born November 26, 1779, and married iu 1801 Mrs. Sarah 
Thayer, born Johnson. They had nine children: Mary, who died aged three years; 
Margaret, who married Julius Milts and died in Illinois; John; Frederick, who died 
young; Elizabeth, married Patrick McCraith and died in Fort Plain; Richard, who 
died in Mexico ; Peter, who resides in Stark ; Moses, died at Fort Plain ; and Julia, 
died young. Frederick, the father, died June 29, 1865. John, of the above family, 
was born in Stark, March 6, 1806, and married November 30, 1826. Ann Eliza, daugh- 
ter of Robert Hall She was Ixirn in Minden, August 5, 1808, and died in Uiat town, 
April 13, 1885. Their children were : Robert, Maria and Sophia, twins, who died 
young; Frederick, born July 29, 1830, died young ; Sarah, born November 13, 1831, 
married September 22, 1852, David B. Elwood, and died October 1, 1855; Nancy, born 
December 23, 1833, died aged five years; Martha, born February 4. 1836, diad aged 
three years ; and Moses. At the age of ten years John Smitli was hired out by his 
parents until he became of age. Arrived at his majority, he turned his attention to 
mercantile business and opened a store at Starkville, which he carried on eight years. 
He also kept a hotel in that village for five years, and in the spring of 1834 removed 
to Minden and turned his attention to farming. He also conducted a saw and grist-mill, 
and at one time a distillery. In politics a Democrat, he has been justice of the peace 
in Herkimer county, and has held several other town offices. Robert, tlie oldest of the 
above f.imily, was born in Starkville, September 24, 1827, and married Martha Zoller. 
They had six children : Charles, born May 4, 1857, died at Cazenovia Seminary Feb- 



FA^^ILY SKETCHES. 129 

ruary 7, 1874 ; Fred J., born May 27, 1856, resides at Lockport ; John I., horn March 
4, 1863, died November 1, 1871 ; Willard R., born June 22, 1872, died at Kiilgers 
College, N. J., June 2, 1891 ; Robert Z., born ^Vbruary 22, 1875 ; and Claude A., born 
February 16, 1882. Moses, youngest son of John Smith, was born in Minden, Octo- 
ber 7, 183i), and married Helen, daughter of D. D. Ehvood of Stark. They liave two 
children: Sarah G., born August 7, 1864 ; and Nellie T., born April li), 186R, wife of 
Harvey C. Diefendorf of Fort Plain. 

Shults, Dewitt Clinton, Minden, was born in Palatine, January 11, 1836, and is the 
oldest son in a family of five children of Alexander and Lucinda ( Wagner ) Sluiltt;. 
After attending the district scliools he went to Alfred Academy at Alfred Center for 
two years, and Lima Seminary at Lima for one year. Returning home, his inlitilion 
was to become a student in the Fort Plain Seminary, but he changed his mind and com- 
menced to read law with Judge Jacob Wendell. He was admitted to the bar in May, 
1862, and in September of that year was appointed U. S. assistant assessor for internal 
revenue, the district at that time comprising Minden and St. Johnsville; aiterward.< 
Palatine and Canajoharie were added, and subsequently the entire county. Mr. Shults 
retained this position until 1873, when he commenced the practice of law at Fori Phiin. 
Soon after this he formed a partnership with Peter G. Webster and H. V. l!(ii>t, llie 
firm being Webster, Shults & Borst. This partnership was dissolved in three yeais 
and the business was continued by Shults & Borst until January 1, 1888, when the lat- 
ter retired owing to his election as county judge and surrogate. Mr. Shults's practice is 
principally confined to the surrogate's court. A Republican in politics, he has been for 
twelve years justice of the peace; president of the village one year, and trustee six or 
eight years. He married Aurelia L., daughter of Stickney J. Dygert of Miiuliii. and 
has one child living, William D., assistant secretary and manager of the Union I.ciigui- 
club of San Francisco, Cal. 

Shinaman, Henry Ernest, Minden, was born in Mar.shville, town of Cannjoharie, 
August 17, 1852, and is the oldest son in a family of seven children of Henry and Car- 
oline (Martin) Shinaman. His father was a blacksmith by trade, running a sniall fium 
along with his blacksmith shop, and Mr. Shinaman's education was limited to the com- 
mon schools of his native town. In 1872 he came to Fori Plain and was for a ycarinid 
a half employed in the grocery store of James Hess. Returning to Canajoharie, he was 
for three months in Jacob Hammersmith's grocery store, but ow'ing to ill health, hewii.'s 
for a time obliged to abandon indoor work. Altera short rest, however, he rchiimd 
to Canajoharie and entered the employ of Soules & Robinson, grocers, for six nioiiilj.s 
then going lo Rome where he was employed for three months by John H, Smilli in a 
bakery and confectionery store. Thence he went to Ilion to study telegrajihy ; re- 
maining there four months, he returned to Fort Plain and there entered the Wtslirn 
Union telegraph office (at that time managed by George C. Wood) where he rcniamcil 
six months. He was next employed at Ilion for three months by the N. Y. C. & II R. 
RR. Co. as baggage master and assistant clerk. From Ilion he went to Spraker's Basin 
where he was employed by John Wetterau in a grocery store until the death ol his 
father in 1874, when he returned to his native town to assist in the support of the fam- 



130 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ily, and engaged in farming from that time until 1887. In the latter year he came to 
Fort Plain and bought an interest in his pre.«ent drug store, having as a partner H. Q. 
Martin. This continued until 1889 when Mr. Martin's death occurred, and Mr. Shinaman 
purchased the entire stock, and hag since conducted the business alone. Progressive 
yet painstaking in hi.« business methods, Mr. Shinaman is rapidly winning an enviable 
position among the leading business men of this locality. In politics he is a staunch 
Republican, but has never aspired to public office. He married Mary L., daughter of 
Christopher and Lydia Ottman of Root in 1885, and they have one child, Caroline Ada. 

Snyder, Peter W., Minden, was born in Minden February 15, 1810. His grandfather, 
Peter Snyder, came from the eastern part of New York, near Greenbush, and settled 
near Frey's Bush on the farm formerl}' owned by the late Peter Fake. Of his children, 
William married Maria Yerdon, and had these children: Polly, who married George 
Pickard, and died in Minden ; Peter W., Christian, who died in Minden ; Jacob, resides 
at Grattan, Mich. ; Lucy, married Jacob Nestle, and died in Minden ; Kate, wife of 
George Carr of Paw Paw, Mich. ; Lany, wife of Solomon Alter of Hessville ; Julia, 
wife of Jonathan Ellison of Ionia, Mich. ; and Jonas, a resident of Michigan. William 
Snyder died at Frey's Bush April 14 1865, aged eighty-four years. Peter W., the 
oldest son of the above family, learned the trade of carpenter, and was engaged in that 
ira^iness for over thirty years. He located on his present farm in 1854. He married 
Maria, daughter of Isaac and Laura (Robinson) Miller. They have had seven children : 
Laura A., widow of David H. Minckler, who rei-ides at Rochester; John W., who 
died at Herkimer ; Nathan H. ; Luthera Elizabeth, who married David Becker and 
died at Jeffersonville, Ind. ; David W., superintendent of Newport and Poland railroad, 
was killed in an accident at Herkimer ; Albert Parker and Alfred Parkus (twins), the 
former being a farmer in Charleston and the latter also a farmer in Middlefield. 

Shelp, M. Mount, Glen, was born in Glen May 24, 1846, he being one of eight children 
of James Nelson and Elizabeth Ann (Mount) Shelp of Glen, the others being Amelia 
(Mrs. Wm. Uoft") ; James H., dead; Mary (Mrs. David Vedder) ; Lydia (Mrs. Jacob 
Dievendorf) ; Anna C. (Mrs. Patton) ; Benjamin V. V. and Lemuel W. Shelp. The 
father (James Nelson) was born on the 4th of December, 1811, he being one of twelve 
children of Henry, born July 30, 1T89, and Lydia (Parks) Shelp, who was born on the 
9th of September, 1794, they being both natives of Glen. The great-grandfather (^Henry 
Shelp) and father of the last one mentioned, was born in Holland, emigrating to this 
country in early life and settling in what is now the town of Glen, very early in its 
history. M. Mount Shelp was married February 1, 1871, to Heppie A. Baird, one of 
three children of William and Malina (Abel) Baird of Glen, the others being William 
Hoagland Baird and Mary Ellen (Mrs. John H. Serviss). They have one son, Willis 
Baird Shelp. 

Schuyler, George S., Glen, who was born in Glen February 22, 1818, was one of the 
five children of Jacob and Mary (Serviss) Schuyler of Florida. The others were: 
Mary A., wife of Stephen Ostrom (deceased), James, Jacob and William. Jacob, the 
father, was born in New Jersey and came to Florida in early life. His father (also 
named Jacob) was born (it is thought) in Holland, emigrating to New Jersey when 
<iuite young. George S. Schuyler married first, Clarissa Van Schaick of Glen, one 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 131 

of seven children of Thomas and Anna (Hand) Van Schaick. They had six children: 
Jacob of Dakota; Henry Newton of Illinois; P'rederick, Sarah, wife of Reuben De- 
vendorf; Antoinnette, wife of Adolphus Perrine; and Anna, wife of Abram Mabee. 
Mr. Schuyler married second, Anna Olin of Florida, and one son, Frank, survives from 
this marriage. 

Starin, Levi A., Glen, one of six children of Abram and Catherine (Devendorf) Starin 
of Glen, was born July 11, 1^46, the others being John (dead), Jacob (dead), David H., 
Elizabeth, and Margaret. Abram Starm, his father, was born on the homestead, now, 
owned by Levi A., October 10, 1803; his mother being a daughter of Henry I. and 
•Jane (Lyker) Devendorf. His grandfather, John F. Starin, wa.^ also born on the home- 
stead which has been in the f^miily smce the revolution. He was married June 9, 
1870, to Martha, a daughter of Barney and Sarah (Voshurgh) Gardinier of Fultonville, 
slie bemg one of five children. They have three children: Abram B., Josie C, and 
Frank Leroy Starin. 

Starin, Mrs. Elizabeth E., Glen, widow of Jacob H. Starin, was born in Glen, being one 
of nine children of Peter and Nancy (Leonardson) Van Evera ; he being a native of 
Mapletown, and she having been born in Yatesville, now Downing Her grandfather, 
John R. Van Evera, was also born in Mapletown, his ancestors coming here from Hol- 
land. She was married on the 14th of February. 1854, to Jacob H. Starin, one of six 
children of Abram and Catherine (Devendorf) Starin of Glen ; the others being John 
H., Lizzie, now Mrs. Douw Heagel; David H., Margaret, now Mrs. Chas. Riokard ; and 
Levi A. Starin. She has one daiigliter, Jennie, now Mrs. Oscar F. Conable of Fulton- 
ville. Jacob H. Starin, her husband, died here in 1883. Mr.s. Starin has in her pos- 
ses.sion a very interesting heir- loom, an old fashioned clock, in good running order, 
which was brought from Holland by her preat-2reat-grandmoiher Bennett, more than 
200 years ago, who came to take possession of 1,000 acres of land in the present town 
of Root. 

Sticht, Christopher, Canajoharie, was born in Germany, November 4, 1F40, and came 
to this country in November, 1854. He located at Canajoharie on his arrival, and .spent 
four years with his brother, John M., learning the boot and .shoe business. He then 
went to Ohio where he spent about three years in Ashtabula and Akron. Aprd 10, 
1861, he enlisted in Company K, 19th Ohio three months volunteers from Akron, with 
which regnnent he spent the full term of enlistment, returning .shortly after being dis- 
charged to Canajoharie. Here he joined his brother in the boot and shoe business, the 
firm being John M. Sticht & Brother. In 186u his brother sold his interest to Frank 
Shubert and the firm of Sticht & Shubert existed until 1880, when Mr. Sticht bought his 
partner's interest and has since conducted the busine.ss alone. He has the leading shoe 
store of the town, in fact the county, and is very popular among his neighbors and 
townspeople His store is located in the Phoenix Vjlook on Church street, owned by 
himself, and his residence is on Walnut street. In June, 1872, he married Cornelia A., 
daughter of William and Margaret (Engell) Low, and they have had three sons: John 
L., a cadet of the Annapolis Naval Academy ; Arthur C, a student of Cornell Univer- 
sity ; and Howard De Witt, who died in 1885 in his sixth year. Mr. Sticht is a sup- 



132 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

porter of the Lutheran Church, of which Mrs. Sticht is a member. Mr Sticht is a 
Republican. 

Smith, Adam, Catiajoharie, was born in Glen on the 17th of March, ]S26, and is a 
son of Adam and Elizabeth (Sheldon) Smith. His father was born in this state, but 
his mother in Connecticut. His father was a merchant for many years at Glen and at 
Charleston. He was a Whig in politics and took an active interest in the aflairs of his 
party. The grandparents of our subject on his father's side were natives of Scotland, 
and on his mother's side, of Connecticut. His grandfather Smith was a leather mer- 
chant of Stockbridge, Scotland, and came hitiierin 1780. Adam learned the mercantile 
trade with his eldest brother, which he continued until 1865. He came to Canajoharie 
in 1856 and in 1859 he and his brother formed a co-partnership with James Arkell in 
the manufacture of paper sacks, which has grown to an immerse business, employing 
about 200 workers, with a business extending to all parts of the Union. Mr. Smith 
married in 1859 Catherine S., daughter of John and Margaret (Lasher) Tan Slyke of 
Canajoharie. Thev' have three children: Elizabeth S., wife of Preston K. Yates, a civil 
engineer in New York; Ljdia K., wife of William H. Bain, coal dealer, Canajoharie- 
and George H., assistant treasurer of the firm of Arkell & Smith, ifr. Smith is a Re- 
publican in politics. He and his wife were members of the Dutch Reformed Church 
His wife died on the 1st of May, 1886. 

Shults, James W., Canajoharie, was born at Mapletown November 14, 1864. and is a 
son of Hiram and Mary (Winne) Shults. Hiram Shults, father of James, was born in 
Stone Arabia September 4, 1812. and his early life was spent there. He married Jane 
A. Doxtader. daughter of William Doxtader of Palatine, and they had four children, 
two of whom are living: Albert, of the old homestead in Root, and Catherine, wife of 
Fraling Keller of Oak Ridge. Mrs. Jane A. Shults died February 2, 1860. On the 22d 
of May, 1862, he married Mary Winne, daughter of James and Jemima (Van Sise) 
Winne of Glen. They had one child, James W. Hiram Shults died March 16, 1874. 
The early lile of James was spent in Mapletown and he was educated in the common 
schools and at Fort Plain Academy. He assisted on the farm until 1888 when he bought 
the farm where he now lives. On the 23d of October he married Mary, a daughter of 
Daniel and Elizabeth (Wood) Merselis of Canajoharie. They have had one child, 
Blanch E., born July 15, 1890. 

The Spraker Family. — Tne earliest ancestor of this family, of whom there is any 
record, is George Spraker, who immigrated to this country from the German Palatinate 
in the early part of the eighteenth century. He located in Palatine, then Albany 
county, and at the time of his death was the owner of some of the finest agricultural 
land in the Mohawk valley. He married Maria House, also of German descent, and 
they had nine children, four of whom were sons, and they, with their father, were in 
the war for independence. They were John. George, Conrad and Joseph. The latter 
was born in Palatme in 1764 and married when a young man, Catharine Frazier, a de- 
scendant of one of the Scottish pioneer families of Johnstown. They had eight children : 
Nancy, Catherine, George, Daniel, David, Livingston, James and Joseph. But one of 
this family is now living, Daniel, president of the National Mohawk River Bank, of 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 133 

Ponda. David, the third son, was born February 23, 1801. He was educated at Union 
College and studied law under Marcus T. Reynolds of Amsterdam, also at Albany with 
Judge Alfred Conkling, and with Judge Daniel Cady of Johnstown, and was admitted 
to practice as attorney of the Supreme Court in 1825, and as counsellor in 1828, and 
was licensed in the circuit and district courts of the United States in 1842. In'1830 he 
became Supreme Court commissioner and in 1833 was appointed master and examiner 
in chancery. In 1835 and for some years previous he was a judge of the court of com- 
mon pleas of Montgomery county and resigned his office in the fall of that year to take 
his seat in state senate and court for the correction of errors, which was then the court 
of last resort, where he served most honorably for four years and earned his place among 
the historic figures of the day. In 1845 he married Harriet F.. daughter of Stephen N. 
Rowan, an eloquent Presbyterian divine of Kew Yoik, and they had six cliildren : 
David, Fannie, wife of Walter P. Bonney of Erie, Pa. ; Randolph, Flora M., Ferdinand 
W., of Cooperstown ; and Hortense, wife of John H. Shaper, M. D. 

Sloan, J. Richard. Canajoharie. was born in New York January 2, 1859, a son of 
John D. and Margaret (Wessling) Sloan. John D. was born in Germany and came to 
this country in 1848, locating in New York, where he lived for twelve years, and then 
moved to Canajoharie, where he has since remained. He was a mason by trade and 
was con.sidered one of the best at that time. He had seven children, of whom four are 
living: John, of Canajoharie; Anna, Helen, and J. Richard. The latter was educated 
in the common schools, and when twenty years of age learned the trade of his father. 
Among the many fine buildings which he has contracted are the residence of W. J. 
Arkell, that of A. G. Richmond, and that of James Arkell, which is looked upon as 
the finest in the town; theBetts Block, the Hammersmith Block, and the Union Free 
School Building, a fine stone structure, requiring 900 yards of stone. In 1885 Mr. 
Sloan married Ella A. Woodard of Canajoharie, and they have two children : William 
W., born October 17, 1885; and Margueritta M., born April 29, 1890. Mr. and Mrs. 
Sloan are members of the English Lutheran Church. Mr. Sloan has never taken an 
active interest in politics, his ambition lying in the direction of a business life. 

Schultze, Charles E., Canajoharie, was born in Canajoharie January 4, 1853, and is a 
son of Charles G. and Fredericka (Hyer) Schultze. His father was born in Germany 
and came to this country about 1840. He first located in Spraker's Basin, and while 
there was employed on the enlargement of the Erie Canal. His next business was to 
establish a grocery and provision store in Canajoharie, in the year 1842, which he con- 
ducted for a number of years, then commenced the gardening of fruit and vegetables, 
which he followed until his death in March, 1887. He gave his whole time to this 
business, which he conducted with success, taking but little interest in politics. He 
had three children, of whom but one (Charles E.) is now living. The early life of the 
latter was spent in this town, where he was educated in the common schools. At the 
age of sixteen he left home to try what he could do in tlie metropolis. He followed 
butchering in New York for seven years, and then returned to Canajoharie, where he 
opened a market in company with Lewis Martin, which partnership lasted till the fire 
of 1877, when the market was destroyed and Mr. Schultze lost his entire property. 
With great perseverance and energy he again started in business, running a wagon, 



134 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and conducting the Cottage Hotel for ilr. Benjamin, which he continued for nearly 
three years, then again started a market, and has since done a very successful business. 
In 1874 he married Esther, daughter of Thomas Stokes, a native of England, and they 
have had two children : Edward F., who died in 1883, aged seven years; and a 
daughter, Allie D. 

Smith, Martin L., Canajoharie, was born in Springfield, Otsego county, in 1835. 
His boyhood was spent at his birthplace, and he was educated at the common schools 
of the town, and also the Union Free School, with a course in the Cooperstown 
Seminary. He came to Canajoharie in 1852, and in 1859 he engaged in partnership 
with Silas V. Wemple in the malting business, which continued for four years, and 
then he conducted it alone until the great fire in 1877 (April 30), when he lost the 
buildings and stock, consisting of about $40,000 worth of barley and malt. After the 
lo>s of his malthouse he engaged in the lumber business, which he still conducts. He 
married, in 1861, Mary J. Geortner, of this town, and they have had two children. 
Mr. Smith has several times been trustee of the village, and the last time he was made 
president. He has been a director of the Canajoharie National Bank for the last 
twelve years. 

Simons, Frank E., Canajoharie, was born in the village of Phoenix, Oswego county, 
April 28. 1851, and is a son of James F. and Lavana (Church) Simons. His early life 
was spent in Phoenix, but at the age of twelve his parents moved to Fulton (in the 
same county), where he attended the graded school. When he was twenty-one he 
entered the office of Beadle & Senn, BufTalo. as assistant book-keeper, taught school 
one term near his old home, and then returned to Buffalo, re-engaging with the same 
company he had previously served, and staying there until July, 1873. In September 
he entered Cornell University, remaining until 1876, when he entered Albany Medical 
College, graduating January 29, 1879. February 18 of the same year he came to 
Canajoharie and began the practice of his profession, which he has since continued. 
Dr. Simons was elected coroner in the fall of 1879 and re-elected in 1882 ; six years 
after the expiration of his term he was again elected president of the village, and has 
held the office of health officer since 1886. January 1, 1879, he married Minnie, 
daughter of Dr. 0. B. Nelson of Fulton. They have one child, Willis N., born January 
19, 1884. Dr. Simons is a member of Hamilton Lodge, No. 79, F. & A. M. ; Hiram 
Union Chapter, No. 53, R. A. M. ; Little Falls Conimandery, No. 20 ; and a member 
of Zyara Temple of Utica. He is also a member of the Improved Order of Red Men, 
Tana Joras Tribe, No. 148. 

Smith, Dr. Andrew P., of Ames, was born in Starkville, Herkimer county, on the 
18th of January, 1818, and is a son of John and Mary Pinckney Smith. His father 
was of Dutch ancestry and his mother of old Yankee stock and a descendant of Thom- 
as Pinckney, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. They were 
among the early settlers of the county. Dr. Smith was a self-educated man; at the 
a^e of eleven years he went west and studied medicine, attending lectures at Geneva, 
and began practice at twenty-seven years of age in Starkville. He was a successful 
practitioner for twenty-five years and accumulated a fortune. About 1878 he came to 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 135 

Ames, where lie has led a retired hfe, having been an eminent man in his profession. 
He was married three times; his present wife is Catherine George, a sister of Alonzo 
of Canajoharie. They have one son. He has been a Whig and a Republican and was 
for two years town clerk, town school commissioner a year, and postmaster for four 
years at Starkville. He is a very genial and much respected gentleman and enjoys the 
acquaintance of a wide circle of friends. 

Sammons, Samuel G., Canajoharie, Buel p. o., was born in the town of Canajoharie 
near his present residence December 5, 1815, and is a son of Cornelius T. and Jane 
(Gardinier) Sammons. The great-grandfather of our subject, Thomas Sammons, mar- 
ried Petter Nella Schoonmaker, and their home was in Fulton county. His son Thom- 
as, the grandfather of our .subject, was the father of two children ; Cornelius was the 
oldest and was the first of the Sammons family to come to this town, coming here in 
1796. Previous to this he had married Jane Gardinier of Fultonville. They were the 
parents of six children, but only two are living : Eliza, now Mrs. H. J. Robinson of Can- 
ajoharie ; and Samuel, our subject, He lost his father when he was only six years old, 
and his whole life has been spent in this town. He attended the common school and 
worked on the farm until he was twenty years old, when he bought the old homestead 
farm, conducted it for six years, and then bought, in 1842, his present residence. It 
was then a farm of 150 acres, mostly cultivated for hay and grain and hops. February 
18, 1840, he married Sarah E. Lane, and they are the parents of five children, four of 
whom are living : Henry T. of Canajoharie ; William L., who owns the homestead farm ; 
Mary E., wife of William Hibbard; and Ella M., wife of De Forest Garlock of Cana- 
joharie. Mrs. Sammons died April 20, 1885, at sixty-eight years of age. Mr. Sammons 
is one of the first men in this town, an earnest Christian, good neighbor, and upright 
citizen. William L. Sammons was born on this farm January 30, 1845, has always 
lived in the town. November 5, 1870, he married Ella Web.«ter of Sharon. She died 
March 29, 1879. In 1888 he bought the old homestead farm of his father and has since 
conducted it. February 7, 1882, he married Hattie T. Putnam of Glen, and they have 
one child, S. Merton, born April 1, 1884. Mr. Sammons is a member of the Presby- 
terian church at Buel, and it is said of him '' He is a good neighbor." 

Suits, Peter Langrave, M. D., Mohawk, Tribes Hill p. o., son of Joseph N. and Lucin- 
da (Van De Warker) Suits, was born in Palatine March 9, 1845. His education was 
obtained at the common schools and Fairfield Academy, and he taught school for ten 
years. He took three courses at the Albany Medical College and graduated in the spring 
of 1879. He located at Tribes Hill the same year, where he has since practiced. For 
three years he has been the physician at the Montgomery county asylum. He is a 
Democrat in politics, in which he takes an active part. In 1872 he married Lydia A. 
Rogers of St. Johnsville. He is a member of the state and county medical societies. 
Josiah Suits, oldest brother of Dr. Suits, was born in M'ay, 1838, and has taught school 
in Montgomery county thirty-six years. Nicholas Suits was a son of Peter Suits and 
was a farmer. He was in Fort Paris during the revolution. His father was among the 
first settlers in this valley, the so-called "Palatinates." George Suits, brother of Nicho- 
las, served seven years in the revolutionary war, in which he held the ofiioe of corporal. 
He had no children. Joseph N. Suits, a son of Nicholas, was born in Palatine August 



136 HISTORY OK MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

6, 1809, and married Lucinda Van De VVarker, who was born June 24, 1818. They had 
ten children. He was a tailor by trade ; al.~o a violinist of note, and Dr. Suits has in 
his possession a Cremona violin which was made m Italy in 1700. Joseph N. Suits 
died in 1883, and his wife in 1885. 

Sitterly, Jere S., Mohawk, son of Christian and Maria L. (Snell) Sitterly, was born 
in Palatine January 9, 1863. After attending the common schools he spent two years 
at the Clinton Liberal Institute at Fort Plain He jjia<luated from Fort Edward Col- 
legiate Institute in 1882 at the head of his class, and read law with Carroll & Eraser of 
Johnstown. In May, 1884, he was gradnaird from the Alljany Law School with the 
degree of LL. B. He then read law with Judge Z. S. Westbrook of Amsterdam, and 
was admitted to the bar in May, 1885. On the 1st of April, 1886, he came to Fonda 
and opened a law office, where he has s'nce retnamed, having won an extensive practice. 
He is a Democrat and was elected supervisor of tlie town of Mohawk in 1889, but 
prefers his profession to political life. He is a member of the Fultonville Lodge No. 
531, F. and A. M., the Order of Red Men, K. of P., and the Reform Club of New 
York. 

Schenck, Ralph, Mohawk, who was a native of Monmouth county, N. J., settled in 
1784 on the farm novy owned by Mortis Chiisinian. He had two sons, William and 
Edward Taylor, and eight dau^diiers : Rebecca, Eleanor, Aim, Ahda, Mary, Catharine, 
Margaret and Sarah. Edward Taylor was born February 1, 1793. He married Eliza- 
beth VVemple, daughter of Myndert Weniple, and they had seven children. He was a 
farmer, and died in 1856, and his wife in Is8.i. Mynard, son of Edward, was born 
October 19, 1833, and married Eliza, daughter of Ralph Putman, who died September 
18, 1892. They had three children : Helle Everett, Edward Taylor and Jennie E. 
Edward Taylor married Libbie Stoller, and they have two children, John Taylor and 
Maude E. Jennie E. married Marion Gross, and they reside in New York. 

Smith Ralph H., Mohawk, Fonda p. o., a son of Parchel B. and Harriet (Haines) 
Smith, was born in New York June 7, 1855. His father was a varnish manufacturer 
at Hunter's Point, L. I. When Ralph w as fourteen years old his father removed to 
Wilton, Saratoga county, and resided there until his death in February, 1876. His wife 
died in June of the same year. Ralph was in the employ of the N. Y. C. railroad for three 
years, then returned to his home and was engineer in the steam flouring-mill a short 
time. He then learned the miller's trade, and in 1887 built a steam grist-mill on his 
father's old farm, and sold the mill in April, 1892. September 25, 1889, he bought the 
Berryville flouring-mill, which has four run of stone, and has a capacity for grinding 
400 bushels per day. In 1879 he man ied Flora Hodges of Saratoga county. 

Spraker, Daniel, Mohawk, Fonda p. o., was born August 26, 1798. He was one of 
six sons of Jost Spraker, all of whom were reared at the old homestead on the Mohawk 
turnpike at Sprakers, and became active and prominent business men in that vicinity. 
Daniel Spraker is now the only survivor. The Spraker family has long been prominent 
in the Mohawk valley in wealth and enterprise, as well as in social and political influ- 
ence. George Spraker, the earliest iUice>tor of the family in the valley, was a native 
of Saxony and settled tn Palatine about the year 1775. He was an industrious man 



FAMILY SKETCHES 137 

and at the time of his death was the owner of some of the finest farm land in tlie valley. 
He had four sons and five dau^jhlers, and llie sous, wilh himself, bore arms against the 
British and Indians in the war for iudt-peudtniL-e. On the death of George Spraker, 
Jost, his youngest son and the fatlier of Daniel, sui;ceeded to the paternal homestead. 
He became well known, not only in this slate but heyoud its limits. Travelers through 
the valley before the time of the railroads, were entertained at his hotel, popularly known 
as "Spraker's Tavern," which became famous for liberal hospitality, being a point at 
which relay horses for stage coaches were always supplied. It was here that Daniel 
was born and reared. Jost Spraker married Ualhariiie Frazer, a descendant of one of 
the Scottish pioneer families who first sellleU in Juhuslovvn, and they reared six sons 
and two daughters. Daniel began business for himself at tlie age of tweuty-oue at 
Spraker's Basin, engaging in the mercantile, storage and forwarding business, and 
soon became one of the leading merchants of the valley. Later on for about three years 
(1854-55 and 56) Mr. Spraker lived a retiied life at Canajoharie. In 1853 the Spraker 
brothers, having realized the importance of the banking business, established the Spraker 
Bank at Canajoharie, and soon afterwards the Mohawk River Bank at Fonda. On the 
organization (in 185G) of the latter, which wa-! fust a State and is now a National bank, 
Daniel Spraker removed to Fonda and became its president, and has held that olHce 
ever since — a period of thirty-six years. He has also been one of the directors of the 
Spraker Bank since its organization. In 182G lie married Eliza, daughter of Stephen 
Dykeman of Canajoharie, a prominent miller and distiller. He lost his wife iu 1850. 
and lias since remained a widower. Of iheir seven children, three died in infancy. 
One daughter, Mrs. E. E. Gillett, died in 180'), and another, Mrs. Jacob Hees, in 1886, 
and but two children are now living, Mrs. .luhii W. Wilson of Fonda, and James D. 
Spraker of New York. Mr. Spraker has been througliout his long and successful 
life an unswerving Democrat, and though in his ninety-fifth year, is still active and 
energetic in his public and private duties. 

Saltsraan, Jeremiah, Palatine, was born in Palatine July 24, 1836. His father was 
Peter I. Saltsman ; his grandfather, Joliii Sali.>-maii, whose father came from Germany 
and settled on the farm of 100 acres now owned by Jeremiah Saltsman. Jolin Salts- 
man was born in 1767, reared on a farm and, November 1, 1791, married Elizabeth 
Getman (born December 26, 1772, iu Palatine), who boreliim two sons and two daugh- 
ters. He died July 6, 1822, and she in 18.")7. I'eter I, Salt.'^man was born in Palatine- 
January 26, 1792, was always a farmer and married Catherine, daughter of Williani 
Saltsman, who bore him eight sons and six daughicrs-. He and family were members 
of the Lutheran Church at Stone Arabia. He died August 17, 1882. Jeremiah Salts- 
man was brought up on a farm and educaled at the connnon schools. Sepiember 28, 
1864, he married Catherine (born in Palatine, December 3l), 1844), daughter of Hiram 
and Catherine Shults. Hiram Sliiilts's father had three brothers captured in the revo- 
lutionary war, one of whom, Martin, died during his imprisonment. Jeremiah Salts 
man and wife had the following children, namely : Cora (deceased), Myron H., Clarenci- 
P., and Etliel C. Mr. Saltsman has a farm of 20(1 acres and runs a large dairy. He is 
a member of Fort Plain Lodge No. 433 F. & A. M., and of Stone Arabia Grange No. 



138 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

090. His son Myron is a member of the Mohawk Valley Lodge No. 66 K. of P., at 
Fort Plain. The family are members of the Lutheran Church at Stone Arabia. 

Snyder. George, Palatine, was born in Cayuga county in October, 18S4. His father 
was Henry Snyder, and his grandfather bore the same name. The latter was a natiTe of 
Dutchess county and went at an early day to Cayuga county, where he became a wealthy 
man. He was the father of three sons and five daughters. Henry Snyder, junior, was 
born in Cayuga county, raised on a farm and sent to the common school. He married 
Sylvia Slocum, who bore him two children. He died and his widow married Thcmas 
White, and bore him one son and three daughters. The mother now resides at Roch- 
ester, aged about eighty years. George Snyder was raised on a farm and married. May 
16, 1865. Martha J. Cranker of Palatine. Their children are as follows : Eugene R., 
Henry A., Jennie M., George L, Carrie M., Sylvia C, John H., Mabel B., and Clarence 
L. Mr. Snyder was in the livery business for several years in Cortland county, and in 
1859 went to California and engaged in buying and selling slock. He came to Nellis- 
ton in 1862, and since has been a drayman, for many years in partnership with his 
brother-in-law, Mr. Cranker. He was one of the first trustees of the village. He was 
reared a Universalist. Mrs. Snyder died in December, 1888, aged forty- one. 

Smith. J. Harvey, Palatine, was born in Salisbury, Herkimer county, September 1, 
1828. His father was Daniel Smith ; his grandfather, Gilead Smith, who came at an 
early date from Saratoga county and settled On the Royal Grant in Heikimer county ; 
his great-grandfather was Benajer Smith, who settled in Saratoga county where he lived 
and died. Gilead Smith was twice married ; first to Eleanor Disbrow, who bore him 
four children ; second, to Thankful Peck, by whom he had two children. He died in 
Herkimer county in 1837. Daniel Smith was born in Salisbury May 15, 1803, and 
married Delight, daughter of Simeon Ives, a native of TVallingford, Conn., who came to 
Herkimer county when a boy ; his wife was Apluma Shepherd, who bore him nine 
children. Simeon Ives was the son of John, who served seven years in the revolution- 
ary war, and died at the age of ninety-three. J. Harvey Smith received an academic 
education, and in 1851 married Cornelia Ives of Lewis county. She died while visiting 
her parents in 1853. In 1855 he married Alvina E. Hayner of Rensselaer county, who 
bore him the following children : Emma J., Charles D., Frank H. and Nellie E. He 
and his family are members of the Reformed Church at Fort Plain. 

Saltsman, Amelia M., Palatine, was born in Palatine on the farm where she now re- 
sides. Her father was Daniel Saltsman, who was born on the same farm, February 12, 
1795; her grandfather was John Saltsman, who married Elizabeth Getman. Daniel 
Saltsman was raised on the farm and educated in the common school. He married 
Catherine Nellis of Palatine, who was born October 25, 1798. Her father was John 
Nellis, whose biography appears in this book. Daniel Saltsman and wife had four sons 
and nine daughters, of whom the following are living and reside in Palatine on the 
home farm: Amelia M. ; Almina, now Mrs. Arthur Rickard ; Frederick; John D., and 
Andrew. The older sisters, Mrs. Oliver Gary and Mrs. Peter I. Nellis, also live in 
Palatine. Daniel and wife were members of the Stone Arabia Lutheran Church. He 
died December 5, 1871, and his wife in 1863. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 139- 

Smitli, Charles D., Palatine, was born in P.alatine November 16, 1861. He is a son 
of J. Harvey and Elizabeth (Hayner) Smith. He vi^as raised on a farm and educated 
at the pubhc schools and Clinton Liberal Institute. He married in 1883 Myra, daugh- 
ter of Justis and Martha (Bauder) Cole. They have two children, Grace and J. Har- 
vey, jr. Mr. Smith lived with his parentK until 1891, when he engaged in the hardware 
business with A. Stewart and C. A. Bergen. He has also for several years carried on 
fancy poultry raising. He .ships his stock to all parts of the United States, to Canada 
and France. He is an active Republican, and he and his wife are members of the 
Reformed Church at Fort Plain. 

Scott, Alonzo M., Charleston, was born in Root March 27, 1842. He was one of 
thirteen children of Horace and Rebecca (Hoag) Scott of Charleston and Root. Horace 
Scott, the father, was a son of Ashel M. Scott, who was born in Connecticut and emi- 
grated to Montgomery county in early life. His father was one of three brothers who 
emigrated from Scotland to Connecticut. Rebecca Hoag, the mother, was one of 
twelve children of Francis and Robie (Briggs) Hoag. Alonzo M. was married June 
30, 1860, to Alida Campbell of Charleston, one of seven children of John and Delara 
(G-rifflth) Campbell of Charleston. They have three children : Kitty (Mrs. George 
Morns) ; Jennie (Mrs. Cady Eaton) ; and Emma (single). Mr. Scott has lived in 
Charleston since thirteen years of age. He served nearly three years in the army ; wag 
supervisor of the town from 1885 to 1889 ; justice of the peace eight years and justice 
of sessions two terras, and is now serving his sixth year as notary public. 

Snel!, John B., St. Johnsville, was born in St. Johnsville July 17, 1865, a son of 
Lewis and Ann L. (Lasher) Snell, natives of St. Johnsville. His father was a prominent 
and enterprising citizen and business man, greatly respected ; he served as supervisor 
of the town, and was a Democrat in politics. Both parents died in their native town. 
They reared three sons and one daughter. The great-grandfather of John B. came 
from Switzerland in 1795 and settled in Montgomery county. He was the first pastor 
of the Reformed Dutch Church in that section, and was in other ways prominently 
identified with the early history of the state. The subject of this sketch received a 
common school education, supplemented by a course at Chamberlain Institute, New 
York. He spent ten years in business pursuits in Philadelphia, Pa., and October 1, 
1891, bought the St. Johnsville Leader, and changed it to the St. Johnsville News, which 
he now publishes. He married in 1891 Charlotte K., daughter of Isaac E. Smith of 
his native place. 

Saltsman, Alvin, St. Johnsville, son of Peter I. and Catherine (Saltsman) Saltsman, 
the youngest of the family, was born in Palatine July 10, 1840. He received a district 
school education, and at the age of fifteen began to learn the wagonmaking trade in St. 
Johnsville, when his brother William was operating the shop. In 1862 they formed a 
partnership as Saltsman Bros., employing ten men in their business. Mr. Saltsman has 
been an active man in business affairs. He has served as trustee of the town, and is a 
member of F. & A. M. September 18, 1862, he married Caroline, daughter of George 
and Lana (Youran) Timmerman, natives of Herkimer county. His grandfather was in 
the battle of Oriakany, where he was wounded. He was an early pioneer. Alvin 



140 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Saltsman and his wife have one child, Mariette, wife of E. C. Bartle. Mrs. Salt.snian 
is a member of the Dutch Reformed church ; her grandfather was Adam Timmermao 
of Herkimer county. Mr. Saltsman is a director of the First National Bank. John, 
grandfather of Alvin, came from Germany and settled in Palatine before the revolution- 
ary war, where his son, Peter I., was born in 1800. He was in the war of 1812, and 
died in 1882, aged ninety. He has fourteen children, of whom eleven grew lo matur- 
ity. 

Spraker, Daniel, jr.. Root, son of George and Elizabeth Spraker, was born in Sprakers 
and received his education at the district schools and the academy. He has been in the 
insurance business since 1861, He served as justice of the peace for eight years. For 
three years he acted as justice of sessions, occupying a seat on the bench with such 
eminent jurists as Justices Potter, Rosecrans and Bockes. Was clerk of the board of 
supervisors for four years, and for many years has been a general contributor to the 
press. He owns and resides in the old family homestead at Sprakers, and is contented 
with enjoying the life of a private citizen and attending to his chosen business. 

Truax, George S., Amsterdam, Cranesville p. o., was born in the town of Pitcher, 
Chenango county, September 16, 1837, and is a son of John and Eliza (Gray) Truax. 
.lohn Truax was born in Schenectady county and was married in 1829. He was killed 
in a gaw-mill at Hagaman's Mills in 1873, being then sixty-eight years of age. He 
left four children: Cornelius E., Elizabeth A., Eliza (now Mrs. Geo. H. Dingman), and 
George S., our subject; his grandfather was General Edwin Gray of the war of 1812. 
Mrs. Truax (mother of our subject) still lives in her eightieth year. The family was first 
represented in this country by three brothers who came here from the boundary line 
between France and Holland ; one brother returned soon after, and one was killed by 
Indians, leaving one only as ancestor of the family. The great-grandmother used to 
tell a story of hiding from the Indians in a large hollow log. The family went to 
Chenango county where George was born, returning in five years to this place where 
he received his education in the public schools. In 1869 he went to work on 
the railroad ; he rapidly rose to conductor, and this he followed twenty-one years. In 
1872 he bought the farm where he now lives. He was married to Ida M. Devendorf 
of Little Falls April 17, 1870. He left the railroad in August, 1890, and has since 
worked the farm. They have one child, Mabel V , born December 2, 1881. The farm 
is a very good hay and grain farm, and his home is one of the prettiest along the Mohawk, 
and Mr. Truax is considered one of the happy prosperous farmers of the town. 

Terwilliger, William H., Amsterdam, was born in the city of Amsterdam on the 16th 
of March, 1864, and was educated in the Amsterdam Academy nine years, and is now 
a thorough machinist. On the 17th of June, 1885, he married Alice Vossler of Amster- 
dam. They have one daughter, Susan M. Mr. Terwilliger's father, John, was born at 
Hagaman's Mills in the town of Amsterdam on the 11th of October, 1839, and was ed- 
ucated in the public schools and worked at the carpenter's trade with his father three 
years. The balance of his life he has been a machinist, and was with the Greene Knit- 
ting Company through its various corporate changes of firm names thirty-two years, 
and is now associated with his son, William H., in their machine and repair shop and 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 141 

mill supplies. In September, I860, he married Harriet A. Phillips of this city. They 
have one son, William H . 

Terwilliger, Orville B., Amsterdam, was horn at Hagaman's Mills in the town of Am- 
sterdam, on the 26th of September, 1837, and was educated in the public schools and 
the old academy on Main street. In his early life he learned the carpenter's trade and 
for many years has been one of Amsterdam's contractors and builders. On the 2d day 
of May, 1861, he married Mate Gilbourne of Troy. They have three children, two sons 
and one daogliter. George, who was born on the 19th of February, 1862, and married 
Florence Ableing of Canajoharie ; they have one daughter, Ada; Cora, who married 
John N. Smith of Trenton, New Jersey, and they have one daughter, Mabel ; and Frank, 
who resides at home. Mr. Terwilliger's father, Solomon, was also born at Hagaman's 
Mills; he was a carpenter and builder and married Sarah A. Priest of Eeperance. They 
had seven children, five survive : Louisa, Abbie, Edward, John and Orville B. The 
family is of Dutch, English and German extraction. 

Timmerman Family, The. — This name has been written Timberman by some of its 
descendants. The family came originally from Switzerland, and the first of whom we 
have any information are the brothers Jacob, Lawrence, Theobold, George and Henry, 
of whom Theobold is the only one who settled in Minden. He removed from St. 
Johnsville to this town in 1769 and was injured from the running away of a team of 
horses, from which injury he died. He married Elizabeth Hawn, and had five chil- 
dren : Adam, Thomas, John, Elizabeth and Polly. Adam married Margrate Matice 
and settled on a farm adjoining. John married Anna Diefendorf and settled in Frey's 
Bush. During the war of 1812 he was captain of artillery, and went to Sackett's 
Harbor. Elizabeth married William Hackney, and Polly married John Falling. 
Thomas married Elizabeth Sanders and remained on the homestead. He had ten 
children, one of whom died in infancy. The others were as follows: Solomon, who 
married Maria Ehle and lived and died in Monroe county; Betsey, who died unmar- 
ried, in Danube ; Polly, who married William Davy and lived and died in Danube ; 
Eve, who married Peter Davy and lived and died in Danube ; Katie, widow of Abram 
Devendorf, lives at Depauville, Jeff'erson county; Lany, married Allen Story and 
removed to Monroe county, where she died while young; Benjamin, married Mary C. 
Churchill and did a large furniture business at Buffalo, removing to Iowa, where he 
died ; John never married, and now resides in California; David T. married Charlotte, 
daughter of Gen. Isaac Ellwood ; Thomas died in Minden, lacking twenty-two days of 
being ninety. David T. remained on the old homestead, and at the present writing is 
within a few months of eighty-nine. They have had eleven children, one of whom 
died in infancy. The others are: Menzo, unmarried, resides in Minden; Eliza, died 
aged twenty-five; Mary, who died at Albion, aged twenty-eight; Marvin S., who 
married lone Bowen and removed to Sycamore, 111., where they had four children, 
two of whom died in infancy ; Charlotte L., who resides in Chicago; and Willard E., 
also a resident of Chicago. lone died at Sycamore, and Marvin S. at Minneapolis ; 
David Henry, who died young; Augusta, who married W. A. Moyer and lives at 
BaldwinsviUe; they have two children, Glen and Mabel; Emma, who resides at Min- 



142 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

neapolis: Manley E., who married Emma Wilkes and has three cliildren, two of whom, 
Ray and Claire, are living; Williard E., who resides in Minden, unmarried; and Della^ 
who died aged fifteen years. David T. Timmerman has in his possession a deed bear- 
ing date of 1759, to Theobald Timmerman, his grandfather, and the land deeded has 
been in direct possession of the family ever since. 

Teeple, Calvin P., Mohawk, Fonda p. o., was born in Carlisle, Schoharie county, Sep- 
tember 17, 1857, and is a son of Edward and Catharine Teeple. In 1881 he went to 
Crown Point to learn photography with E. M. Johnson, and in 1886 he located in 
Fonda, where he has been successfully engaged in his business ever since. In 1886, 
the year of his location in Fonda, he married Blanche Peckham of Ballston Spa, and 
they have one child. Ruble B. 

Thompson, Wilbur S., Palatine, was born in Palatine Bridge December 8, 1846, and 
is a son of Joseph and Nancy (Porter) Thompson. His ancestry as far as can be 
traced were natives of tliis country. Joseph Thompson was born in Boston, and on 
reaching manhood learned the trade of stone cutter, and in 1842, when the Erie canal 
was built, he came to this county to work on aqueducts and bridges. He died in 188& 
in California, leaving two children : Maria, wife of Henry S. Murray, superintendent 
of the Pettit Manufacturing Company of Canajoharie, and Wilbur 55.. the subject. His 
early life was spent in Palatine; he was educated in the academic department of the 
Palatine school and when about seventeen years of age he went into the store of 
James D. Taylor of Palatine, where he remained but two years, when he entered the 
employ of the American Express Company as agent, and has faithfully worked for 
them for twenty-seven years. In 1867 he married Pauline Keller, daughter of John 
Keller of Canajoharie ; they have had three children : Harriet, Edith, and Henry M. 
Mr. Thompson has held the position of trustee of this village for six years. He was 
one of the founders of the order of Red Men of this village, and he now holds the 
ofBce of senior sagamore. 

Towman, Frank B., St. John.sville, attorney, was born in Mayfield, January 7, 1860, 
and is a son of Bennett W. and Hannah II. (Rhodes) Towman. After the death of 
his parents he lived with his grandparents, William H. and Rosie (Blake) Rhodes, and 
at the death of his grandfather in 1867, went to live with an uncle in Saratoga county 
until thirteen years of age. In the fall of 1875 he moved to Johnstown, where he 
remained till 1877, attending school and teachmg. He then attended a preparatory 
school at Johnstown until 1881, when he began the study of law at Northville with 
Lee S. Anable, and was admitted to the bar in 1885 at Albany. He then went to 
Johnstown, and in August, 1890, came to St. Johnsville, where he has since resided. 
September 10, 1885, he married Carrie Q., daughter of Abram and Eliza J. (Quinlan) 
Van Arnam. Mr. Toviman is a member of F. & A. M. ; I. O. 0. F. ; and K. of P. 
On his mother's side he is a tenth generation descendant of Roger Williams. He and 
his wife are members of the church — he of the Presbyterian, and she of the Methodist 
Episcopal. The grandfather, Wendell Towman, came from Baden Baden, Grermany, 
in 1832. His wife was Fannie Zaiey, by whom he had four children : Pauline, John, 
Bennett W. and one other. Bennett W., father of Frank B., came to Fulton county, 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 143 

and later settled in Mayfield, where he followed lumbering. He died February 26, 
ISB-l, and his wife November 29, 1862. They had four children, two of whom sur- 
vived : Sarah J., who married and died childless in 1880 ; and Frank B. Mrs. Frank 
B. Towman died June 28, 1892, at St. Johnsville, leaving her husband and one 
daughter, who was born June 19, 1892, and named after her mother after her death. 

Voorhees, J. Enders, Amsterdam, was born at Fort Hunter on the 17th of Septem- 
ber, 1836, and was the son of John Leslie Voorhees of that place, who died at the old 
home at Fort Hunter. His boyhood days were spent on his father's farm, but when a 
young man he took up his abode in Amsterdam. In 1867 he entered the Farmers' 
National bank as book-keeper, a position he held until 1881. L^pon the organization 
of the Greene Knitting Company he became a member and was elected president and 
acted in that capacity until his death. He was president of the Farmers' National 
bank of this city, of the Edison Electric Light and Power company and many other 
institutions of this city. He was a wise and prudent counselor, his advice was of much 
value, which had much to do with the prosperity of the bank. Mr. Voorhees took a 
deep interest in Masonry and was a member of Artisan Lodge No. 84, F. and A. M., 
Amsterdam Chapter No. 81, R. A. M., Dewitt Clinton Council No. 22, Temple Com- 
mandery No. 2 of Albany, N. Y., Albany Sovereign Consistory, also of Cyprus Temple, 
A. A. 0. N. M. S., Albany, and member of the Holland Society, New York. On the 
13th of November, 1866, he was united in marriage to Cornelia A. Becker of Port 
Jackson (now Amsterdam), who survives him with one daughter, Mrs. William G.Wal- 
dron. He also leaves a brother, James Voorhees, of the Greene Knitting company, 
and three sisters : Sarah J, and Elizabeth of Amsterdam, and Kate L. of Fort Hunter. 
Mr. Voorhees was "known and read of all men," as a square, upriglit, business Chris- 
tian gentleman. 

Van Vechten, John H., Florida, one of four children of David and Sarah C. (Hubbs) 
Van Vechten, was born May 29, 1825, on the old homestead purchased by his great- 
grandfather July 2.5, 1771, for fifty pounds, he having lived there since 1766. The 
original deed, in a good state of preservation, is in the possession of Mr. Van Vechten. 
His great-grandfather, Hubartus Van Vechten, was born at Catskill October 31, 1725. 
He was a soldier in the revolutionary army, and died July 4, 1778. His wife was Mary 
•Spore. His son Derrick, the next in line, was born at Catskill October 24, 1753, and 
served all through the revolutionary war, receiving not even a scratch. He was in the 
__battles of Oriskany, Saratoga and many others. His wife was Eachel Spore. He died 
November 17, 1847, being then in his ninety-fifth year. His son David, father of John 
H., was born on the old homestead in Florida, March 1, 1799. He died there Novem- 
ber 11, 1862, His wife, Sarah C. Hubbs, was born November 4, 1808. John H. Van 
Vechten married, February 13, 1850, Isabella Keachie, who was born in Florida Janu- 
ary 12, 1822, and who died June 7, 1891. They had two children, Carrie Bell, who 
died in childhood, and Agnes Mary, now Mrs. Alfred Dougall, who with her husband, 
ives upon the property in a house near by. The record of this family is uncommon in 
these days of changing property. Five generations of the Van Vechten family lie in 
their^burying-ground near the old home. 



144 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Van Deusen, Edwin Smith, Minden, was born in Canajoharie December 1, 1854, and 
is the third son of a family of five children of Justus and Nancy ( Jndd) Van Deusen. 
He attended the local schools, the Cherry Valley Academy, and the Fort Plain Semin- 
ary. In 1876 he commenced to read law with Judge John D. \Vendell of Fort Plain, 
and was graduated from the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. He was admitted 
to the bar at the fall term of 1879 and from 1880 to 1883 was managing clerk in the 
law oBBce of J. D. & F. F. Wendell. On the retirement of the junior member in 1883, 
Mr. Van Deusen became a partner, under the firm name of Wendell & Van Deusen, 
which copartnership continued until 1889, since which time he has practiced alone. In 
politics he is a Republican. He married Emma, daughter of Henry C. Sanders of 
Minden. 

Vedder, John J., Glen, was born in Glen May 12, 1867, and is a son of David F. and 
Mary E. Shelp Vedder. The other children were Francis B., Anna Maria, and Nelson 
D., deceased. John J. was married October 5, 1887, to Gertrude Hanson, daughter of 
Henry D. and Sarah Maria (Lottridge) Hanson of Mohawk. She was one of five chil- 
dren, the others being William L., Charles, Clarence H. and Bertha Hanson. Mr. and 
Mrs. Vedder have two children, David H. and Bertha M. 

Van Antwerp, John N., Glen, was born in Glen February 13, 1855. He was one of 
two children of Peter and Rachel (Enders) Van Antwerp, the other being Putnam Van 
Antwerp, deceased. Peter, the father, was one of six children of John L. and Susan 
(Qiiackenbush) Van Antwerp, both natives of Rotterdam, who in early life came to 
Glen, where they lived and died. The other children were: Rebecca (Mrs. George 
Davis); Margaret (Mrs. Martin Kline, deceased); Mary Ann (Mrs. William Irving); 
Lewis; and Susan (Mrs. Simon Van Antwerp, deceased). Rachel (Enders) Van Ant- 
werp, the mother, was one of seven children of Peter and Eleanor (Newkirk) Enders, 
the others being Garrett, Eleanor (Mrs. Tunis Van Derveer), Christie Ann (Mrs. Ecker- 
son), Jacob, John and Samuel Enders. Simon Van Antwerp, father of John L., was 
born in Rotterdam, as was also his wife, Rebecca (Mabee) Van Antwerp. His father, 
also named Simon, emigrated from Holland at an early day and settled in Rotterdam. 
The chest in wliich some of his eft'ect.s were brought to this country is now in the 
possession of his great-granddaughter, Mrs. George Davis. John N. Van Antwerp was 
married January 8. 1878, to Lina S., daughter of Hiram and Catharine (Schuyler) 
Hubbs of Florida, she being one of three children. They have had two children: Roy 
Ilubbs, who died when ten years of age; and Ethel Van Antwerp. Mr. Van Antwerp 
was engaged for many years in the flour, feed and grain business with his father at 
Fultonville, but is now engaged in the manufacture of knit goods at Amsterdam, em- 
ploying about 140 workers and producing about 125 dozen per day, the factory being 
known as the Pioneer Knitting Mill. 

Van Home, Schuyler, Glen, one of the nine children of Cornelius C. and Hannah 
(Van Home) Van Home, was born on the family homestead in Glen, September 25, 
1831. His father, Cornelius C, was al.so born on the homestead January 15, 1794. 
His wife, Hannah Van Home, was born in the town of Florida July 4, 1796, His 
grandfather, CorneHus, was born at White House, N. J., March 10, 1745, afterwards 



FAMILY SKETCHES 145 

removed to Glen, where lie married at the n<je of iwenty-one Eva Frederick of 
Florida. He died February 26, 1823. From him the ancestry is traced directly back 
to the year 1634, when Jacques Van Home was one of the committee of two of 
the board of trade of New York, on resolutions to form a plan to colonize the 
Netherlands. Schuyler Van Home married, October 12. 1853, Elizabeth, dausrhter of 
Henry and Lydia( Parks) Shelp of Glen. They have three children; Cornelius S., 
Alice, wife of William H. Voorhees, and Hannah, wife of Frank Edwards. Cornelius 
S., the son, married Mary A. Van Home of Florida, September 27, 1876, she being a 
daughter of Cornelius D. and Adaline Van Home. They have three children: Nellie 
C, Hannah M., and Cornelius H. 

Shults, Christopher W., Palatine, was born in Palatine October 10, 1817. His father 
was William Shults, and his grandfather, Henry Shults, also born in Palatine, and one 
of three brothers who were taken prisoners in the "revolutionary war, and the only one 
who returned. He married a widow, Mrs. Empie, by whom he had three daugh- 
ters and seven sons. At the close of the war he settled where his grandson, Wal- 
ter Shults, now lives. The latter married Mary Ricted, and they had ten children. Pa- 
rents and children were members of the Lutheran churcli. He died in 184G, and his 
wife in 1850. Christopher W. Shults received a common school education, and in 1840 
married Lucinda (born May 27, 1824), daughter of Casper and Elizabeth (Bauder) Get- 
man. They had the following children : William C, Arvillura ( deceased ), Clark L., 
Martha and Cora. When Mr. Shults was three years of age he was brought by his 
parents to where he now lives. He helped to clear the farm he now owns. He has 
followed farming and lumbering. He and his family attend the Lutheran church. 

Vrooman Family, The. — Henry Vrooman was born in the town of Mohawk and mar- 
ried for his first wife a Miss Smith, by whom he had three children, viz. : Benjamin, 
Catherine (wife of Barney Vedder of Mohawk), and Barney, who died young. He 
married second a Miss Culver, and their children were William, a resident of Penn Yan : 
Annette, a resident of New York ; and Elizabeth, who married Samuel Myas and is 
living at Penn Yan. Benjamin, son of Henry, was bom in Mohawk, April 26, 1816, 
and married Mary Garlock. Their children areas follows: Willard, Henry, died agert 
forty-two years in Mohawk; Elizabeth, wife of Amos Bennett of Buffalo; Annette 
wife of John P. Grant of Fort Plain: Mary E., resides in Mohawk; John and Katey. 
who died young. Benjamin died in Mohawk, May 18, 1885. Willard, of the abovi 
family, was bom in Mohawk, March 22, 1844, and resided in his native town until the 
spring of 1882, when he came to Minden. He married first, Elizabeth Sammons oi 
Mohawk. His second wife was Harriet Suits of Mohawk, by whom he has two chil 
dren, Clarence and Elsie Elizabeth. 

Van Derveer, Ira, Glen, was born in Glen November 7, 1850. He was one of four 
children of Tunis and Eleanor (Enders) Van Derveer, the others being Virginia, Johii 
Enders and Henrietta (who died in infancy). Tunis, the father, was born December V. 
1822, on the homestead in Glen. He was one of seven children of John and Ann:i 
(Voorhees) Van Derveer of Florida. Tunis, the great-grandfather, was born in Nev 
Jersey and came to Glen in early life. Eleanor Enders, the mother, was one of nine 



146 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

children of Peter and Eleanor (Newkirk) Enders, of Florida, the latter being a daughter 
of Garrett and Rachel (Gardenier) Newkirk of Florida; the former born January 21, 
1760, and the latter February 24, 1763. Ira Van Derveer married, June 25, 1890, 
Cora, one of three children of John and Sarah (Stokes) Lewis of Johnstown. John 
Enders Van Derveer married in 1891, Elizabeth, daughter of Joel and Augusta (Put- 
nam) Van Home, of Amsterdam. The farm where Ira and his parents live is known 
as " Willowdale Stock Farm" owned by the Van Derveer brothers, and is noted for its 
blooded imported Percheron and French coach horses. 

Vedder, John O., Glen, was born in Glen, May 27, 1827. being one of six children of 
John and Elizabeth Ostrom Vedder; the others were Dayid, Nancy, Abigail (deceased), 
Maria, and Elizabeth Cdeceased). John, his grandfather, was born in Albany county 
and came to Glen and settled in early life. His wife, Eva (Clute) Vedder, was also 
born in Albany county. Elizabeth (Ostrom) Vedder's father, John Ostrom, was a 
native of New Jersey. His wife was Anne Lane (see sketch of Stephen Ostrom). 
John 0. Vedder married in 185-1, Jane Ann Lasher of Root, one of nine children of 
George I. E. and Catherine (Smith) Lasher, the others being Catherine (Mrs. Abram P. 
Yates) ; Minerva (Mrs. L. Van Burgin) ; Margaret (deceased) ; Charlotte (Mrs. Delevan 
Yates) ; Louise (Mrs. Charles Lattiraore) ; George (deceased), and William and Herman 
Lasher. They have two children, Elizabeth (Mrs. Mount Edwards), and Anna C. 
Vedder. 

Van Heusen, Franklin, Glen, was born in the town of Johnstown (now Mohawk) 
April 28, 1812, being one of ten children of Wynant and Elizabeth (Cooper) Van 
Heusen. Wynant, the father, was born in Albany and came to Tribes Hill and 
settled in early life, his wife being a native of Long Island. Franklin Van Heusen 
was married in 1837 to Elizabeth Smith of Glen, a daughter of Adam and Eliza- 
beth (Sheldon) Smith. They had four children, two now Hying: Ruby Elizabeth 
(Mrs. Henry Persse of Denver), and Diantha Louisa (Mrs. Wellington Cross of Fulton- 
ville). Mr. Van Heusen has lived nearly all his life at Tribes Hill as a farmer but 
is now living with his daughter, Mrs. Cross in Fultonville. 

Van Buren, Daniel F., Glen, one of two children of William and Harriet (Faulkner) 
Van Buren, was born in Glen Apiil 19, 1842, the other being Barney Van Buren, of 
Fonda. His grandfather, Barnty Van Buren, who married Susan Marlett, came to 
Glen from Otsego county in eaily life. Daniel F. Van Buren married, October 22, 
1879, Charlotte E., one of three children of Henry and Catharine (Becker) Mabee; the 
others being Maria, wife of Jacob Argersinger; and Susan, wife of Conrad Shutts. 
Her paternal grandfather was Peter H. Mabee, and his wife was Maria Quackenbush ; 
her great-grandfather, Harmanus Mabee, lived upon the farm, a part of the original 
grant of 1,000 acres, accorded to the Mabees. Her great-great-grandfather was Capt. 
Hendrick Mabee, who lived on the homestead, and was an officer in the revolutionary 
war. Her maternal grandfather was Mathias Becker of Florida, and his wife was Helen 
Martin, daughter of Peter and Susan (Beyeau) Martin. Her maternal great-grand- 
father, Peter Martin, was killed by the Indians, and his house in Florida burned to the 
ground. His wife and three children were taken prisoners, and afterwards rescued by 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 147 

General Butler, the general taking her grandmother on his horse with him and wrapping- 
her in his fur-lined cloak, she being but a small child. 

Van Evera, Roof, Canajoharie, was born October 22, 1819, and has always lived on 
the farm where he now resides, and is a .son of Cornelius N. and Maria (Roof) Van 
Evera. The great-grandfather of our .subject (Cornelius Van Evera) was one of the 
original settlers in this town (born in 1732 and died in 1815). His son Nicholas was 
born in this town September 8, 1770. and married, February 18, 1792, Agnes Van 
Alatine, from Helderberg, whose people afterwards settled in the town of Root. They 
were the parents of three children : Cornelius, John and Henry. Corneliu.s, the father 
of Roof, was born November 14, 1793, and married, December 14, 1814, Maria Roof, 
daughter of John and Gertrude (Spraker) Roof. Colonel John Roof was an officer in 
the revolutionary war. Cornelius was the father of three children : Nicholas C, a re- 
tired merchant of Michigan ; Maria A. Burdick, died March 3, 1888, aged sixty-five 
years ; and Roof, our subject. The latter was educated in the common schools. In 
1848 he took five different contracts in the construction of the canal, which work he 
was engaged in for two years. March 15, 1842, he married Cornelia M., daughter of 
Andrew and Catharine (We.ssels) Hibbard of Root. They have two children : Josephine, 
wife of Alonzo Geweye of Canajoharie, and Oscar C, who conducts the home farm. 
The latter was born December 15, 1849, and received his education in the Canajoharie 
Academy. He married, December 23, 1873, Carrie, daughter of Charles R. and Ger- 
trude (Stowitts) Kelly of Canajoharie. They have one child, Howard R., born Novem- 
ber 13, 1879. Mrs. Van Evera, mother of our subject,, is still living in her ninety-sixth 
year, having been born July 12, 1797. 

Van Wie, William, Canajoharie, was born in Palatine, May 24, 1848, and is a son of 
John D. and Maria (Wormuth) Van Wie. Daniel, the grandfather of the subject, was 
a native of Palatine, born in 1789. He married Nancy Dillenback of Palatine, and 
they had ten children, eight of whom survive: George, Henry, John D., Andrew 
Jerome, Sarah, widow of Josiali Dillenback; Eve, widow of John Van Deusen of 
Steuben county ; Phoebe, wife of David Quackenbush ; Agnes, deceased ; and Lavina, 
who died in Steuben county in 1890. John D., fiither of William, was the third son. 
He was born in Palatine J:muary 9, 1819, and nuiriried in 1848 Maria, daughter of M. 
Wormuth of Palatine. They had two children : Helen, wife of Luther Dillenback ; 
an<l William, our subject. The early life of the latter was spent in Palatine. He was 
educated in the common schools and at Canajoharie Academy, and in 1870 his father 
bought the farm in Canajoharie where William now lives, and which they have since 
made their home. September 3, 1873, William married Lucretia, daughter of Jacob 
and Ann Leslie (Printup) Wessels of Root. Tliey have five children : Vernon J., born 
June 24, 1875; Bertha Lesley, born March 29, 1878; Adin, born February 2f), 1888; 
Anna Voorhees, born May 23, 1890; and William A., born June 27, 1892. Mr. Van 
Wie is a staunch Democrat, a member of Mapletown Grange, and is now trustee of the 
school in district No. 4. 

Van Alstine, Cornelius, Canajoharie, was born in the town of Canajoharie, about a 
mile east of the village, December 17, 1840, and is a son of Mathias and Rebecca 



148 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

(Van Evera) Van Alstine. His early life was spent in the town of Canajoharie, where 
he was educated in the common schools. August 11, 1864, he married Mary J., daugh- 
ter of John B. Van Alstine of Ames. They have had five children, three of whom are 
living: Cora B. of Canajoharie; Adelbert, who lives at home; and Ellis. Mrs. Mary 
J. Van Alstine died July 22, 1826, aged thirty-six years, and he malried second Cor- 
nelia C, daughter of Martin Smith of Mapletown, March 26, 1878. They have one 
child, Mary J., born October 12, 1879. Mrs. Van Alstine is a granddaugher of Peter 
Van Valkenburg and great-granddaughter of Lambert Van Valkenburg, who built the 
old homestead near the town line nearly 100 years ago. A great many relics of these 
old days are still in the hands of the family. Mr. Van Alstine was a soldier in Com- 
pany E, Forty-Third New York Volunteers, serving four years in the Army of the 
Potomac, and was twice wounded, once very seriously. 

Van Alstine, Cornelius, Canajoharie, was born in Canajoharie, April 6, 1817, and is a 
son of Cornelius and Maria (Platts) Van Alstine. Cornelius was the first of the family 
to visit this town. He died in 1828 at the age of fifty-five, leaving six children, of 
whom three are living: Jane of Marshville, Ephraim of Syracuse, and Cornelius. The 
latter was educated in the common schools and assisted on the farm until he was 
twenty-eight, when he married and started for himself, buying a farm near Marshville 
of over 100 acres. He remained here until 1860 and then as his wife was feeble he 
gave up farming and spent two years in Canajoharie and two in Marshville and then 
bought the only store in the village of Marshville. The same jear he was appointed 
postmaster and has held that position ever since. He has a fine trade and is a success- 
ful business man. On the 1st of April, 1845, he married Mary, a daughter of Seymour 
Marsh, from whom this village was named and who is the inventor of the truss so com- 
monly used. Mr. Van Alstine has been the father of eight children, six of whom are 
living : Sej'mour of Boston ; Annie, wife of James W. Dygert, the supervisor of Can- 
ajoharie ; Mary, wife of John W. Smith of Marshville; Charles P. of Philadelphia; 
Benjamin G. of Marshville; and Viva, wife of Roselle Cross of Albany. Mr. Van 
Alstine is quite an active politician, not as an office seeker but for the success of the 
Republican party. He is known among the citizens of this place as an honest upright 
man. Mrs. Van Alstine died May 9, 1868, aged forty-eight. Benjamin G. Van Alstine 
was born in this town, July 7, 1860, and is now conducting the general store at Marsh- 
ville. He also does a butchering business and conducts a meat market iu this place. 
August 5, 1888, he married Frank, a daughter of John F. and Aurellia (Reynolds) 
Brownell of Northville. They have one child, Guy B., born May 20, 1889. Mr. Van 
Alstine is one of the first business men of this town. 

Van Ness, Henry, Canajoharie, was born in Schodack, Rensselaer county, March 20, 
1821, and is a son of Philip and Marie (Springstead) Van Ness. John Van Ness, the 
grandfather of Henry, was a native of this State, and he was the father of five children, 
of whom three were boys, one of whom was Philip, father of Henry. He was born 
in Rensselaer county and always lived there until his death about 1827. He was the 
father of six children, two of whom are living: Ann, widow of Barent Hoes of Rens- 
selaer county, and Henry. When the latter was but six years old his father died and 
four or five years after his mother married William Cronkhite of Minden. Henry lived 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 149 

with his grandmother Springstead until he was seventeen, when she died. He then 
worked among the farmers of Minden for four or five years. On March 9, 1842, he 
was married to Hannah Croii^ihite, daughter of John C. and Kate (Walrath) Cronkhite. 
They had six children, four of whom are living: Irving, a farmer of Canajoharie; Sarah 
J., wife of Eugene Link of Canajoharie; Ellen, wife of Amaziah Fake of Minden ; and 
Idela, widow ofWm. Link, lives at home. Mrs. Van Ness died in 1884, at sixty- six 
years of age. In 1854 Mr. Van Ness bought the old homestead, a fine farm of 140 
acres, increasing it by later purchases to] 180 acres; in 1887 he sold the farm, with the 
exception of about four acres, to his son Irving who now conducts it. Mr. Van Ness 
has built a fine house on his reserved piece and also new barns and other out buildings. 
He is a Republican. On November 4. 1885, Mr. Van Ntss was married to Sarah Cronk- 
hite, the youngest sister of his first wife. 

Van Slyke, Margaret, Canajoharie, a daughter of George and Catherine (Backer) 
Lasher, is the widow of the late John S. Van Slyke, who was born January 19, 1810, 
at Flat Creek, town of Root, a son of Samuel I. and Catherine (Mitchell) Van Slyke. 
Samuel was also a native of this country, but his father (the grandfather of John S.) 
was John Van Slyke, who came to this country from Holland. As near as can be traced 
he settled in Root, and was the father of seven children of whom Samuel was the second 
son. He married when about thirty-five years old, Catherine, a daughter of Wm. Mit- 
chell, who came to this country from Scotland. They weie theparenlsof five children : 
John S., Andrew, Robert, Richard, and Maria, who died in infancy. Samuel I. died 
February 7, 1851, aged eighty-five. His wife died May 9, 1828, aged fifty. John S. 
married, January 3, 1833, Margaret, daughter of George and Catherine (Backer) Lasher, 
The latter was a sister of George Backer of Palatine, whose name is famous in history 
as having fought a duel with Philip Hamilton, a son of Alexander Hamilton, in which 
Hamilton was killed. In 1850 John S, Van Slyke bought the farm where our subject 
now resides. It is a beautiful place containing 143 acres of good land devoted to the 
cultivation of hay and grain. He was the father of eight children : Catherine S., Anna 
M., Lydia M., Andrew, George, Eliza A., Agnes M. and Isabella C, but of these only 
three are now living: George, who lives in Palatine; Eliza A., who lives with her 
mother ; and Agnes M., the wife of Joseph G. Thrall of Gloversville. They have one 
child, Margaret S., who was born November 6. 1879. John S. died January 14, 1890. 
Mrs. Van Slyke's grandfather Backer was in the revolutionary war. 

Van Wie, Peter, Canajoharie, was born February 6, 1853, at the old home at Stone 
Ridge, and is a son of Luther and Mary M. (Collyer) Van Wie. Aurie Van Wie (son of 
John), the grandfather of Peter, was a native of Palatine, born about 1800. He married 
Margaret Neahr, and they had nine children, viz.: Henry, John, Luthei, Beniamin, 
Fletcher, Catherine, Agnes, Martha and Mary. Luther, third son and father of our 
subject, was also born in Palatine, July 27, 1832, and married, January 1. 1852, Mary 
M., daughter of Peter and Catherine (Smith) Collyer of Root. They had nine children, 
four of whom survive, as follows : Minerva, wife of Euclid Garlock of Canajoharie ; 
Cora, wife of Warren Lehman of Fonda; Arthur, a glove cutter of Gloversville: and 
Peter. The latter received his education in the common schools, and married, October 



150 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

28, 1874, Luella, daughter of Philip A. and Louise (Wessels) Rickard of Root. They 
have five children : Lula M., born February 23, 1877; Sheldon H., born January 11, 
1880; Leia, born December 11, 1881 ; Roy A., born Maich 5, 1886; and Elias E., born 
August 15, 1888. At the death of his father, July 7, 1884, Mr. Van Wie assumed the 
control and ownership of the homestead farm. He and his family are members of the 
Mapletown Reformed church. 

Van Deusen, Henry A., Cannjoharie, Sprout Brook p. o., was born on the farm of his 
present residence December 19, 1812, and is a son of Michael and Christina (Allen) Van 
Deusen. The earliest ancestor we can trace was Isaac Van Deusen, who was born 
December 18, 1704, at Great Barrington, Mass. He married Fiche Burgart January 

29, 1730, and they had a son named John (grandfather of our subject), born March 19, 
1737, and was married June IG, 1762, to Catherine Hollenbeck, and they were the 
parents of seven children. Michael was the fifth son. He was born January 27, 1778, 
was married February 14, 1808, at Schodack to Christina Allen. They were the parents 
of eleven children, eight are living : Margaret, now Mrs. David C. Winne, a widow of 
Salamanca ; Justice, Harlow A., a doctor of Sprout Brook ; William A., equal partner 
of H. A. Van Deusen in the homestead, also of Sprout Brook ; Oliver B., of Gowanda, 
Cattaraugus county ; Francis, of Van Horn, Iowa; Mary M., widow of Chas. Hibbard 
of Sprout Brook ; and Henry A., our subject. Michael Van Deusen came to Canajo- 
harie in 1811 and bought the farm known as the old homestead, a farm then of fifty 
acres but now of 150 acres. Our subject was educated in the public school and Whites- 
boro Academy. After leaving school he engaged as clerk with a dry goods merchant 
of Canajoharie. May 14, 1854, he married Eliza Clum of Canajoharie. When his father 
came to this section, in addition to the farm he bought a saw-mill and cloth-dressing 
and wool-carding mill. After he left the village store he went into business with his 
father until his father's death, February 1, 1853. His mother died March 3, 1860. In 
1849 they built a new mill ; they first manufactured cloth, and about 1865 turned their 
mill into a woolen yarn manufactory which they followed until 1884. Since 1857 Henry 
A. has been postmaster of the village with the exception of three years during Cleve- 
land's administration. 

Van Wie, Fletcher, Root, was born in Palatine March 17, 1841, a son of Aurie and 
Margaret (Nare) Van Wie. The grandfather of Fletcher was John, who was a son of 
Hendrich H. Van Wie, who came to this country from Holland prior to the revolution 
and .settled in Albany county, where he died in 1774. He purchased 300 acres in Pala- 
tine, and gave it to his children. John Van Wie settled on this tract and lived the rest 
of his days. He had five sons and two daughters. His son Aurie, the father of Fletcher, 
was born December 16, 1798, and in 1852 came to Root, bought 300 acres and resided 
there until his death, February 6, 1877. He was a Lutheran in religious belief, and a 
Whig and Republican in politics. His wife died May 28, 1869. She had five sons and 
four daughtiers : John, Henry, Benjamin, Luther, Fletcher, Catharine, Agnes, Martha 
and Mary. Fletcher was reared on the farm and received a common school education. 
At the age of about fifteen he took charge of his father's farm, and lived with and cared 
for him until his death. He now owns 150 acres. In politics he is a Republican. He- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 151 

married, July 4, 1861, Anna M. Edwards, who was born in Glen, a daughter of William 
H. and Eleanor (Mount) Edwards, natives of Montgomery county. William H. Edwards 
was a son of John Edwards, whose father came from Wales. Mr. and Mrs. Van Wie 
have five children : Aurie G., William H., Margaret, wife of John R. Blood ; John E. 
and one who died in infancy. The family are members of the Reformed Church. 

Wilde, Charles, jr., Amsterdam, Fort Johnson p. o , was born in the town of Amster- 
dam April IG, 1856, and is a son of Edward and Harriet (Plantz) Wilde. Edward 
Wilde was a son of Joshua Wilde. The early life of Charles, jr., was spent with his 
grandfather Plantz at Albany Bush, where he attended the district school. His father 
died in August, 1857, and his mother married again in 1867. Charles lived with her 
part of the time until 1875, when he engaged with H. B. Shepard in his grist-mill at 
Fort Johnson, where he remained five years, during which time he married Sarah M. 
Hanson of Amsterdam. Their union has been blessed with one child, Laura B., born 
January 4, 1881. In 1880 Mr. Wilde bought the farm of ninety-seven acres, a part of 
John McDonald's estate. The house, although now repaired into a modern building, 
was standing here before the revolution. Mr. and Mrs. Wilde are both industrious and 
a,mbitious and therefore prosperous and happy. 

Wittemeier, Frederick, sr., Tribes Hill, came to this country from Germany in 1850 
when sixteen years of age, and located in Schenectady, where he married Louisa Wes- 
sel in 1858, and his son Frederick was born. Frederick, sr. came to Tribes Hill in 1860, 
and engaged in farming. In 1861 he started the manufacture of brooms in which he 
is still engaged. He is assisted by his five sons in this business, and they conduct 
an extensive manufacture — about 40,000 a year. He is the father of seven children : 
Henrjf, William, John, Charles, Ella, now Mrs. W. H. Oterson ; Louise, and Fred- 
erick, jr., our subject. The manufacture of brooms is conducted by the last named 
on his father's farm of ninety acres, well adapted to hay and grain. Henry is the 
only son married ; his wife was Carrie Van Buren of Schenectady ; they are the par- 
ents of two children : Florence and Henry Harold. The factory employs twenty 
workers and manufacture.^ 20,000 dozen yearly, and it is run by steam power ; they 
procure broom corn from Illinois, Kansas, Nebraska, and handles from Wisconsin and 
Fulton county. They have a fine farm and very pretty residence. Previous to his 
marriage Mr. Wittemeier, sr. had traveled through the west and was very prosperous 
as a contractor in the copper mines at Lake Superior. He also worked at his broom 
trade at Buffalo, and was engaged in the manufacture of brooms at Columbus, Ohio. 

Ward, James H., Amsterdam, was born in Schenectady September 13, 1827 ; he was 
educated in the public schools of that city and at the age of fourteen he became a clerk 
for five years. Afterwards be learned to be a machinist ; he was married twice, first 
on February 2, 1850, to Elizabeth H. Cole of West Troy, by whom he had two chil- 
dren, a son and a daughter: J. Edwin, who married Elizabeth Tilford of Amsterdam 
and resides at Bradford, Pa. ; and Lillie J., who married William A. Shepard and resides 
in Syracuse. Mrs. Ward died May 26, 1880. August 21, 1882, for his second wife he 
married Mr.s. Kate A. Draper (Swits) of Schenectady. Mrs. Ward had two children by 
her first husband, Mr. Draper, one son and one daughter: Mary Belle, who married J. 



152 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Howard Pettit of Amsterdam ; they have one son, Ward H. ; and J. Clarence, who 
married Jessie French of Adrian, Mich., and reside in Detroit Mr. Ward came to this 
city in the year 186" and was in the foundry business in the fifth ward under the firm 
name of Ward, Perkins & Company. He has been superintendent of the Chucte- 
nuuda Gas Light Company of Amsterdam for fifteen years. Mr. Ward's father, Ja- 
bez. was a native of New Jersey and came to Schenectady as early as 1S12 ; he 
married Electa Dean, and had twelve children, eight of whom lived to be over fifty 
years old. Only two are living; James H. and Spencer C, who resides in Rochester. 

Winegar, Charles P., Amsterdam, was born in Greene couDty on the lOtb of Novem- 
ber, 1835, and moved to Albany county with his parents when a year old. He was 
educated in the public schools and Rensselaerville Academy, and graduated from 
Madison University in 1857, and in the year 1858 he was admitted to the bar at Platts- 
burgh. He published the first daily newspaper in Amsterdam and was a newspaper 
man as proprietor and editor twelve years. On the 10th of November, 1858, he mar- 
ried Mary E., only daughter of Thomas B. and Catherine Sammons of Amsterdam. 
They have thi ee children, two daughters and a son. One of the daughters, Flora, mar- 
ried Prof. A. P. Brigham of Colgate University ; and the other, Abigail S., married 
Harvey L. Finch, a merchant of Saratoga Springs. The son, William Hoadley, who is 
a student at Colgate University. Mr. Winegar's father. Rev. Reuben Winegar, married 
Ann H. Hoadley of Swanton, Vt., and was a prominent minister in the Baptist denomi- 
nation in the state of New York for over fifty years. They had three children, two 
sons and a daughter : Daniel H., Charles P., and Mary A. The family was distinguished 
in the early history of the valley. The Sammons family and their ancestors were in all 
of the patriotic wars. 

Wright, George. Amsterdam, was born in Florida December 31, 1843, and was 
educated in the public schools. He was a farmer until he attained the age of twenty- 
two, when he learned the carpenter's trade; in 1868 he came to Amsterdam and 
worked for others until 1871 when he began as a contractor, a business he still con- 
tinues. He has married twice first on December 23. 1869, to Julia Hart ; she died 
September 3, 1870. On' March 25, 1875, he married Mary Ellsworth of Canajoharie. 
They have a daughter, Grace C. Mr. Wright is a member of Woodbine Lodge, 
Knights of Pj'thias, and of the American Mechanics. 

Whitcomb, Calvin, Amsterdam, was born on the 22d of February, 1838, in John- 
stown, and in early life was a farmer in Glen. In the spring of 1866 he came to 
Amsterdam and entered the employ of Fieldhauer & Tan Buren, grocers, as clerk. In 
1871 he removed to Port Jackson and opened a grocery store, which he has since con- 
tinued. By his courtesy and fair dealing he has won the confidence of the public and 
enjoys a large and profitable trade. He is an earnest and steadfast Republican, and 
since he became of age he has taken an active part in politics. He held the position of 
postmaster of Port Jackson for about thirteen years. In 18S2 he was elected super- 
visor of the town of Florida and in 1887 he was re-elected; he served as chairman of 
the board that year, being the first Republican to serve in that capacity for many 
years; he was again put in nomination and elected. That spring Port Jackson was 



FAMILY SKETCnES 15S 

annexed to Amsterdam, which caused another election of supervisor for the Fifth 
ward. Mr. Wliitcoiiib was again renominated and re-elected, and has also been chair- 
man of the Republican county committee. Mr. Whitcomb is a member of the Baptist 
denomination and has been trustee about fifteen years and treasurer five years. All 
his honors have come unsought and have been the result of a desire on the part of the 
community for faithful and intelligent service. In September, 18G5, he married Har- 
riet, fourth daughter of Jacob Newkirk. They had three children, two sons and a 
daughter: Beecher, who died in infancy; Frazier C, who is a clerk for his father; 
Lilly, who resides with her parents. Mr. Whitcomb's father, Levi, was born in Spring- 
field, Mass., in 1797, and when a young man came to this stale and married Maria 
Miller of this county. They had three children, two sons and a daughter : Luther, 
Mary, and Calvin. Mr. Whitcomb's mother died in 1840. Tlis father married second, 
Phebe Hall, and had one daughter, Jane. 

White, George B., Amsterdam, was born on tlie Gtli of April, 1849, m the town of 
Milford, Otsego county, and came with his parents to Duanesburg when he was four 
years old. He was educated in the Albany Normal School and was prepared for 
college at Union School, Schenectady. In 1870 he entered Union College, graduating 
in 1874. He taught school, alternating with the study of law. He first read law with 
Ralph E. Prime of Yonkers, afterwards with B. Winslow Paige of Schenectady, and 
with Judge M. L. Stover of Amsterdam. In the year 1877 he was admitted to the 
bar. He first practiced in Troy, and in 1881 he formed a copartnership with Z. S. 
Westbrook, of Amsterdam, and remained with him for three years; since then he has 
practiced law alone. He was for two yearsjustice of the peace of Amsterdam, and in 
the spring of 1881 he was elected city recorder. On the 30th of January, 1884, he 
was married to Barbara T. Carver of Whitehall. They have two children, a son and 
a daughter: Georgia P. and Percy. The ancestry of the family is English and Scotch. 

Wait, Henry, Amsterdam, Hagaman's Mills p. c, was born in the town of Maryland, 
Otsego county, February 2, 1819, son of Philip and Lucretia (Rouse) Wait. His boy- 
hood days were spent at home until the age of nine, when he was left to shift for 
himself. When he was fourteen his father bound him out to a merchant by the name 
of John Becker, of South Wooster, for four years. Then he went to Albany and ac- 
cepted a position as clerk in Laisdell & Fassei's dry goods store. He remained in 
Albany until 1842, when his health failed. Then he went to Knox where his father 
lived on a farm, but his health was not restored. The next year he went back to 
Albany and went into partnership with his brother m a boot and shoe store on Broad- 
way, near Steuben street. In 1850 he gave up this business, but remained in Albany 
county for three years, after which he went to New York, engaging with Howes, 
Hyatt & Co. as a salesman, which occupation he followe<i until 1857, when he came to 
the town of Amsterdam, where he has since resided, and now owns a grain farm of 
ninety-seven acres. January 12, 1850, he married Susan A. Barney, daughter of 
Manley and Rachael (Miller) Barney of Saratoga county, who died March 20, 1888. 
They were the parents of one child, William Henry, born March 12, 1865. 

Walts, Gasheree, was born in Stark in 1830, and died in Minden, August 8, 1875. He 
married Diana Miller, and they had three children : Mary, wife of Herman Failing, of 



154 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMKRT COUNTY. 

Minden ; David : and Bnrtoo, a resident of Stark. Gasheree was a cheesemaker by 
trade, and establisheti the Frey"s Bush factorv in 1862, with which he was connected 
at the lime of his death. David, the oldest son of the above, was bom in Stark, 
Februarr 4, 1S54, and attended the district school of his native town of Minden. He 
had learned his fathers trade at the age of seventeen years, and is still conductinsr the 
Frey's Bush factory. He o}>ened a hotel and store at Frey's Bush in 1S90. A Repub- 
lican in politics, be has been ivjstmaster at Frey"s Bush since 1SS6. He married Ida, 
daughter of Jabei Pickard, and they have one chiKl, Nellie, 

Wemple, H. Seymour, town of Minden, was born in Mohawk April 26, 1S62. and is 
the second son in a family of seven children of Robert and Sarah i^Troonian) Wemple, 
He attended the locsl schools and Casenovia Seminary. leaving the latter institution in 
ISSO. His father owns the county asylum, and Mr. Wemple after leaving school, till 
1S82. assisted liis father in the management of its afiairs. In tne latter year he went 
to New Haven and for one year was cashier in John H. Starin's office in that city. He 
then came to Fort Plain and purchased from John Zeilly his present business, dealing 
in coal and farming iniplements. In politics a Democrat, he has been trustee of the 
village four years. He is a member of the Masonic Lodge, of the Order of Red Men, 
Knights of Pythias, and now is master of Fort Plain L<.>dge Xo. 433, F. <fc A. M. He 
marrieil Jennie, daughter of the late Samuel Fisher of Fulionville, and has two daugh- 
ter«, Mary Louisa and Gertrude Xare Wemple. 

Wiles Family, The, — Peter J,, son of John, was born in Minden July 26, 1S21, and 
married Melinda, daughter of John Brookman. She was born in Minden December 
22, lSi3, and died May 2, 1S79. Peter died February 20, 1S77. They had cliildren as 
follows: Mary, bom September S, 1S43, widow of Conrad Walster, resides in Minden; 
Lany Catharine, born Novemlier 16. lS4o, wife of John P. Casler of Minden ; John, 
born March 23, 1S49; Elmira. Kirn September 9, lSo6, wife of Tileson Dunckel of 
^linden : David, born March IS, 1S69, resides in Minden ; Abraham, born July 31, 
1S61 ; William, bom July 2, 1S63: and a daughter born January 2S, l!?42, and died 
August 2S. 1S42. William married Lany, daughter of James Alter of Minden, and 
they have two children, Reny and Leah. Mr. and Mrs. Dunckel have two children, 
Fayette and Cary. John, the oldest son, also a native of Minden, married Emma, 
daughter of George Flint. They have had three children, Alvin, who died in infancy ; 
Florence, bom June 30, 1SS2 ; and Effie, born December 2-1, 1SS7. Mr. Wiles is a car^ 
penter by trade, hut since 1877 has been engaged in farming. 

Wood, Edwin Wellington, Minden, was born in Middlefield, Otsego county, March 
2o, ISJO, and is the youngest son in a family of four children of Levi and Olive Wood. 
His father was a farmer, and his early life was spent in agricultural pursuits, and at- 
tending llie winter terms of the district sdiool. He was also a student at the Clinton 
Libera] Institute. In 1S40 he became identified with the grocery business, and in 1S42 
he was a member of the firm of Davis A" Wood of Cooperstown. He disposed of his 
interest in this firm in 1S44 and came to Fort Plain, and from that time until ISSl was 
engaged in the grocery business in the store now occupied by Wood & Smith. During 
this time he had various partners, aod part of the time was alone in business. The firm 



FAMri,V SICKTOIIRS. IM. 

oripritially consisted of himself, William Cliuk niul ('Imrlos Newkirk, tho finn name 
beins; Olark, Newkirk & Wood. t)n tlie retiivment. of Mr. Newkirk tlio linn was 
Clnrk it Wood, Tlion Jainos Hull ami William Olark, jr., lii'iMimo partners with Mr. 
Wood. tUe linn beiiif; Wood, Clark it Hull. Mr. Hall di,«|iosi'd of liis intoresl, and the 
firm of Wood, Clark it Co. was forn.od, the conipany boinj; Mr. Wood's son Ilcrliert, 
which continned until Mr. Wood's retirement in 1S81. In 18()4 he helped to organize 
tho Port Plain bank and became one of its directors, and in 187") was elected president, 
which position he also filled for the Fort Plain National bank, which was an ontjjrowth 
of Iho former institution. In I8()!), in connection with .lames Skipnian, who had re- 
moved his sprin;; and axle works from Sprinfrlield to Fort Plain, he helped to form tho 
Fort Plain Spring; and .Vxie company, and is now one of the fonr owners of the plant, 
and holds the prvsition of vice-president. He is al.so one of the live owners of the Fort 
Plain ICnittinc; Works and is president of the Fort Plain Oas and lOlectric Liijht company. 
A Repnblican in jiolitics, he has liever been an aspirant to political honors. Mr. Wood is 
interested in educational matters, and it was mainly Ihronijh his elVorls thiil the Climon 
Liberal Institute was removed fi;om Clinton to Fort Plain, and the site uliere the build- 
ings now stand, also the cost of the buildiniis and ihe land nt that time was jiiven by him 
to the institution. He is a member of the board of trustees. He married for his first 
wife, Emily. dau|.;hter of Herbert Cobnrn, and their children are : Rexy. wife of William 
Clark; Herbert C, .\lbert S, and lOunna, wife of I'j. K. Klwood. His second wife is 
Alice, daughter of Chandler D. Faulkner ot Uliea, and they haveone child. Chandler. 

Wendell, Frederick Fox, Minden, was born in Canajoharie September 18, 1SI8, and is 
sixth son ni a family of ten children of lienjnuiiii and Sarah (Fox) Wendell. Afier receiv- 
ing a common school education he attended the Fort Plain and Cooperslown Seminaries 
and graduated in 18()8 in a preparatory course from Cazenovia Seminary. In the fall of 
that year he entered the University of Michigan at .Vnn Arbor, from which he graduated 
in the fall of 1S7'2. Ho commenced reading law with his brother, John D., and in 1874 
formed a partnership with him, which was dissolved in 1883 on account of Mr. Wendell 
receiving the appointment of general tax agent for the West Shore railroad. The duties 
of this olliee comprise all the legal bnsine.-is of the road in reference to the taxes and real 
estate. A Republican in polities, Mr. Wi-ndcU has never been cidlcil upon by Ins fellow 
citizens to hold public olliee. He married Emma, daughter of Isaac Hush of Turin, Lewis 
county, who also graduated from Cazenovis Seminary. They haveone child, Irnia H. 

Wcller, Lester Myron, Minden, was born in Minden May 12, ISofl, the youngest 
child in a famdy of seven children of .lordan and Ann Miuia (niefendorf) Weller. He 
attended the public schools of Fort Plain and on necendier 14, 187;"), heconnnenced the 
study of law with Judge John D. Wendell, and was admitted to the bar January 31, 
1879. He then commenced the practice of his profession in the office of the late Judge 
George Yost, and subsequently formed a partnershii) with John S. Yost, thelirn) being 
Weller & Yost. This was dissolved in April, 1884, and Mr. Weller continned in busi- 
ness alone until May, 1885. when lie n.ssociated himself with his i)re.seiil partner, Joseph 
L. Moore, the finn being Weller & Moore. This firm has been connected with many 
important cases, among which may be mentioned the foreclosure of a mortgage given 



156 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

by George Clarke on over twelve thousand acres, divided into one hundred farms, 
which were all located in Montgomery county and the consequent litigation which ex- 
tended over a period of five years. They also in 1891 erected a three story brick ofBce 
building in Fort Plain, which is acknowledged to be the best building of Us kind in 
Montgomery county. Mr. Weller in politics is a Democrat, but has never been an 
aspirant to public office. He is the treasurer, also one of the trustees of the Clinton 
Liberal Institute and Fort Plain Military Academy. He married first, Emma, daugh- 
ter of Jeremiah Wagner of Fort Plain, by whom he had one child, Harrj- G. He mar- 
ried second, Clara M., daughter of Chandler D. Faulkner of Utica. 

Moore, Joseph Leonard, was born in Albany December 24, 1859, and is the youngest 
child in a family of two of Dr. Levi and Georgenia (Todd) Moore. After attend- 
ing the public schools he graduated in 1878 from the Albany Academy. He com- 
menced the study of law with James £. Dewey in Albany, and on the removal of 
that gentleman to Fort Plain accompanied him. He was admitted to the bar in 
1881, and practiced alone until he became a member of the firm of Weller & Moore. 
Politically he is a Republi-can. He married Annie L., daughter of Davis W. Bates, an 
attorney of Cherry Valley. They have one child, Leonard B. 

Walts. Reuben, Minden, was born in Minden, December 1, 184.5. His grandfather 
Jacob Walts, came from Stark to Minden in 1834, and bought the farm noW' occupied 
by his grandson. He died in Minden in 1852, at the age of sixty-two. He married 
Mary, daughter of Peter Elwood. Their children were David, Gasheree, Peter, a resi- 
dent of Steuben county ; Isaac, died aged fourteen ; Margaret, married Benjamin Fail- 
ing and died in Steuben county ; Polly, married Dexter Pickney, and died at Stark ; 
and Catherine, married Peter Dunckle and died in Minden. David, mentioned above, 
was born in Stark January 19, 1821, and by his first wife, Nancy, the daughter of 
Abram Dunckle, had four children : Wesley, who died in 1871 in Minden; Reuben ; Rosie, 
wife of Peter B. Moyer, of Minden ; and Mary, who died aged twenty-four. David died 
in Warren, January 16, 1866. Reuben Walts received only a common school education, 
and worked on his father's farm, which he has carried on since the latter's death. He 
married Anna, daughter of John Lumley, and they have had eight children : Mabel, 
who died aged twelve years; Harry, Edith, who died aged two; Emerson, Ray, who 
died aged four; Howard, Grace, who died aged five years, and Ivy. 

Wagner, Englehardt, was born in Mindeii, and was the son of Englehardt Wagner. 
He died in the town of Minden in 1823. He married Elizabeth Countryman, who died 
in Stark, in 1887, at the age of about one hundred yearis. Their children were: Mary, 
who married Martinius Pickard, and died in Minden ; Marcus, Andrew, who died in 
Stark; Sally, widow of Daniel Casler, lives in Minden; Charles, who died in Canajo- 
harie ; and Englehardt, who was born in Minden, September 18, 1823, and married 
Betsey Sneck. Their two children, Charles and Mary Elizabeth, both died in childhood. 
Marcus, son of Englehardt, was born in Minden, September 80, 1807, where he died 
June 2, 1857. He married Eliza, daughter of Henry I. Diefendorf. She died in Min- 
den July 7, 1886, aged .seventy-six years. The children by this marriage were: Ephraim 
M., and Eliza C, widow of Jacob H. Pickard, who resides in Minden. Marcus lived 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 157 

on the farm now occupied by his son. Ephraim M. was born in Minden, August 20, 
1830, and married for his first wife, Jane, daughter of Isaac and Mary Ann ZoUer. 
The issue of this marriage was Charhe E., a resident of Gloversville. He married sec- 
ond, Catherine, daughter of Peter Casler. His third marriage was with Clara Roberts. 
They have had four children: Cora D. and Clarence G., who died in childhood; and 
Lelah E. and Clara B., now living. 

Walrath, Emory, Minden, was born in Minden, February 2, 1860. His grandfather, 
Jacob Walrath, married hrst a Miss Wagner, by whom he had five children, viz. : 
Jacob, William J., Betsy, widow of Garret Sneck, who resides in Jasper; Sally, widow 
of Meyer Lambert; and Anna, who married Daved Geesler, and died in Minden. 
Jacob married second, Nancy Deck, and their children were Hiram, Amos, Emily, 
wife of David Lambert, of Minden ; Maria, wife of George Pickard, of Perth ; and 
Almira, who married William Geesler, and died in Minden. William J., the father of 
Emory, was born in Minden June 25, 1822, and married Lucinda Dunckle. Of their 
children three reached maturity, viz. : Mary E., wife of William C. House of Minden; 
Annie M., who married Emory Diefendorf, and died in Minden ; and Emory. William 
J. died August 3, 1885. Emory, of the above family, married Lydia Iffland, and has 
two children, Willie and Margie. He has always been a resident of Minden, and has 
carried on farming in connection with the shipping of eggs to New York and other 
markets. 

Winnie, Richard, Glen, was born on the Winnie homestead in Glen, November 3, 
1830. He was one of ten children of Major James and Jemima (Van Cise) Winnie. 
James was born in Ulster county in 1796, and came to Glen in 1803. His father, Luke 
Winnie, was born in Ulster county also, coming to Glen in early life, where he kept a 
hotel on the spot where Richard Winnie now lives, until his death. May 18, 1831, at 
the age of sixty-nine. His son James continued the hotel business for several years 
after his father's death. He was married in 1855 to Sarah Conover, who died a few 
years later. He subsequently married Elizabeth Stowitts, who died, leaving one son, 
James W., who lives with his father on the farm. Two other childien died in infancy. 
He married third, Anna M. E. Ostrom, who is now living. With the exception of eight 
years in the town of Root, and two years in Fultonville, Mr. Winnie has always lived 
in Glen, upon the farm where he was born. 

Wemple, Edward, Glen, was born October 23, 1843, he being one of six children of 
William Barent and Rebecca (Yates) Wemple of Fultonville (see sketch of Nicholas 
Wemple). He graduated from Union College in 1866, studied law for a time, then en- 
tered the foundry business with his father. He was elected supervisor of the town in 
1874, serving three years ; was elected assemblyman in 1877-78; was also elected to 
congress in 1882 ; then was elected state senator in 1886. He was also elected state 
comptroller in 1887, and re-elected in 1889. September 16, 1868, Mr. Wemple married 
Adelaide F. Qroot of Schenectady, by whom he has three children living : Grace 
Adelaide, wife of W. H. Parker; Alice Maude, and Edward Guy Wemple; three of 
their children having died young. Mr. Wemple's successful career shows his adap- 
tation to public life in which he has reflected credit on his native place^baving been 
always characterized by honesty, ability, and courtesy. 



15S HISTORY MOXTGOMERT COUXTT. 

Wemple, Xicholas, Glen, one of sis children of William Barent and Rebecca (Tales) 
Wemple. was born in Fultonville February 22, lS3-i; the others being Abrani (dead), 
William H., Edward. Frank P. and Ann Alida (Mrs. Francis W. Kip, jr.). William 
Barent Wemple, the father, was born in Caughnawaga ^now Fonda). August 16. 1S09. 
He moved to Fultonville in early life, where he engaged in many important enterprises 
among them the foundry now operated by his sons;. He served the town as supervisor 
and in other capacities for many years. He was married. March 14. lSo3, to Eehece* 
Yates, and died December 16, lSt39. His father, Barent I., was also born at Caughna- 
waga, September 12, 1778. He married Nellie, a daughter of Ralph Schenck. He died 
April 1, 1811. Johannes B.. his father, was also born in the same place. April 18, 
1731. He married Maria Yeeder of his town and their house was burned. May 22, 
1780, by John Johnson's Indians. He was captain in 4th company 3d battalion Tryon 
county militia, organized August 26, 1775. He joined St, George's Lodge, F. <t A. M., 
Schenectady, April 1. 1775. His father, Johannes (the great-great-grandfather of 
Nicholas^ married Catalina Schermerhorn June 15, 1700. In 1711 he was "of the 
Mohawk county on the Mohawk river." He was a large land owner, one of the trus- 
tees of the Schenectady Patent and with 6ve others contracted with colonial (Jovernor 
Hunter. October 11, 1711, for tlie erection of two forts, one at Onondaga, the other at 
Fort Hunter, within the enclosure of the latter was to be built a chapeL This was 
familiarly known as Queen Anne's chapel and was destroyed many years ago, but the 
parsonage is now the residence of D. W. Devendorf. He died October 14, 1749. His 
father, Myndert, was born ra 1649. He was apjx)iuted justice of the peace in 16S9. and 
was killed at the massacre of February 9. 1690. His father. Jan Barentse Wemple, 
was born in Dort, Lower Netherlands, Holland, in the year 1G'20. He came to Amer- 
ica in a Dutch vessel in 1640. He was one of fifteen original settlers of Schenectady 
county. He died in 1663. His father, Johannes, was born, lived and died in Dort, 
Lower Netherlands, Holland. Nicholas Wemple was married first to EliEabeth S. £mpie 
of Ephratah, who died April 9, 1S69. She was the mother of three cliildren : Carrie 
and Ella, who died in childhood, and William Barent Wemple, jr., who was born Sep- 
tember 29, 1S66, and who was married, Jane 15, 1S92, to Gertrude Lillian, a daughter 
of John B, and Lillian Gertrude (Lipe) Berry of Fonda. Nicholas Wemple married 
second, Margaret, daughter of William W, and Jane Ann Kline, In 1856 he entered 
the foundry business with his father, where he has since remained. He has served as 
president of the village and has been prominently identified with the Masonic order. 

Wessell, Joseph P., Glen, was born on the Printup homestead (his mother's home) 
in Glen September 5, ISoO. He was one of two children, the other being Lucre- 
tia (Mrs, William Tan Wie) of Jacob and Ann Lesley ^Printup) Wessell, Andrew 
Wessell, his grandfather, is believed to have been born in Root His wife was Nancy 
Rudolpk The fatlier of Ann Lesley was Joseph, and her mother Lucretia Huginen 
Printup, Joseph P, Wessell, married December 9, 1874, Eliz-ibeth M. Bellinger of 
Root, one of thirteen children of Colonel William and Eliza (Putnam) Bellinger, the 
others l>eing Mary, Margaret (widow of David Jones). Caroline (Mrs, George W. 
Putnam), William, Wiufield and Clarence, Bellinger and John, Lewis and Andrew, 
three having died youug. Her grandfather was John Bellinger. They have one child^ 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 159 

Mamie L. Wessell. ^^r. Wessell has spent nearly all liis life on the farm where he was 
born. 

Wemple. Adam Z., Glen, wa* born in i[oha\vk January 26, 1S55, and was one of 
seven children of Robert and Sarah (Trooman) Weniple of Mohawk, the others being 
Catharine Mary (Mrs. Sylvanus Qnackenbiish) ; H. Seymour, Gertrude (Mrs. Ezra Nare); 
Evanna (Mrs. Peter Schuyler); Sarah (Mrs. Ed. Ryan); and Marsliall F. Wemple. 
Adam Z. was married, October 24, 1S7", to Lydia Wilson, daughter of Ira and Sarali Jane 
{Schuyler) Wilson of Mohawk. They have four children : Harvey D., Florence N., 
Robert, jr., and J. Schuyler Wemple. Mr. Wemple has lived in the town of Glen 
twenty-four years and for the past eight years has been in charge of the county alms 
house. 

Warren, R. Deveue, Canajoharie, was born in Warren. Herkimer county, October 
25. 1SG2, and is a son of Charles E. and Mary (Tan Antwerp) Warren. As far hack as 
we can trace the ancestry of this family they were natives of this State. Richard 
Warren, grandfather of R. Devene, always made his home in Herkimer county. He 
was the father of four children, all of whom are living : Roselle, of Richtield Spa. ; 
Helen, wife of R, D. Whiteman, a dry goods merchant of Mohawk ; Albert, a boot and 
shoe merchant of Mohawk ; and Charles F., father of our subject, a farmer in Canajo- 
liarie. He was born September 14, 1S30, in the town of Warren, and made his home 
tliere until 1870. February 5, 1856, he married ilary R., daughter of Daniel and Eliza 
(Armstrong) Van Antwerp. They have had three children : Daniel M., born Novem- 
ber 22, 185", died November 10, 1860: Alice, born March 10, 1859, married James R. 
Scott of Brooklyn June 16, 1880. and died April 5, 1891, leaving three children — 
Florence B., Ethel Q., Warren : and R. Devene, subject of our sketch The early life 
of the latter was .spent in Warren. He was educated in the Mohawk graded schools 
and at the age of twenty-six engaged as clerk in the general store and post-office of M. 
Countryman at Ames, where he remained two years, duiing which time he bought the 
undertaking business of Grenville Scott (deceased) in the village. In the summer of 
1892 he took a course of instruction at Syracuse in the school of embalming, conducted 
by S. A. Sullivan, receiving his diploma June 30, 1892. Mr. Warren has made a great 
success of his profession, and is gradually building up a trade second to none in the 
town. He is a member of the Methodist church at Ames. 

Wheeler, Charles W., Canajoharie, was born on the 25th of April, 1834, in Ames and 
is a son of Willard R, and Laura (White) Wheeler, tlie former a native of Connecticut 
and the latter of Canajoharie. The father, a descendant of Josiah Wheeler, one of the 
original " Boston Tea Party," was a merchant at Ames many years, a Democrat in 
politics and was supervisor of the town. He was a member of the Masonic lodge and 
was one of the founders of the M. E. Church at Ames. He was a son of Isaac Wheeler. 
Our subject's maternal grandparents came from Connecticut at an early day and settled 
on a farm in this town ; both families were of English origin. Mr. Wheeler was edu- 
cated at the village school and graduated at the Canajoharie Academy. In early life he 
engaged in the insurance business, which he has since continued. He was elected 
justice of the peace in 1865 and has held that otfice ever since. He studied law and 



160 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

was admitted to the bar in 18S7, and is now actively engaged in the practice of his pro- 
fession at Canajoharie. On the 30th of January, 1850, lie married Nancy E. Cowen- 
hoven of Datch ancestry. She was a daughter of John E. and EHzabeth (Tan Alstine) 
Cowenhoven. The latter family was among the very early settlers of the county and 
among the influential families of the Mohawk valley. Jlr. and Mrs. Wheeler have three 
children: Willard R., a plumber; John C, a lawyer; and Elizabeth. Mr. Wheeler is 
a Democrat in politics and is one of the oldest Masons of Hamilton Lodge No. 79 ; he 
has been master of the lodge several times and H. P. of Hiram Union Chapter No. 53 
R. A. M. He is a genial and much respected citizen. 

Wessels, Richard L., Canajoharie, was born at Flat Creek August 16. 1827, a sou of 
Luke, jr., and Aveline (Van Epps) Wessels. The great-grandfather of Richard L., Luke 
Wessels, was born in Holland and came to this country with his father when 
a boy. They settled first at New Yoik, between the years 1750 and 1760. His 
father took up sixty acres of land on Manhattan Island. After the father's death, Luke 
and a brother left New York, the latter settling at Wessels Hill and Luke at Flat Creek. 
Luke has four sons: Abram, Isaac, Luke, and Cornelius. The third son, Luke, was the 
grandfather of our subject. He was born a Flat Creek in 1780, and in 1799 he married 
Tonica Van Valkenburg of this town. Of their three sons and three daughters but one, 
Lucretia, is now living. She is the widow of Elias Lasher, of Spraker's Basin. Luke, 
the son, was the father of Richard L. He was born June 20, 1802, at Flat Creek, and in 
1823 married Aveline Tan Epps of Fultonville, by whom he had ten children, all living : 
Abram of Pennsylvania; Evert of Dakota ; Elisha of Texas: John of Amsterdam; Luke 
of Colorado; Tinnetta, wife of George Rowledge of West Galway ; Elizabeth, wife of 
Henry Mead of Hoflraan's Ferry; Jane, wife of Jacob Mowers of Currytown; Peter 
A. of Giflbrd ; and Richard L. The early life of the latter after the age of ten was 
spent in Cherry Talley, where he married, July 3, 1849, Anna M., daughter of Richard 
Horning. They have had six children, but two of whom survive : Silas Addison, a 
physician of Canajoharie ; and Nora, wife of John Miller of Ames. In 1867 Mr. Wessels 
bought his present farm in the village of Ames, a beautiful farm of 223 acres. Mrs. 
Wessels died May 14, 1889, and Mr. Wessels married second, Hannah E., daughter of 
Philip Smith of -this town. The marriage occurred March 11, 1891. They areactive 
workers in the church, and Mr. Wessels is trustee and class-leader of the Ames M. E. 
Church. 

White, Dr. Joseph, Canajoharie, was born on the 9th of May, 1800, at Chatham, Conn., 
and when five years of age came with his parents to Middlefield, Otsego county. Hi* 
early life was spent in hard labor on the farm and at the age of twenty-one he began the 
studj' of medicine with his second cousin, Dr. Joseph White of Cherry Talley, who was 
then one of the leading physicians of the county. In 1821 he joined the Masons and 
took a great interest in the workings of the society; he was chairman of the committee 
of foreign correspondence from 1852 to 1872. In 1824 he began to practice at Penfield, 
but soon after ill health obliged him to seek a milder climate and in 1831 he went ta 
Washington, D. C, and opened a drug store. In 1832 while there he had the cholera, the 
first time it appeared in the country. In 1835 he bought a drug store in Cooperstowa 



FAMILY SKETCHES, 161 

and in 1S38 he exchanged it for a dnig store in Canajoharie. For several years in com- 
pany with Mr. Marsh he was engaged in the manufacture of trusses. He continued the 
practice of medicine until the fall of 1878 when increasing ill health compelled him 
to retire. On the 20th of March, 1845, he married Marietta, a daughter of Abraham 
and Ruth Johnson Roseboom. She was born on the 30th of March, 1813, in the town 
of Cherry Valley. Her father was a prominent farmer and owned several thousand 
acres of land in Otsego county ; the town of Roseboom was named after him. Dr. and 
Mrs. White had three children, all living, as follows: John R., born March 25, 1846; 
Sarah E., born October 27, 1848 ; and Joseph H , born August 29, 1885. The W hites 
trace their ancestry to one Elder John White, who came to America about 1695. He 
was one of the first settlers of Cambridge, Mass., and lived within the college grounds 
of Harvard. 

Worden, Rev. Alonzo T., of Ames, was born in Oneida county, April 15, 1841, and 
is a son of Calvin and Julia Ann (Teall) Worden, both natives of the Stale. His father 
was a descendant of Isaac Worden of Quebec, originally a French family of 
the name of De Warden. The grandfather of Alonzo T. settled at Stephentown about 
1800. His mother was a daughter of Rev. H. V. Teall, who was a pastor of many of 
the Christian churches of central New York. Our subject at the age of nineteen found 
himself in Minnesota at the outbreak of the rebellion, and at once became a soldier in 
Company A, Second Minnesota Volunteer Infantry and served three years in the war. 
He was at the battles of Mill Springs, Shiloh, Chickanianga, and Chattanooga. He was 
especially mentioned for bravery at the latter battle, in the Minnesota State History. 
At the close of the war he studied for tlie ministry and became a pastor in the Free 
Baptist church. He was eight years pastor at UnadiUa Forks, and has been ten j'ears 
at Ames. The two beautiful churches at Ames and Marshville have been built under 
his pastorate. He iias been a writer for the press for several years. Among others 
for Judge and Frank Leslie's Newspaper. His poems of light character may be found in 
many collections. He is a pensioner of the war and a member of the G. A. R,, and has 
been selected on many occasions as the orator on Decoration- day. In May, 1870, he 
married Sarah E., daughter of Peter Whittaker of Oneida county. They have had six 
children, four of whom are living: May, wife of George Turnbull of Ilion ; Carrie, 
Kittle, and Hattie. Mr. Worden has been a Prohibitionist in politics since 1880, but 
formerly was a Republican. He is a member of the Masons of Blue Lodge third 
degree. 

Wiles, Abram, Canajoharie, Buel p. o., was born in the town of Minden July 20, 
1825, a son of John, jr., and Laney (Yorden) Wiles. The great-grandfather of our 
subject, Joseph Henry Wiles, was born in Germany, and came to this country before 
the war of the revolution, and was an officer in the continental army during that war. 
His son John was born in 1776 and was the father of thirteen children ; only one is 
living. Catherine, wife of Henry Yorden of Minden, eighty-eight years of age. John 
Wiles, jr., father of our subject, was the oldest son ; he was born November 19, 1797, 
and married Laney Yorden, daughter of Adam Yorden of Stark, March 17, 1822. They 
were the parents of nine children and three are now living: Sarah, w-ho lives with 
Abram; Menzo, an agent at Johnstown; and Abram, our subject. When the latter 



162 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUXTY. 

was two years old his parents moved into the town oE Canajoharie on tlie farm now 
occupied by Charles A. Wiles; Abram lived on that farm until ISGl, when he bought 
the farm of his present residence. It is a fine one of 100 acres. March 14, 1850, 
he was married to Mary C. Flint of Minden, and their union has been blessed by four 
children: John C, born September 23, 1851 ; Charles A., born May 14, 1855 ; Laney 
Marie, wife of Jonas Cooper of Canajoharie. born June 24. 1S60 ; A. Kdward, born 
March 28, 186". Mr. Wiles is one of the leading farmers of this tdwn, owning 225 
acres of the best land jn the vicinity. He has always been a supporter and attendant 
of the PresViyterian Church at Buel. 

Wilson, William H., Mohawk, son of J. W. and Betsey (Wallace) Wilson, was born 
in Ballston, December 12, 1814. When he was three weeks old his father moved to 
the town of Watervliet William H. received a common school education. When he 
was fifteen j'ears old he assisted his father, who was engaged upon the railroad, then 
being built between Albany and Schenectady (the first in the state) by keeping time 
books and other services. In 1835 his father had a contract on the (then) Utica & 
Schenectady R. R.. now the X. Y. C. R. R.. under which William H. acted as foreman, 
having charge of the workmen. In 1837 he married Evaline Weaver, who bore him 
five children : John W., a farmer at Canastota ; Albert C, who was a soldier in the late 
war; Floyd B., a distinguished lawyer in Xew York and well known orator and 
literateur ; Annie E., who resides at home : and Warren, who died in infancy. In 1837 
he bought the Halfway House between Albany and Schenectady ; in 1844 the hotel 
was burned, when he built the house that is now standing. In 1852 he moved to Tribes 
Hill and bought a farm of 100 acres, which he carried on until 1872, when he retired 
and settled in Fonda. His wife died February 18. 1888. They were members of the 
Dutch Reformed Church. Mr. Wilson has been assessor and trustee of the village, and 
town assessor. 

Wilson, John W., Mohawk, a son of J. W. and Betsey (Wallace) Wilson, was born 
July 2, 1821, in Albany county. When he was nineteen years of age his father moved 
to Amsterdam. In 1848 he, in company with James W. Kline, opened a store at Tribes 
Hill, and in 1856 opened a general store at Fultonville and carried on that business for 
a few years. He then sold out and opened a drug store, which he carried on fourteen 
years. He has been secretary and treasurer of the Montgomery County Agricultural 
Association. He is a Republican, and a charter member of Fultonville Lodge No. 531, 
F. & A. M., having joined in 1859. He has been secretary and treasurer several year.s. 
He IS also a member of Johnstown Chapter No 78, R. A. M., and a member of the Holy 
Cross Conimandery No. 51. K. T. of Gloversville. In 1853 he married Mary Davis who 
died in January, 1859, and their only child in the following month. In ISCO he mar- 
ried Louise, daughter of Daniel Spraker, and they have had one child, who died in 
February, 1865. 

Wagner, Nathan, Palatine, was born in Palatine December 20. 1818, and is a son of 
Peter P. Wagner, a son of John Wagner, whose father was Colonel Peter Wagner, a 
son of Peter Wagner, who came from Hamburg, Germany, and settled in Schoharie 
county, and afterwards, in 1772, on the (arm now owned by J. Harvey Smith in Pala- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. IGS 

tine, where he died. Col. Peter \V:ii;ner was heir to tliis farm, which reiiiiuiied in the 
Wagner family many years. John Wagner was born in Palatine, and married a Miss 
Allen, who bore him the following chddren : John, Peter P., and I'lzariah. He married 
second, a Miss Bleecker. His death occurred about 1S30. Peter P. Wagner was born 
in Palatine in 1788, was raised on a farm, and married Mary, diuighter of John Ficle. 
Their children were as follows: Nathan, Edward, Ezariah, Lucinda, Maiy A., Julia A., 
and Amelia. Mr. Wagner was assessor and constable, and he and his wife were mem- 
bers of the Lutheran Church. He died in 18'JG and his wife in 183C. Nathan Wagner 
war raised on a farm and was educated at the common schools. His father died when 
he was seven years of age and his mother when he was thirteen. When he was fifteen 
he had control of the farm he now owns. He married Nancy, daughter of John Gramps 
of Palatine, who bore him three children as follows: Peter, John, and Menzo (de- 
ceased). Mrs. Wagner died May 23, 18C0. May 21, 1862, he married Eliza, daughter 
of Col. Nicholas Wagner, son of Peter Wagner, whose father was Col. Peter Wagner 
above mentioned. Nicholas Wagner was born in Palatine and married Elizabeth Kel- 
ler, who bore him the following thildren : Nancy, Eliza, Catherine, Gertrude, Julia, Ann 
and Nicholas. He was in the war of 1812, was a Lutheran, a Mason, and died in 18U0; 
his widow died in 1882. 

Wessell, Jacob, A., Root, was born at his present residence January 21, 1837, and is 
a son of Peter L. and Clarissa (Wessell ) Wessell. His grandfather was Luke Wessell, 
a son of Luke who came from Kinderhook to Charleston prior to the revolution, and 
in 1765 located on 250 acres of land (where Jacob A. now resides) in Flat Creek. He 
was a carpenter and millwright, and built the first saw-mill on Flat creek, which he 
operated. He was a Democrat in politics. He married Jane Hugoner, and they had 
three ."ons and three daughters. His son Luke, grandfather of Jacob A., died in July, 
1860, aged over seventy years. His wife was Lenetta Van Valkenburg, and they had 
three sons and three daughters. His son, Peter L., was born on the homestead May 
17, 1810, and resided in the town all his life. Of his six children, five survived: Luke, 
James, Jacob, Elizabeth, and Cyrus. Peter L. died May G, 1887, and his wife survives 
him. She was a daughter of Luke and Elizabeth (Vine) Wessel, who were early set- 
tlers of the town of Root, and of Holland descent. Jacob A. Wessell received a dis- 
trict school education, and is of the fourth generation who have lived on the homestead. 
He is a Democrat in politics, and is active in the service of his party. He married, 
December 6, 18G0, Ellen Fox, who was born in Schoharie county, a daughter of Charles 
and Catharine (Wagner) Fox, natives of Schoharie and Montgomery counties respec- 
tively. Mr. and Mrs. Wessell have two children : Clara, wife of J. Cook Van Valken- 
burg; and Birdilla, wife of Grant Smith. In April, 1888, Mr. Wessell lost the house 
erected by his great-grandfather, it having been destroyed by fire. 

Young, Henry Charles, M. D., Hagaman's Mills, was born at Tarrytown August 11, 
18G1, and is the son of William H. and Melissa A. ( Soules ) Young. Mr. Young's 
parents were formerly of this section, his father's birthplace being Amsterdam, his 
mother's Broadalbin. In 1863 his parents moved to Sing Sing where they remained 
until 1868, when they returned to Amsterdam. They remained here about eight years, 



164 HISTORr OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

where Henry received his primary education, and then moved to Schenectady to give 
him the advantage of better schools, and prepare him for entering Union College, from 
which he graduated July 1, 1884. In the fall of that year he entered Albany Medical 
College, graduating March 16, 1887. He then went to New York to take lectures at 
the College of Physicians and Surgeons, and attended clinics at the hospitals. Jul}' 5, 
1887, Dr. Young started in practice in Hagaman's Mills, and married, September 16, 
1891, Jennie E. Reddish, daughter of Mrs. John Reddish of this place. 

Young, Norman, Minden, was born in Minden March 30. 1836. His great-grand- 
father, John Young, was a native of Germany, and settled on a farm about two milei 
east of Mr. Young's present residence, and which is now known as the '' Dingnian 
place." He had one son, John Christian, the grandfather of our subject, who was born in 
Minden, where he died February 28, 1835, aged eighty years. He was twice married, and 
by his first wife he had the following children : Jacob, who died in Wisconsin ; Christian, 
who died in St. Lawrence county ; Abraham, who died in Minden; David, who died in 
Springfield; and Nancy, who married John Eaton, and died in Fort Plam. His second 
wife was Margaret Shunk, and their children were : Nicholas ; George, who died in 
Worcester; Henry, who died in Springfield; Lawrence, who died in Minden; Daniel, 
who died in the South ; Mary, who married Nicholas Jordan, and died in Stark ; and Ger- 
trude, who married Abraham Bellinger, and died in Stark. John Christian removed to 
the farm now occupied by his grandson, Norman. Nicholas, father of Norman, was born 
in Minden Decembers, 1804. He married Mary Witmire, and their four children are: 
Norman, Margaret, wife of John Adam Pickard of Fort Plain ; Catharine, wife of George 
Flint of Minden ; and Charlotte, wife of Nicholas Stawits of Root. Nicholas died in 
Minden August 16, 1884. Norman Young married Lany Hoflfmail, and their children 
areas follows: John Edward, single, resides with his father; Alvin, died when seven 
years old; Willard, a farmer of Minden, married Grace Kessler and has two children, 
Willard, jr., and Florence; Anna, wife of William Wohlgemuth of Minden; Mary J., 
wife of Albert H. Eckler of Stark ; Carrie, unmarried ; Minnie, wife of William Crura of 
Minden ; Arthur J., died at the age of nine years ; and Nicholas D., unmarried, and resides 
with his father. 

Yost, Daniel, Mohawk, son of Peter, was ooru in 1839. He was graduated from Union 
College in 1861, and after reading law with Carroll & Smith, he was admitted to the bar 
in 1864. He located in Fonda, and has practiced there ever since. He was clerk of the 
Surrogate's court for four years. His wife was Emily A,, daughter of Eli Pierson of 
Johnstown. They have one child, Eli. Daniel Yost is an able lawyer, and is also a 
genial citizen and highly esteemed by all his extensive acquaintance. 

Yost, Peter, son of Jacob, was born in Johnstown in 1802. He was a farmer, and 
married_Sarah, daughter of Michael Moore. They had six children, three sons and 
three daughters, four of whom reached maturit)'. He died in 1850, and his wife in 
1861 or 1862. 

Yoran, Levi W., Palatine, was born in Amsterdam, December 27, 1854. His father 
was Jonas Yoran, and his grandfather was Jacob Yoran, who married Miss Pettibone, 
and they had eight sons and eight daughters. Jonas Yoran was born June 10, 1820, 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 165 

raised on a farm and educated at the common scliool, being remarkably proficient in 
mathematics. In 1841 lie married Catherine (born in Amsterdam), daughter of 
Micliael and Sallie (Whitmore) Wert. They had sixteen children, of whom one son 
and five daughters survive. He was a farmer and a carpenter, and later a manufac- 
turer of paper at St. Johnsville and Garoga. The last sixteen years of his life were 
■pent at Rockwood, where he died January 26, 1892. His widow resides in Rock- 
wood. Levi W. Yoran when a boy began working in a paper-mill, which he followed 
for fifteen years, when he was made foreman of the mill, and has held that position 
since. In 1882 he married Emma J., daughter of Ezekiel and Sallie (Allen) Mathews 
of Johnstown. Mr Mathews died some years ago ; his widow is still living at 
Johnstown. Levi W. and wife have one child, Mabyn, born December 7, 1887. In 
1882 Levi came to Palatine and engaged in the manufacture of straw board, and has 
since followed that business. He employs six men, and manufactures about 175 tons 
a year. He is a Democrat, and belongs to the Stone Arabia Grange, No. 690. 

Zoller, Jacob I., Minden, descended from the original settler, Jacob Zoller, one of 
four brothers, Jacob, Henry, Casper, and Andrew, and one sister. The four brothers 
settled near Fort Willett, in Dutchtown, the sister remaining in New York, where 
she married. Jacob Zoller was shot through the shoulder in the battle of Oriskany 
and with Andrew was taken prisoner. Andrew returned, but Jacob was never after- 
wards heard from. Henry, his oldest son, inherited the farm under the old English 
law. Jacob I. was born in Minden, where he died June 8, 1863, at the age of eighty- 
six years. He served in the war of 1812, and was stationed at Sackett's Harbor. He 
married Catharine, daughter of John Christian and Elizabeth Ehle. She was born 
August 30, 1782, and died October 29, 1868. Their children were John I. ; Mary, 
born May 9, 1807, widow of Henry I. Crouse, of Mindenville; James, born April 20, 
1809, resides near Ogdensburgh ; Jacob, born July 29, 1811, died aged seventeen years; 
Josiah, born September 27, 1813, built the Zoller house at Fort Plain, which he ran 
for a number of years, and died at Fort Plain ; Henry Chauncey, born December 18, 
1815, resides in Columbia, Herkimer county; Abraham, born May 6, 1818, died Sep- 
tember 27, 1854, at Racine; Catharine, born October 25, 1821, widow of John C. Van 
Camp, lives at Otranto, Iowa ; John I., the oldest of the family, was born in Minden, 
March 9, 1805, and married Eliza Sanders. They had eight children : Catharine 
Elizabeth, died young ; Jacob, Abraham P., resides at Fort Plain ; Martha, wife of 
Robert Smith of Hallsville; Mary, resides in Minden; Catharine, wife of Peter Miller 
of Lockport ; Libby, died aged thirteen ; Charles, married lanthe Klock, now resides 
on the old homestead farm. Jonn I. died November 15, 1891. For several years he 
carried on the mercantile business. He was also member of assembly from Mont- 
gomery county in 1843. Jacob, the oldest son of the above family, was born in Min- 
den April 15, 1833. He served four terms in succession on the board of supervisors, 
and married Mary Jane Dygert. They have five children : John I., Maude J., Thomas 
J., and Abram and Zaida (twins). Mr. Zoller is engaged in the wholesale produce and 
provision business in Little Falls. 

Zoller Family, The. — The first of this family to come to this country settled in the 
Mohawk Valley during the revolutionary war. They were from Switzerland. Jacob 



166 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and Andrew were in the battle of Oriskany ; one was killed and the other died soon 
after. Henry and Casper ZoUer, who were brothers, came and located in the now 
town of Minilen. One sister married and located in New York; all trace of relation- 
ship lost. Henry married Nancy Youngs, and had the following family : Abraham ; 
John ; Gertrude, who married Charles Garlock, and died in Herkimer county; Eliza- 
beth, married Henry Miller, and died in Minden ; Katie, married George Fake, and 
died in Herkimer county; Mary, married ilartin Duesler, atd died in Root; and 
Nancy, married John Miller, and died in Jefl'erson county ; Henry died December 12, 
1831, aged eighty years six months and four days. Abraham, the first one mentioned 
above, was born in Minden in August, 1782, and married Mary, daughter of Jacob 
Moyer. They had ten children: Daniel, died in Minden in 1835; Nancy, married 
Jacob Baum, and died in Minden ; Elizabeth, married Solomon Devendorf, and died in 
Minden; Mary, widow of Jeremiah Walrath, resides in St. Johnsville; Catharine, 
widow of Isaac Walrath, lives in Fayette county, Iowa; John A., is a resident of Fort 
Plain, and is connected with the Zoller Lumber Company ; Abraham, for over twenty 
years was connected with the United States treasury department at Washington, and 
is at present in Europe ; Henry ; Nancy, wife of James Kelly, lives in Herkimer 
county ; and Caroline, wife of Henry Moyer, lives in Fayette county, Iowa. Henry, 
the youngest son of the family, was born in Minden, July 13, 1827 ; his education was 
obtained at the local schools and Little Falls Academy. His father was a farmer, and 
until 1857 he was engaged in farming. Disposing of his farm in that year, he went to 
Omaha, and for five years carried on a grocery and pork-packing business. In 1862 
he drove thirty head of cattle west over the plains, and finally located at Bannock 
City, in what is now Montana, where he engaged in mining. He remained in this 
locahty two years, when he returned to Fort Plain, and the year after returned to Mon- 
tana with a stock of general merchandise. This time he remained sixteen months, and 
returned east to Albany, where, until 1 884, he was engaged in the fruit and vegetable 
business. In the latter year he became a resident of Fort Plain, and since that time 
has been interested in the lumber business. He is a Republican in politics. His first 
wife was .Julia, daughter of Daniel Groff, by whom he had two children : Seward H., 
who is engaged in building railroads in Cuba; and Eva May, who died in Fort Plain. 
Mr. Zoller married for his second wife Margaret, daughter of Daniel GrofF. John, son 
of Henry, was born in Minden January 15, 1790, married Peggy Keller March 26, 
1815 ; they settled on the homestead and continued farming. John died in 1862, and 
his wife in 1876. They had sis children : Isaac, born August 25, 1816, married Mary 
A. Hall, and died in 1858; Anna, born September 6, 1824, married Peter Moyer, and 
died in 1856; Caty, born April 12, 1822, married Jacob Snyder; Eliza, born March, 
16, 1824, married John G. Bander; Solomon, born September 1, 1827, married 
Catharine Diefendorf ; Helen, born July 14, 1836, married Peter B. Moyer. Solomon 
is now occupying the old homestead and also the Abram Zoller farm. He is a Demo- 
crat and held the office of supervisor a number of years. He had two sons: Isaac and 
John. John died in his ninth year ; Isaac married Cora A. Dunckel and has one 
child, John D., which is the fifth generation on the same farm. 

Wetterau, Henry, Canajoharie, was born in Germany November 2, 1834, and is a 
son of Lawrence and Mary Wetterau. Henry came to this country in 1854, and 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 167 

located first in Brooklyn, where be remained but a year and then came to this county, 
first to Sprakers, where he remained a short time, then removing to Canajoharie. 
In 1858 he bought the first part of his present farm, ten acres, to which he has added 
until now he has upward of sixty acres, which comprises a fine farm, and which he 
carries on with great success. He has raised hops for about eighteen years on a 
moderate scale, but is now extending that branch of farming, having in all nearly 
fifteen acres of one of the finest yards in this section of the country, and by his 
industry he has well earned the reputation of being a model farmer. August 4, 
1859, he married Hannah Greavy, who came to this country from Germany in 1856. 
They have had four children : Carrie, wife of V. J. Allen of Johnstown ; Henry C, 
engaged in mercantile business in New York ; Frederick G., a stenographer, who is 
now studying for the bar at the University of the City of New York ; and Eliza- 
beth, wife of Abram Yost of Johnstown. Mr. Wetterau is an ardent Republican, 
having voted for every Republican candidate from Abraham Lincoln down to the 
present time. He and his wife are members of the German Lutheran church at Cana- 
joharie. 

Vedder, John D., Glen, is the only son of David and Ann (Schuyler) Vedder, and 
was born January 21, 18G3. David, the father, was also born in Glen, and is one of 
six children of John and Elizabeth (Ostrom) Vedder of that town, the others being 
John O., Nancy, Maria, all living; and Abigail and Elizabeth, deceased. John Vedder, 
the grandfather, was born in this county as was also his wife. Their ancestors were 
natives of New Jersey, who afterwards moved to Albany county, and still later to this 
town. Ann (Schuyler) Vedder, the mother of John D., was one of five children of 
John D. and Margaret Ann (Van Home) Schuyler; the others being: Daniel, Elizabeth, 
wife of Daniel Van Home ; Hannah, widow of Milton Hewett; Antoinette, wife of 
Cornelius Van Home. His great-grandfather was Daniel Schuyler of Florida. 

Van Home, Abram, Glen, was born on the old Van Home homestead in the town of 
Glen November 22, 1829. He was one of nine children of Cornelius and Hannah 
(Van Home) Van Home. Cornelius C, his father, was also born on the homestead 
January 15, 1794, his wife Hannah being a native of Florida, where .'^he was born July 
4, 1796. Cornelius Van Home, his grandfather, was bcin at White House, N. J., May 
18, 1745. When twenty- one years of age he emigrated to Montgomery county, and 
setted in Glen, marrying Eva Frederick of Florida. The Van Home ancestry is traced 
without a break, back to the year 1634, and among many facts of inleiest is the record 
of the marriage of Cornelius J. Van Home to Anna Maria Jans, daughter of Anneke 
Jans of New York, the ceremony taking place October 4, 1G59. Abram Van Home 
was married to Anna Newkirk January 1, 1856. They had four childien: Edgar, mar- 
ried Henrietta De Forest and second Kizze Shelp ; Catherir.e (Mrs. Myron Overbaugh); 
Amy (Mrs. Edwin Leach); and Seeley Van Home. 

Saltsman, Ward Beecher, Minden, was bom in Palatine December 5, 1868, and is 
the youngest son in a family of three children of Jacob I. and Julia N. ( Gray ) Salts- 
man. His early education was obtained at the district schools, and he also attended 
the Brockport State Normal School, the Clinton Liberal Institute, and Eastman's Busi- 



l«g HETORT OF MOKTGOICEST COrSTT. 

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170 HISTORY OF MON'TGOMERT COUNTY. 

the firm was dissolved by Mr. Stilwell retirinsr and Adam Smith joining it, making the firm 
B. & A. Smith. This firm commenced, in 18G0, wilh James Arkell, the business of mak- 
ing flour sacks, which is continued to the present lime under the firm of Arkell <fc Smith, 
and which had in 18G5 reached such an immense extent that Mr. Smith gave up the 
store and devoted alt his time to it. He was one of the most accomplished and success- 
ful business men of the present day, and was always distinguished for integrity and 
fair dealing. In December, 1884, he died and Cannjoharie lost one of its most honored 
citizens. He left at his death, besides his wife, five children : William N. (of Arkell 
& Smiths' factory) ; Mrs. Charles G. Peltit, and Edward S., also of Canajoharie ; Dr. 
J. L. Smith of San Antonio, Texas!, and Mrs. J. E. C. Pedder of the same place. Mrs. 
Smith is a daughter of Rev. W. N. Scholl, formerly pastor of the English Lutheran 
•church of Canajoharie, and a clergyman deeply beloved by all who had the pleasure of 
his acquaintance. 

Salisbury, Henry K., Amsterdam, was born in Seward, Schoharie county, on the 31?t 
of July, 1834, and graduated from the Carli.-le Academy. His father (the late J. H. 
Salisbury) was a lawyer of more than usual abiliiv, and had few equals before a jury. 
He was also a member of the legislature in 184S. representing Schoharie county. He 
married Eliza M.. daughter of Charles F. and Catharine Wagner Fox of Argusville. 
They had five children, one son and four daughters : Ella, who married David Max- 
well of Charleston ; Carrie, married Watson P. Harvey of this city ; Charles F., who 
is associated with his father in the Erie Knitting Mills, under the firm of H. K. Salis- 
bury & Son ; Margurette, who married E. B. Xoble of Albany ; and Minnie Kate, who 
married John E. WiUoughby, city editor of the Amsterdam Daily Democrat. Mr. 
Salisbury's father was born in Carlisle in July, 1807. He married Margaret Quacken- 
boss. They had five sons and one daughter: Ann M., died at the age of six; Wash- 
ington, Henry K., Julius C, Warren F., and John H., jr. Mr. Salisbury's great- 
grandfather, Joseph, was in the revolutionary war. They are among the earliest 
settlers of Schoharie county. 

Noonen, WiUiam C, Amsterdam, was born in the house where he now lives in the town 
of Amsterdam, January 20, 1860. a son of Michael and Mary A. (Clark) Noonen. 
Michael Xoonen was a son of Thompson and Katharine (Hough) Noonen. The name 
of Hough is one of the oldest in the valley, as they came hither before the revolution, 
and Katharine was a daughter of John George and Charlotta (Lefler) Hough. John 
George was born on February 15, 1740, and died September 20, 1813. Bis wife was 
born October 25, 17^8, and died 3Jay 13. 1SC9. Katharine was born February 16, 
1772. and married in June, 1792. She died August 3, 1851. Thompson Noonen died 
July 10, 1830. He was the father of ten children. Michael, one of the number, was 
born November 11, 1802, and married Mary A. (Clark) (Kline) Noonen, March 30, 1859. 
They were the parents of two children : John M., born December 27, 1861, died Jan- 
uary 18, 1885, and William C, our sulject. The latter was educated in the Johnstown 
and Amsterdam academies, with a full course in the Bryant & Stratton Commercial 
College Institute at Bufi'alo. After leaving school in 1881, he became book-keeper for 
3. Baker of Buflalo for about a year and a half, then engaged with the Farmers' Nat- 
ional Bank of Amsterdam, continuing for about ihiee and a half years. From there he 



FA3XILT SKETCHES, 171 

went to Thomas <t Pettenprill's hosiery milll, and after a short time joined as partner 
■with T. Peck in the maniifai-ture of brooms. foUowin? this business t.U the fall of 1869. 
Dnrins this time he visitetl Omaha to improve some property there of which he is the 
owner. He now makes his home on the old homestead, a .srrain and hay farm of ninety- 
seven acres, about as good a farm as can be found in northern Amsteidam. 

Lipe. Ephraim. hay broker, was bom Jaly 14, 1S3~, and is a son ot Adam I. Lipe, a 
n&tire of the town of Root, who was bom Jane 2S, 1794, and died on his seventy- 
eighth birthday. He was the son of John Lipe, a German, who settled on the farm be- 
fore the revolution, and was killed by a nmniitg horse while attempting to cross the 
road very near our subject's residence. Ephraim Lipe was bom and brought up on this 
farm. His mother was Catharine Rickanl, of German ancestry and of revolutionary 
fame. He married at Canajoharie, February 23, ISGO, Eliza A. Wood, a daughter of 
Abram Wood, a commission merchant and farmer, who belongs to one of the oldest 
families of the county. He lived on the farm until 1S84 when he moved to the village 
of Sprakers. and from there in 1S90 to Canajoharie. He is in the wholesale hay trade, 
and has for the last twenty-five years done the larsest business in that line in the Mo- 
hawk vallev. the firm being E. & W. H. Lipe. Mr. and Mrs. Lipe have six children, 
three sons and three daughters ; Walter H. is the oldest : the next. Marie E.. who is 
the wife of W. E. Tompkins of Tarrytown ; then Fred W.. who is also connected with 
the firm ; Walter H. and Raymond P. are connected with the Imperial Packing Com- 
pany of Canajoharie, a stock company doing a large business. The two younger are 
Bertha Virginia and Jennie Lawson. Mr. Lipe is a staunch Republican, and always 
looking out for the interests of his country. 

Borst, Henry T., Amsterdam, was born at Cobleskill in Jnly, 1853 : his father died 
when he was eleven years old and he was immediately thrown npon his own resources j 
he started to teach school, working on a farm during vacations ; he educated himself at 
the Cobleskill Free School. Brockport Jformal College, and Cornell University. After 
leaving Cornell he studied law with Judge Lament at Cobleskill for one year and then 
entered the law office of James C. Dewey, then of Albany, where he continued his 
law studies, at the same time taking a course in the Albany Law School. He was ad- 
mitted to the bar in May, 1877, and in a few days graduated from the Albany Law 
School, being one of the four speakers at the commencement exercises. In January, 
1878, he located in Fort Plain and formed a co-partnership with D. C. Shults. Mr. 
Borst was elected district attorney of Montgomery county in 1883 by about 700 major- 
ity. In January. 18S8, he was appointed by Governor Hill county judge of the same 
county, and was nominated by his party for that office in the fall of the same year but 
was defeated by seventy-five majority, although COO ahead of his ticket. On his ap- 
pointment to the office of county judge he removed to Amsterdam and formed a law 
partnership with Judge Westbrook. The firm still continues and enjoys a large prac- 
tice. Judge Borst has always been a Democrat, and in every campaign sit:ce he was 
twenty years old his services have been in demand as a public speaker on the stump 
and on other occasions. 

Bailey, James B., Amsterdam. Tribes Hill p. o.. was born in Connecticut October 27. 
1833, a son ot William and Catherine (Blake) Bailey. In 1S38 he came with his par- 



172 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ents to Fulton county, where tliey lived but two years, when they came to Tribes Hill 
where Mr. Bailey has since resided. He was educated in Greenville Academy, under 
Professor Hand and finished under Professor Bannister at Johnstown Academy. After 
leaving the academy in 1853 he taught .school for about ten years; during this time he 
married Mary Schuyler, January 19, 18o0, a daughter of Winslovv and Elizabeth Schuy- 
ler. They have lost two children, and Mrs. Bailey died February 15, 1884. In April, 
18GG, Mr. Bailey went info the mercantile business in his present location, in partner- 
ship with H. T. Hull, whose father, Dr. A. W. Hull, had conducted the store for many 
years. He bought his partner's interest in 1868 and conducted the business alone until 
1887, when he was joined by W. H. Johnson as a partner. The post-office is located 
in their store, and has been for over twenty-five years. Mr. Bailey was married to 
Julia H., youngest daughter of Franklin Van Husen of this town, September 8, 1885, 
who died October 21. 1889. Mr. Bailey has never been interested in politics; his 
highest ambition is to be an honest, upright citizen. He is highly gifted as a vocalist 
and organist and his services in the Tribes Hall Church are fully appreciated. The firm 
of Bailey & Johnson is the only general supply store in Tribes Hill. 

Burtch, A. H., Mohawk, son of John and Hannah (Hall) Burtch, was born in Sara- 
toga county on the 4th of February, 1835. In 1844 his father removed to Fonda, 
where he resided until his death. A. H. Burtch was educated at the common schools. 
After leaving school he learned the carpenter's trade with his father. In 1856 he was 
appointed deputy postmaster ; in 1860 he was made clerk of the Surrogate's Court, 
which position he filled for two years. In 1862 he was elected county clerk, serving 
six years. He has been in the mercantile trade for four years. June 1, 1887, he was 
again appointed clerk of the Surrogate's Court. Mr. Burtch is a Republican, and has 
served his party as a member of the county committee since 1867, being chairman of 
the same since 1886. He is a member of Fulton Lodge F. and A. M., and of the Holy 
Cross Commafidery of Gloversville. On January 1, 1858, he married Charlotte A. 
Horton, who has borne him six children. Frank F., son of A. H. Burtch, was born 
March 5, 1862 ; he attended the public schools of Fonda and the Eastman Business 
College of Poughkeepsie. At the close of his schooling he worked several years in a 
sash and blind factory, and in 1885 formed a partnership with his father under the 
firm name of A. H. Burtch & Son. In 1886 John M. Marcellus purchased the interest 
of A. H. Burtch and the firm Burtch & Marcellus continued business until April 1, 
1887, when it was changed to the Stone Store Shoe Co. In 1890 Frank F. Burtch 
was appointed postmaster of Fonda. He was superintendent of the water works for 
three year.=. In October, 1880, he was married to Cora L. Phillips of Fort Plain. He 
is a past sachem of the Caughnawaga Tribe of Red Men and a member of Royal Ar- 
canum, No. 1405, and Fultonville Lodge F. & A. M. 

Casler, George B., Minden, was born in Minden, August 7, 1864, and is tlie second 
son in a family of five children of Jeremiah and Amelia (Pickard) Casler. His father 
was a farmer, and his education was limited to the district schools. He was engaged 
in agricultural pursuits until March 20, 1888, and he then became a clerk in the insur- 
ance office of A. Cary, and on May 1, 1890, became a partner. The firm was dissolved 
on account of the death of Mr. Cary in 1891, and the business is now carried on by Mr. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 173 

Casler. This was the first insurance agency to be established in Fort Plain, and was 
started December 4, 1840. Every class of insurance can be obtained at this office, and 
Mr. Casler is the representative of the following companies: Connecticut Mutual Lite, 
and Travelers Life and Accident; the Aetna, Phoenix, and Connecticut Fire of Hart- 
ford : Franklin File of Philadelphia; Springfield Marine & Fire of Springfield ; Home 
Fire of New York, besides the following foreign fire insurance companie.s: Lancaster 
of Manchester, England; British Mercantile of Liverpool, England, and Edinburgh, 
Scotland ; and the Caledonia of Edinburgh. Mr. Casler is a Democrat in politics. 

Gary, Alfred, Minden, was born at Litchfield, Herkimer county, March 31, 1812, and 
was the second son in a family of six children of William and Lydia (Trask) Cary, 
After attending the local schools he became a student at the Cedarville High School. 
At the age of eighteen he went to Utica, where he learned the trade of mason. After 
his apprenticeship he went to Canajoharie, where he remained a few months, and in 
1833 came to Fort Plain, and from that time till 1840 was engaged in building. In the 
latter year he opened an agency for fire insurance, with which he was connected until 
his death, January 17, 1891. He was a Republican in politics, and was postmaster in 
Fort Plain during President Lincoln's first administration. He married, December 19, 
1838, Zilpha L., daughter of Timothy and Zilpha Snow of Litchfield. 

Crane, Frank B., Amsterdam, was born at Elizabeth, N. J., on the 4th of April, 1861, 
and was prepared for college at Schenectady Classical Institute. He entered college 
then, where he took the regular course, including civil engineering, graduating in 1885. 
On the 1st of April, 1890, he was appointed city engineer of Amsterdam. Mr. Crane's 
father, Martin, was born in New Jersey and married Julia A. Harris of his native state. 
They had two children, a daughter Sarah B., and Frank E., who was married October 
20, 1892, to Emma W. Myers of Amsterdam. His mother and sister reside with him 
in this city. 

Devendorf, Dewitt A., Florida, was born in Florida May 2, 18G3. He was one of 
eight children of Dr. Henry A. and Rachel (Pettingill) Devendorf. When about 
seventeen years of age he became interested with his father in the manufacture of 
brooms on the farm. In 1887 he went into the business on a larger scale, built a 
factory with modern improvements, having a capacity of 110 dozens brooms per day. 
The increase of the business is such that a new building is now being erected, which, 
when completed, will more than double the capacity of the enterprise. Mr. Devendorf 
was married September 28, 1887, to Agnes B. Hudson, one of three children of Boyd 
R. and Emma (Van Buren) Hudson of Glen. She died February 14, 1891, leaving two 
children, Henry Hudson and Dewitt Boyd Devendorf. The residence of Mr Deven- 
dorf is the historic "Queen Anne's Chapel parsonage," of revolutionary note, and 
which was built in 1711, and is the oldest house in the county. 

Diefendorf, Yates, Root, was born August 29, 1847, a son of Cornelius and Cathar- 
ine (Yates) Diefendorf. The latter were natives of Root, Cornelius having been born 
in 1820. He died in 1880, and his wife survives him at the age of sixty-three. She is 
a member of the Reformed Church. Cornelius was a Democrat, as was also his father 
Henry I. Yates received his education at Fairfield Seminary, and has always followed 



174 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

agricultural pursuits. They own 227 acres of land, comprising the homestead of his 
grandfather. He married, in 1874, Helena, daughter of William H. and Lavina Sprong 
of Sharon. Mr. and Mrs. Dietendorf have two children, Carrie and Earl. They are 
member.^ of the Reformed Church, their membership dating back fifteen years. Mr. 
Diefendort is interested in another farm besides the one on which he resides, and also 
in the Flat Creelc Cheese Factory. 

Dahlen. Daniel, Palatine, was born in Germany, March 20, 1832, came to America and 
settled in Nelliston. He married first, Elizabeth Swartz, and they had one daughter, 
now Mrs. Beck of Nelliston; he married second, December 10, 1868, Rosena, daughter 
of -John and Barbara (Walrath) Shellhorn of Germany (parents of two daughters and 
one son). Mr. Dahlen and wife had six children ; Daniel G. (deceased), William F., 
Frank (deceased), Nellie M., Harry J., and Daniel. Mr. Dahlen was a mason and built 
most of the brick blocks in Canajoharie and Fort Plain. He was president of Nellis- 
ton three years. He and his farady were members of the Lutheran church at Fort 
Plam. He died September 2, 1885. 

Ehle, Henry B., Canajoharie, was born in Canajoharie on the farm now owned by 
Norman Countryman, September 27, 1822, and is a son of Daniel and Magdalen (Cornue) 
Ehle. Harmanus Ehle, great-grandfather of Henry E., came from Germany previous 
to 17G0; of this tliere is no doubt, as Harmanus, the grandfather of our subject, was 
born m this country in 1762. He had five brothers: Jacob, father of Abram Ehle; 
Anthony, twin brother of Harmanus ; Michael, John, William, and Peter, and three 
sisters. Harmanus the second was born in this town in 1762 and he and his twin 
brotlier Anthony were in the war of the revolution. They were musicians, and would 
change off; whde one was playing the other would fight. Harmanus married when 
about twenty-eight years old, Betsey, daughter of Daniel and Sally (Wessels) Cornue 
of Canajoharie. They were the parents of three sons and three daughters : Herman, 
Daniel, John, Sally, Eliza, and Maria. Daniel, the second son and father of Henry 'E., 
was born March 8, 1 795. He served a short time in the war of 1812, and at the age of 
about twenty-two married Magdalen, daughter of Peter and Jane (Quenaw) Cornue, 
and they had nine children, eight of whom survive : Eliza, wife of Luke C. Walrath of 
Palatine; Eli.«ha of Gloversville; Maria, widow of the late John J. Walrath of Minden; 
Jane Ann of Mapletown ; Marcus, a mechanic of Marshalltown, Iowa; Sarah of Can- 
ajoharie; Abram B. of Des Moines; and Henry E., our subject. When Henry E. was 
in liis eighth year his fatlier bought the farm on which the former now lives, and where 
he resided since the purchase. He was educated in the common schools, and married, 
July 21, 1851, Alinira, daughter of Henry and Margaret (Sailor) Failing. Theyliad five 
children : Daniel, who conducts the homestead farm ; Herman H., a produce dealer of 
Gloversville ; Maggie, wiio lives at home ; Eliza, wife of Charles Empie of Sharon 
Centre ; Ardella, wife of John C. Gove of Rural Grove. Daniel Ehle was born on the 
old homestead, December 1, 1852. He was educated at Port Lighton and in select 
schools, after leaving which he taught school winters for fourteen years. Oc- 
tober 29, 1879. he married Gertie, daughter of John and Nancy (Green) Rice of Palatine, 
and they have three cliildren: Mertie, born February 20, 1882; Virgil, born February 
2, 1884 ; Ledro, born June 13, 1886. Mr. Ehle has a fine farm of 100 acres. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 175 

Edwards, Frank, Glen, was born in Glen March 7, 1857, he being one of nine children 
of William H. and Eleanor (Mount) Edwards of Glen. The others were John, William 
H., M. Mount, Stephen O., Seeber, Anna M., wife of Fletcher Van Wie ; Elizabeth and 
Eleanor. William H., the father, was born in 1817 and was one of seven children of 
John and Ann (Van Schaick) Edwards. The father of John was William, who wae 
born in Wales. His wife, Christina, was of German descent. William H. Edwards 
had two brothers, John V. B. and Thomas, and four sisters, Anna Maria, wife of 
Stephen Ostrom; Margaret, Antoinette, wife of James Baihite ; and Jane, wife of 
Newton Van Derveer. Eleanor Mount, his wife, was one of six children of Matthias 
and (Van Vechten) Mount of Glen, the others being Benjamin, Jane, wife of Hen- 
ry Snook; Rebecca, wife of Garrett Lansing; Kate, wife of William Seeber; and 
Margaret, wife of C. Yates Seeber. Frank Edwards married, November 12, 1884, 
Hannah Van Home, one of three children of Schuyler and Elizabeth (Shelp) Van Home 
of Glen, the others being Cornelius, and Alice, wife of William H. Voorhees (see sketch 
of Schuyler and Van Home). They have two children, Elizabeth and Irene. 

Ehle, ^bram, Canajoharie, was born on the farm where he now lives, September 27, 
1799, a son of Jacob and Jennie (Van Evera) Ehle. His grandfather was a native of 
Germany and came to this country about 1745, locating near Canajoharie, where he 
bought the farm now occupied by Charles King. He was a widower and married 
Elizabeth Miller just before starting for this country. They had seven children : Peter, 
captain of a boat on the Mohawk during the revolution ; Anthony and Herman (twins), 
the former a captain of State militia; John, who died a middle aged man, leaving one 
son, Herman I., who was the leading merchant of Canajoharie for many years; Lena, 
Nancy, and Jacob, the father of Abram. Jacob was the youngest son and was born in 
1765 near Canajoharie. He acted as sentry in Fort Ehle during the revolution, and 
married at the age of about thirty, Jennie, daughter of Rynier Van Evera of Canajo- 
harie. They had five children: Ellinor, Elizabeth, John, Maria, and Abiam. Mrs. 
Jennie Ehle died in 1805, and Jacob married second, Rebecca, daughter of Benjamin 
Higgins of Canajoharie in 1810. They had four children, of whom but one lived to 
adult age, Fannie Arndt of Milwaukee. Abram, our subject, has always made his home 
on this farm, which his father sold to him about 1850. He was educated in the common 
schools, and on October 20, 1840. married Esther, daughter of John Reed of Exeter, 
Otsego county. Three children have been born to them : Alonzo W., a maible dealer 
of Canajoharie ; Louisa Clark (deceased), who had one son, Devere of Illinois; and Cad- 
die Smith, who married William J. Ball of Illinois. Mr. Ehle is one of the oldest men 
in this town, and a representative of the earliest settlers in the county. He was been a 
member of the Reformed church at Mapletown for over sixty years, Chailes A. Ehle 
was born in Root November 12, 1864, a son of Alonzo and Elizabeth (Hibbard) Ehle. 
He has always lived in this town. He was educated in the graded schools at Canajo- 
harie, and January 28, 1885, married Delia, daughter of Henry S. and Henrietta (Mallette) 
Smith of Sharon, Schoharie county. In 1882 Mr. Ehle took charge of the homestead 
farm, which he bought in 1891. It contains 190 acres. 

Finehout, Edgar D.. Minden, was born in Minden May 16, 1851. His grandfather, 
Aaron Finehout, was born in Minden and died.-^in Canajoharie. He married Catharine 



176 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Keller, and their children were : Henry, Peter, James, Aaron, John, Margaret, who 
married Solomon Norton; Daniel, and Kate, who married Elisha Dorr. Of this family 
the only .survivors are: Henry, who resides at St. Paul, Minn.; John, a merchant at 
Canajoliarie ; ilargaret, widow of Louis Russell, who lives at Liverpool. Aaron, the 
father of Edgar D , was born in Minden October 17, 1824. He married Catharine M,, 
daughter of George and Mary Lintner. They had a family of seven children, viz.: 
Edgar D., who married Estella, daughter of Truman Wikoff, and who reside on the old 
homestead farm, on the Cherry Valley turnpike ; Arthur, died unmarried, aged twenty- 
six years; Anna, married Willard White, and died in Canajoharie; Mary, wife of Will- 
iam R. Lewis of Cherry Valley ; Frank, who married Libbie Van Camp of Fort Plain, 
and who died aged thirty-one years; Cora, wife of Frank Winnie of Cherry Valley ; 
and Kittie, wife of George Fox of Canajoharie. Aaron was always engaged in farm- 
ing, and was a Democfat in politics. He died in Minden April 24, 1877. 

Failing, Henry, Canajoharie, was born just west of Canajoharie June 18, 1799, and 
died September 9, 1892. He was a son of Captam John and Maria (Timmerman) Fail- 
ing. At the time of the exodus of the Palatines from England, a member of the family 
of Failing was one of the emigrants. This was the great-grandfather of Henry. His 
son, Henry Failing, was a soldier in the battle of Oriskany. He married Catharine 
Wagner, and they were the parents of five children : John, Joseph, W'arner, Peter and 
Elizabeth. John, the oldest son, was born about the time of the revolution, and mar- 
ried Maria Tiinmerman of Dutchtown. They bad ten children: Henry, Nancy, Julia, 
Benjamin, Abram, Elijah, Polly, Sally, Margaret and Elizabeth. John was a soldier, a 
captain of a company in the war of 1812, and was in the battle of Sacketts Harbor. 
Henry Failing, grandfather of the subject, was one of the earliest settlers in this town 
and located on the river road on the present Wagner farm, and when Henry was about 
six years old his father bought a farm at Frey's Bush where he lived, and died in 1845 
Henry married in June, 1823, Margaret Sailor, who was born August 13, 1799, and 
they had four children : Alniira, w-ife of Henry Ehle of Canajoharie ; Adam, a farmer 
of Illinois; Norman, who died November 12, 1891, aged sixty-three years; Harman, 
who died in infancy. Mrs. Margaret Failing died December 3, 1835, and Mr. Failing 
married, second, Sally Sailor, a sister of his first wife. They had one child, Alvin, a 
printer of Canajoharie. Sally died in 1840. He married for his third wife, Eliza, daugh- 
ter of Jacob Seeber of Minden, and they had three children: Harvey S., who conducts 
the homestead farm ; Nora, wife of John W. Ressique of Canajoharie ; and Jacob H., 
who died in infancy. Eliza Seeber Failing died January 23, 1882, in her eighty-fourth 
year. In 1847 Mr. Failing bought the farm which his son now conducts. Harvey S. 
Failing was born March 11, 1849, on this farm. He was educated in the Canajoharie 
Academy, and married, October 16, 1872, Frances C, daughter of Oran and Eliza 
(Showerman) Goble of Baldvvinsville, and they have five children : Alice, Lizzie, Nora, 
Howard and H-^nry (twins). Mr. Failing is one of the active members of Mapletown 
Grange No. 613, and has held the office of steward in that order. 

Ferguson, John, Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam April 6, 1839 ; he 
was educated in the public schools, and at the age of sixteen years he began to learn 
the blacksmith's trade. At the end of his apprenticeship he bought the shop and has- 



FAMILY SKETCHES 177 

since conducted the business alone. The increase of the property has doubled several 
times in the period of thirty-seven years. He married, March 16, 1861, Marietta, second 
daughter of Tuluc and Anna Cooley of Amsterdam ; they have one daughter, Anna 
Belle, who resides in Troy. Mrs. Ferguson died March 17, 1878. May 6, 1880, he 
married Mary L., daughter of John and Sarah ( Daly ) Serviss of Florida. Mr. Fer- 
guson's father, John P., was born in Scotland and came with his parents to the United 
States when he was six years old ; he married Eliza Van Wormer, and had six children, 
five sons and one daughter : William. John J., Wallace, Alraan, Mary E. and Marcus ; 
his father went to California in 1849, and was never heard from again ; his mother died 
in August, 1867. Mr. Ferguson is a member of Bronson Steamer Company No. 2, 
is also a member of the Knights of Pythias, Chuctenunda Lodge No. 100, and Amster- 
dam Lodge No. 134 of I. O. 0. F. 

Farmer, Thomas J., Palatine, was born in Brooklyn July 24, 1840. His father was 
Joseph S. Farmer ; bis grandfather wag Thomas' Karmer ; and his great-grandfather was 
also Thomas, who, with three brothers, came from England and settled near New Bruns- 
wick, N. J. Thomas, the grandfather, married Rachel Still ; they had three sons and 
two daughters and both died at New Brnnswiek. Joseph S. Farmer was born in New 
Bi-unswick, received a common school education, and was a clerk and a sailor. He mar- 
ried Margaret Suydam and had four daughters and three sens. In 1849 he went to 
California, returned to New York and engaged in the commission business. He next 
went to Illinois and followed farming for a time; returned to Rockwood, and finally 
settled in Johnstown, where he spent the remainder of his life, dying, however, in New 
Brunswick while on a visit in February, 1889. He was a Mason and Odd Fellow. His 
wife now lives in Johnstown aged seventy- five years. Thomas J. Farmer was educated 
in the public schools of Brooklyn. From the age of fourteen he has followed a mer- 
cantile career in various places, both as clerk and proprietor. He married February 15, 
1872, Minerva (Peeler) Swan, widow of Hiram Swan. Mrs. Farmer was born Sep- 
tember 29, 1844. Her father was Elijah Peeler, born May 15, 1819, married Helen M. 
Washbyrn, January 5, 1843, had three sons and four daughters, and died August 17, 
1884. His widow resides in Nelliston. Her grandfather was Jeremiah Peeler, who mar- 
ried Maria Thumb, by whom he had four sons and four daughters ; he died in 1873, and 
she in 1860. Thomas J. Farmer and wife have the followmg children : Gertrude, Helen 
M., Thomas J., Hazel. He is a member of Mohawk Valley Lodge No. 66, K. of P. His 
wife is a Good Templar and a member of the W. C. R. of Fort Plain. Mr. Farmer has 
been president and a trustee of the village. 

Fi.sher, Frederick, Mohawk, is the son of John and the grandson of Frederick, The 
latter came to this country from Germany and first settled near Schenectady, and after- 
wards two miles south of Fonda, on the farm now owned by H. H. De Grail' John 
was born in 1792 on the old farm. He married Barbara Gross. In 1816 or 1817 hi- 
settled on the farm now owned by his son Frederick, and spent his life there. He died 
January 1, 1858. His wife died six years earlier. They had five children, of whom 
Frederick is the only survivor. He was born December 20, 1813, and married Sarah 
A. Buxton. They have had six children, of whom only Sarah and Newman J. sur- 



178 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

vive. Frederick has been assessor twice, coramissioner of highways three terms, and 
in the spring of 1882 was elected justice of the peace. His wife died March 27, 1881. 

Greeley, William. Minden, was born in Sprakers, town of Root, April 22, 1864, and 
is the youngest son of Patrick and Mary (Rooney) Greeley. His education was ob- 
tained in the district schools, and his father was a farmer till 1872, when he removed 
to Sprakers. In 18S4 he came to Fort Plain and engaged in the restaurant business, 
and since May 1, 1889, has been sole proprietor of the European Hotel and Restaurant. 
In politics Mr. Greeley is Democratic. He is an active member of the K. of P., and is 
captain of Bander Division No. 22 of Fort Plain, He is also a member of Otsqiiago 
Lodge No. 507 I. 0. 0. F., Gyantwaka Tribe No. 170 of the Improved Order of Red 
Men. He married Luemma, daughter of Sidney Smith of Minden, and they have two 
children, Nellie and Evelyn. 

Gordon, Winne, Canajoharie, was born on the farm where he now resides in Canajo- 
harie, August 26, 1864, and is a son of Alexander and Margaret (Hanson) Gordon. The 
grandfather of our subject, David Gordon, was born near this place in 1780 and has 
always made his home in this section. His first wife was Mary Cox, and they had 
seven children; Phenic, Alvin, Alexander, Lysander, Mary A., Evangeline, and Emi- 
letta. Alexander, the third son, was born May 30, 1820, and was educated in the 
common schools. At the age of twenty-six years he married Margaret Hanson, and 
they had three children : Austin, a cabinet-maker in Johnstown ; Alice, wife of Elmer 
Morrell of Ames ; and Winne. The latter has always lived on the farm on which he 
now resides. He was educated in the Ames Union Free School and at the age of 
eighteen he began farming on this place, which he has since followed. April 1, 1891, 
he bought the farm where he now lives, which was known as the old Gordon farm. 

Garlock, Euclid, Canajoharie, was born in Canajoharie on the farm now occupied by 
George Retallick, April 21, 1844, and is the son of Elijah and Nancy (Smith) Garlock. 
George, grandfather of our subject, was the father of five children : Benjamin, Leonard, 
Elijah, Margaret, and Lucy. Elijah, the father of Euclid, is the only one of three sons 
living. He was born in 1818, and when quite young married Nancy, daughter of Her- 
man Smith of Canajoharie, and they were the parents of seven sons, five of whom sur- 
vive : Leonard, a farmer of Kansas; Harmon, a mechanic of Canajoharie; Simeon, a 
physician of St. Louis, Mo. ; Valentine O., a mechanic of Fort Plain ; and Euclid. The 
early life of the latter was spent in this town. He was educated in the common schools 
and assisted his father on the farm until about twenty-two years of age, when he went 
to Kansas, staying there but little over a year, when he returned and conducted a farm 
in Canajoharie. November 28, 1872, he married Minerva, daughter of Luther and 
Mary M. (Collyer) Van Wie of Canajoharie, and they have three children: Edith M., 
Perlia E., and Bert E. In 1873 Mr. Garlock moved into the town of Palatine where 
he conducted a farm for three years, and then bought his present residence and farm of 
ninety-seven acres, which he devotes mainly to hay and grain. Mr. Garlock has held 
offices of trust in the town, and his family are members of the Reformed Church at 
Mapletown. 

Garlock, Elijah, Canajoharie, was born in Canajoharie, about four mile.s south of the 
village, December 27, 1809, a son of George and Elizabeth (Garlock) Garlock. As far 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 179 

back as we can trace, which is to the grandfather of our subject, the family have always 
been residents of this town. George, the father of Elijah, was a soldier in the war of 
1812, and served at Sacketts Harbor and also one of the contractors of the Erie canal. 
Elijah was one of a family of five children, three sons and two daughters, all of whom 
are dead except Elijah, whose whole life has been spent in this town. He was edu- 
cated in the common schools and assisted his father on the farm until his marriage in 
1833 ; he married Nancy Smith, daughter of Harmanus Smith of the town of Mohawk, 
by whom he had seven sons: William, who died in Canajoharie ; George D., who was 
a soldier in the rebellion and died in Kansas in 1883 ; Leonard of Kansas ; Herman of 
Canajoharie ; Simeon, a physician of St. Louis ; Euclid, a farmer of Canajoharie ; and 
V. Oscar of Fort Plain. After Elijah was married his father gave him a farm of 100 
acres and he conducted it until 1870 when he moved in the village and has ever since 
occupied his present residence. Mrs. Garlock died in 1850 and Elijah married Rebecca 
Visscher, a daughter of Daniel and Hester (Conyne) Visscher of Tribes Hill, by whom 
he has had two daughters: Anna, wife of William Bellinger of Canajoharie, and Hes- 
ter Elizabeth, who lives at home. Mr. Garlock is a staunch supporter of the Democrat 
ticket, has held the office of commissioner of highways of the town and is one of the 
leading citizens of this place. 

Briggs Family, The. — Elisha Briggs was born in New Bedford, Mass., June 22, 1787. 
He married Deborah Weir, and removed to Johnstown, and settled there about 1810. 
He had four children: Eliza, Nancy, Almira, and John W. His wife died February 
24, 1820, and he married second, Sarah Babcock of Chatham, Columbia county, by 
whom he had seven children : Garrett E., Thomas R., William Avery, Charles E., Mary 
E., Daniel C, and Delavan. Elisha died August 30, 1864, and his wife, Sarah, April 
13, 1874. He was overseer of the poor eight years, and was a large farmer, owning 
over 1,000 acres of land at the time of his death, which was considered to be worth 
$100,000. He was a Whig in politics, and later a Republican and a strong protection- 
ist. Delavan Briggs was born October 18, 1828. In 1851 he married Almira Dock- 
stader, daughter of John Dockstader, and a year later he settled on the farm where he 
has since resided, comprising 128 acres. In 18G4 he was elected as.ses&or, and has been 
engaged in the butcher business. He has six children : W. S., Phebe, Henry, John, 
Edward and Carrie. 

Briggs, WiUiam S., son of Delavan, was born October 23, 1853, in this town, and 
and graduated at Clinton Cohege in 1871. In 1872 he opened a drug store in Fonda, 
which he has carried on since. He al.so had a drugstore in Meriden, Conn., for six 
years. In 1887 he organized the Fonda mill of which he was treasurer. In May, 
1891, the business was changed to Shannhan, Briggs & Company. September 6, 1877, 
he married Jessie, daughter of Sidney Smith, and they have three children : Marcia C, 
Cornie A., and Gilbert S. 

House, William C, Minden, was born in Oppenheim, November 4, 1850. His father 
removed to Minden when he was sixteen years of age since which time he has been a 
resident of that town. He has been engaged in farming, and since 1887 has carried on 
the egg business, shipping to eastern markets. lie married Mary E., daughter of the 
late William I. Walrath, They have one adopted daugliter, Tessie. 



180 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Hill, Squire, Canajoharie, was born on the farm on which he now hves, at the north 
end of it, on the old Hill homestead, December 14, 1852. He is a son of Bradford A. 
and Pamelia (Reed) Hill. Bradford was a son of Squire and Dorothy (Walker) Hill 
and a brother of Gift'ord A. Hill. He was boru on the homestead farm near Waterville, 
January 1, 1820, and at about the age of twenty-seven he married Pamelia Reed, liv- 
ing for about three years after on the farm ; he then bought the farm now occupied by 
Squire, consistmg of seventy-seven acres, to which he made additions until he owned 
over 200 acres. He had three children : Sarah B., wife of J. Alfred Gordon of 
Argusville; Mary V., wife of Henry Fitzgerald of Rexford's Flats, and Squire. The 
whole life of the latter has been spent on the farm. His father died in 1874, leaving 
the farm to him. He was educated in Ailams University, and October 3, 1877 married 
Eunice, daughter of J. J. and Aurelia (Eliot) Tucker of Otsego county. They have 
four children: Virgie M., born April 13, 1880; Florence G., born April 12, 1882; 
Pamelia. born June 9, 1884 ; and Bradford W., born February 26, 1886. Mr. and Mrs. 
Hill are active in church works, and are members, he of the Methodist and his wife of 
the Baptist church. He is a Republican. 

IngersoU, Alexander, Glen, one of four children of John and Leah (Liddle) Ingersoll, 
was born on the homestead June 1, 1864, the others being John L., Nettie, widow of 
Nelson D. Vedder (and their children Leiand N., Earl I. and Zerah Vedder) ; and Katie 
Ingersoll. John, the father, was born in Charleston and was one in a family of eleven 
children : George, James, William, Margaret, wife of Nelson Momford ; Mary, wife 
of Jacob Lord ; Sarah, wife of John Mereniss ; Martha, Mrs. Charles Miller ; Christie, 
Annie, and Nancy (who died early). Leah J. Liddle, the mother, was born in Duanes- 
burg and was one of ten children, the others being Alexander F., who is now deceased ; 
Robert J., J. Augustus, Edward T., Mary, Elizabeth, wife of William J. McClure ; 
Margaret, and Sarah, wife of William L. Avery. The father of John was James Inger- 
soll, and his father (James also) was a native of Connecticut, and his wife, Janet 
McClumpha, was born in Duanesburg, of Scotch descent. Leah J., mother of Alexan- 
der, was a daughter of Alexander Liddle, jr., his wife being Catharine Allen. His 
father was Alexander Liddle. sr., who was born in Scotland, and came to this country 
with his father, Robert Liddle, when seven years of age. His wife was Mary Gifford 
of Duanesburg. 

Jones Brothers, Frederick and Augustus, were both born in Canajoharie, Frederick 
August 14, 1844, Augustus December 13, 1847, and are sons of Charles and Charlotte 
(Wellock) Jones. Charles Jones was born in Hanover, Germany in 1817, and came 
to this country when a young man and married Charlotte Wellock, also from Germany, 
in 1840. They were the parents of five children, only three are now living: Mrs. W. 
F. Cook, and our subjects. The latter have always made their home in this town ; they 
were educated in the public schools and their first business venture was made in 1868, 
when they bought a canal boat and tried canaling. Their experience in this was a 
varied and interesting one. Starting with very small capital they were many times 
almost discouraged, but they worked hard and finally succeeded. This was their intro- 
duction in the coal business. They bought coal in New York and delivered it here, find- 
ing a ready sale in the winter. In 1865 they met a severe reverse, the water in the 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 181 

river rising and being full of ice it carried away their residence, and completely de- 
stroyed their property. They then bought a place at the corner of Main and Mohawk 
streets, and invested in real estate, which proved profitable, and in 1868 they rebuilt 
their house, which was taken by the West Shore Railroad Company in 1882. In 1887 
they gave up the real estate business, giving their whole attention to the coal trade, 
which has increased and they are now doing a large business. October 1, 1885, Fred- 
erick married Henrietta Schrader and their union has been blessed by four children : 
Ward Augustus, born December 23, 1886 ; Fred Willock, born April 27, 1889 ; and 
Hilda Sophia and Herbert Schrader (twins), born January 31, 1892. When we con- 
sider the hard work they have had all their lives it is certainly not surprising that they 
have become one of the leading firms of this place. Their father died when Augustus 
was but eleven years old, and from that date they have been pulling against the stream. 
He left them a debt on the land he purchased adjoining their home; often have they 
paid this, but through some flaw in the papers, part of it was taken from them. They 
have both held office in their village, but their ambition is to be known as honest, up- 
right business men. 

Johnston, William N., Palatine, was born in Palatine Bridge in 1844. His father 
was George G. Johnston ; his grandfather, George W. Johnston ; his great-grand- 
father, George Johnston, a native of Inverness, Scotland, horn in 1740, and who came 
to Stratford, Conn., in 1760, where he remained until his death in 1790; he had two 
children, George W. and Emily. George W. was born in 1770 ; in 1792 he married 
Nancy Wright, a niece of Governor Silas Wright, of New York ; they had five sons 
and one daughter. He died in Glenville in 1840. George G. was born in Stratford in 
1794; he served an apprenticeship in an iron foundry that existed until his death in 
1872. He was married three times; first to Gertrude Van Slyke, who bore him two 
sons and two daughters; second to Mary A. Ruby of Albany, by whom he had two 
sons and one daughter; third, to Atlanta Boutelle Allen, in 1884, who bore him three 
sons and four daughters. Atlanta Allen was a daughter of William Allen of Towns- 
end, Vt., who, with his father, served in the revolutionary war. William N. Johnston 
attended the common school and also a preparatory course in the Canajoharie Academy. 
He enlisted, November 8, 1861, in the 102d N. Y. Volunteers, was promoted to first 
lieutenent, to captain, to assistant inspector general of the brigade, and at the close of 
the war was breveted major for gallant and meritorious conduct in the field. He 
served with his regiment in the Shenandoah campaign and the aimy of the Potomac in 
the east, and with the army of the Cumberland in the west. After his return from 
the war he attended Beloit College for about two years, then began the study of law, 
and in 1870 was admitted to the bar. He practiced law until 1876, when he was 
elected county clerk and re-elected in 1879. After serving six years as county clerk 
he was appointed at difi"erent times to responsible positions under the state administra- 
tion. In 1888 he engaged in the stone business under the firm of Johnston & Shaper, 
which was afterwards merged in the Mohawk Valley Stone Company, of which com- 
pany Mr. Johnston is now president. In 1872 he married Elizabeth, daughter of Will- 
iam and Ann Eliza (Gauley) Dol?en of New York. They have five children : (jeorge 
Albert and William Allen, students of Union College; Harry Ferris, Agnes Atlanta 



182 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

«nd Edwin Granville. Mr. Jobnston lias always been an active Democrat. He is now- 
serving his third term as supervisor of the town. 

Kavanaugh, John, Amsterdam, was born in County Wicklow, Ireland, March 22, 
1851, and came with his parents to Amsterdam when six months old ; he was educated 
in the public schools and worked for a time in Stephen Sanford & Sons' ca.-pet mills. 
At the age of sixteen he entered the employ of Thomas Morphy as clerk in a boot and 
shoe store, and was with two successive employers , he bought out the shoe business 
of McElwain & Dodge, and later on sold out to his cousin. Miles Cooling. He after- 
wards manufactured brooms for two years, then became associated with his father in 
the grocery and coal trade, and upon the deatli of his father he assumed full control of 
the business for himself and heirs. May 16, 1876, he married Josephine McDewitt of 
Greene county. Mr. Kavanaugh's father (Miles) was born in County Wicklow, Ire- 
land, about 181S, and married Mary Ann Swan of his native place, and came to the 
United States in the fall of 18.51 ; he located m Amsterdam; they bad tliree children, 
two sons and one daughter : Mathew (died at the age of twenty-two years). John, 
and Essie. Mr. Kavanaugh is a member of the Olympus club, one of the trustees of 
the Amsterdam Savings bank and of Amsterdam City Hospital, also of St. JIary's 
Cemetery, is a member of the Roman Catholic Church, was one of the trustees of the 
village of Amsterdam, and was town clerk of the town of Amsterdam, His father 
died November 16, 1889, 

Kellogg, Rebecca I,, Amsterdam, was liorn on the farm of her present residence in 
the town of Amsterdam, November 26, 1828, and is a daughter of Joseph and Hannah 
(Lepper) Lepper. The grandfather of our subject, Jacob Lepper, came from Germany. 
He located first at Stone Arabia, and afterward came to the farm on the West Turn- 
pike, where Jacob Lepper now lives. He was the father of ten children, of which 
Joseph was the sixth. He was born January 26, 1789, and was married to Rebecca 
Fairchild November 7, 1812, by whom he was the father of six children, when she died 
June 24, 1826. His second wife, and mother of our subject, was Hannah Lepper, 
whom he married May 10, 1827, and they were the parents of six children. Of these 
twelve children six are now living. Rebecca is the second youngest. When Joseph 
was a young man he bought this farm of 156 acres where Rebecca was born and has 
has always lived, March 3, 1885, she was married to Ashley L. Kellogg of Chicago. 
Mr. Kellogg has been in the mercantile busine.'ss in that city, but is now the manager 
of this fine farm, which is devoted to the raising of hay and dairy products. The 
grandmother of our subject told many tales of pioneer life in this country. She was 
once taken prisoner by a party of Indians, who came up behind her as she was gather- 
ing fruit, and with her babe was carried to Canada, where she was kept thirteen 
months, the Indians offering her part of the time horse flesh to eat. At the end of 
that time she was exchanged with other prisoners. Mrs. Kellogg is engaged in church 
work, and always takes an interest in every good work. 

Lipe, Seeber, Minden. — The Lipe family is of German descent, and John Lipe had 
an only son (David), born in Minden, May 4, 1770, and married Elizabeth Seeber, who 
was born May 29, 1779. He died May i, 1855, and his wife April 21, 1858. They 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 183 

had a family of eight children, all of whom were born in ilinden and died in that 
town, excepting the younger two. They were Elizabeth, born June 26, 1 799, who 
married Charles Walrath ; Abraham, born September 3, 1801 ; William, born June 14, 
1807 ; John Frederick, born August 10, 1809 ; David W., born March 13, 1813 ; Har- 
riet, born April 28, 1815, who married Nathan Lipe ; Seeber, born August 26, 1818, 
who married Catherine Bonner, and resides in Fort Plain ; and Almira, born March 5, 
1822, widow of William Kongher of Fort Plain. 

Loucks, Conrad K., Palatine, was born in Palatine, July 15, 1821. His fatlier was 
Henry J. Loucks, and his grandfather Jacob Loucks, a native of Palatine, who was in 
the revolutionary war. after which he settled at Stone Arabia. He married a Miss 
Cook, and had a family of two sons and four daughters. Henry J. Loucks was born in 
Palatine June 30, 1791, raised on a farm, was in the war of 1812, married Catherine, 
daughter of Conrad Kilts, had two daughters and one son, and died in Palatine in 1865, 
and his wife in 186-1. They were farmers and members of the Reformed Church. 
Conrad K. Loucks was raised on a farm, attended the common school, and married 
LavinaM., daughter of John Patten of Palatine. Nine children were born to them as 
follows: John H., Caroline, Joel, David C, Lansing P., Elizabeth, Albert, Laura 
(deceased), and Mary A. (deceased). Mr. Loucks has always followed farming. 

Lentz, Conrad, Mohawk, Fonda p. o., was born in Germany December 25, 1812. He 
married Elizabeth Regal and has ten children, six sons and four daughters. In 1854 
he came to America and settled at Stone Arabia, where he engaged in farming. His 
wife died in 1888, and he now resides in Fonda. His son William was born March 31, 
1851, and came to this country with his father at the age of three years. At the age 
of seventeen he went to Fort Plain to learn the trade of blacksmith with Stitchel & 
Ganset, and after eighteen months spent there he returned to Fonda and entered die 
shop of George F. Putman, where he remained over fourteen years. In 1882 he com- 
menced work for himself, and has been m the same shop since. He married Julia Swift 
and has had six children, four of whom survive. They are as. follows: William H., 
Mary Ellen, Jennie, Emma, Frank and Charlie, the latter two decea.sed. 

Lvker, John V., Root, was born December 22, 1843, where he now resides at Lyker's, 
a son of Henry and Jane (Davis) Lyker. The grandfather, Henry (son of Henry who 
came from Germany in 1833), settled in New York state. He was an early pioneer of 
Schenectady county, and later came to Root, where he engaged in farming. He also 
operated a grist-mill and distillery. He served as major-general in the war of 1812, and 
was justice for «bout forty years. He married Miss Meliack and reared two sons and 
six daughters. His wife died in 1842, and he died in 1850. His son Henry was born 
in Schenectady county in 1797, and came to Root with his father. He was a contractor 
for six years in the building of the reservoir in New York. He served in the war of 
1812 as captain, and also had a distillery. He reared a family of six children : Cornelius 
H., Charles, Catherine, Louisa, John V., and Emma (deceased). The father died in 
1872, and the mother in 1883, aged seventy-four years. Both were members of the 
Reformed church. John V. was reared on the farm and received a district school edu- 
cation. At twenty-five he began for himself on tlie farm where he now lives. He is 



184 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

s breeder of Holstein cattle. He has served two years as overseer of the poor, has been 
postmaster ten years at Lyker's, and is now serving his sixth year as liighway com- 
missioner. He is a Democrat. May 2, 1874, he married Su.san, daughter of RiilofF and 
Lydia (Van Husen) Olmstead. They have si.K children : Laura, Henry, Arthur, Harma, 
Emma, and Alida. 

Mansfield, Thomas W., Amsterdam, was born in West Troy January 21, 1850. He 
was educated in the public schools and was for several years a cartridge maker in 
Watervliet Arsenal. He came to Amsterdam in 1870 and for eight years worked in the 
confectionery business, when he started in business for himself inanufacturmg all kinds 
of confectionery, a busmess he still continues. July 23, 1872, he married Pricsilla F., 
oldest daughter of Samuel F. and Catherine Stewart of Newtonville. Mr. Mansfield is 
a member of Artisan Lodge No. 84 F. & A. M., of which he is now senior warden; 
also member of Amsterdam Chapter No. 81 R. A. M. ; also member of St. George's 
Commandery No. 37 K. T. of Schenectady ; also of Dewitt Clinton Council R. & S.; 
also of the Consistory thirty-second degree, and of the Mystic Shrine of Troy, and is 
also one of the vestrymen of St. Ann's Episcopal church. The ancestry of the family 
is English. 

Myers & Parker, broom and brush manufacturers. This enterprise was established 
in the city of Amsterdam in 1827 by George W. Bronson, it being the first broom in- 
dustry founded in the valley. James H. Bronson succeeded his father in the business, 
and in 1885 William P. Myers (who had been engaged in the grocery business since 
1874) became a partner, and in 1890 William H. Parker succeeded Mr. Bronson. In 
that year the plant was removed to Fultonville, a new and elegant factory being built, 
the main building being of brick three stories in height, and 120 feet in length by fifty 
feet deep. This building embodied all the modern improvements and among them the 
first electric light in use in any broom factory. Among the auxiliary buildings is an 
iron storehouse forty by eighty feet and one thirty by one hundred. The capacity of the 
factory is an output of 500 dozen goods per day. William P. Myers was born in the 
city of Brooklyn April 5, 1855. He was married December 29. 1886, to Minnie A. Van 
Evera, one of two children of Horace and Margaret (Abel) Van Evera of Fultonville. 
William H. Parker was born in Dutchess county January 23, 1865. He was married 
June 25, 1891, to Grace Adelaide Wemple, one of three children of Edward and Frances 
A. (Groat) Wemple of Fultonville. 

Mabee, Abram, Glen, was born in Glen October 20, 1840, one of four children of 
Harmanus and Maria (Newkirk) Mabee; the others beine Peter H., Mary E., wife of 
Beujainiii Faulkner ; Eleanor, wife of John K. Van Home. Harmanus, the father, had 
one brother, Henry Mabee. His father was Peter H., also born in Glen. The remote 
ancestor of the Mabee family was Jan Pieterse Mabie, who came to Schenectady in 
1684. He married Anna, daughter of Pieter Jacobse Borsboon, one of the original 
proprietors of Schenectady. In the year 1697 Rode, called by the Christians Dirk, a 
Mohawk sachem, with the consent of the other Mohawks, granted a piece of ground 
containing eighty acres, lying on both sides of Schoharie creek, commonly known as 
Kudarodae (or Caudaughrity, as it is now written) to Jan Pieterse Mebie, on consider- 



FAMILY SKETCHES 185 

ation that liis wife '' is something related to the Moliawk castle." This land is said to 
be still in the possession of the Mabee descendants. Ahram Mabee married, Septem- 
ber 9, 1874, Anna Schuyler, daughter of George S. and Clarissa (Van Scliayck) Schuyler 
of Glen, she being one of six children. 

Murphy, Thomas, Canajoharie, was born in County Cavan, Ireland, December 3, 1812, 
a son of John and Kate (Kilbronen) Murphy. Thomas married at the age of twenty- 
eight Mary Prunkett, daughter of Oliver Prunkett. In 1851 Mr. Murphy brought his 
family to this country, locating first in New York, where he remained but a short time, 
then coming to this town, where, in 1863 he bought his present farm of 1G8 acres. He 
has quite a large hop yard, and during the busy season employs twenty workers. He 
has had eight children of whom six survive : Mary, wife of Patrick M'Kough of Glen ; 
Frank, a farmer of Otsego county ; Elizabeth, wife of Thomas Kearns who conducts 
the homestead farm ; John, who went to California in 1872 and became a miner; James 
H., a butcher of Amsterdam; and Kate, wife of John Carney of Amsterdam. Mr. 
Murphy has made a success of farming. 

MacGregor, Alexander, Amsterdam, was born on the old MacGregor homestead in 
the town of Florida September 15, 1809, where he resided and followed the occupation 
of a farmer until 1886, when he moved to the city of Amsterdam and retired from 
active pursuits. His father, Duncan MacGregor, was born near Glasgow, Scotland, 
and came to this country when a young man. Shortly after his arrival he married Ann, 
daughter of Call MacGregor, and they had four sons : Daniel, Alexander, John and 
Robert. March 3, 1836, the subject of this sketcli married Deborah Smith of the town 
of Perth. They had two daughters, Helen A., who died at the age of thirteen, and 
Martha Ann, who married John B. Thompson of the town of Florida. They have two 
children living: Herbert and Alexander; two dead, Howard and Jessie. June 28, 1856, 
Mr. MacGregor married Rebecca, only daughter of Jacob G. and Margaret Putman of 
the town of Glen. By this union Mr. MacGregor has three children, two daughters 
and one son : Frances, the first daughter, who married Lewis A. Casler of the town of 
Florida, has one daughter, Maude, and a son, Arthur L. ; Margaretta, the second daugh- 
ter, married Jacob McClumpha of the town of Florida, and they have a daughter living, 
Majorie, and lost one son. Earl A., at th" age of three years; John Alexander, the 
only son, is a member of the firm of MacGregor <fe Schuyler, merchants of the city of 
Amsterdam. Mr. MacGregor had two uncles who lost their lives in the war of 1812 
The ancestry of the family is Scotch on both sides. The present Mrs. MacGregor is a 
granddaughter of Captain Garret Putman of revolutionary fame, and is Holland Dutch 
descent. 

Nellis Family, The. — The great historian of the Reformation, John Fox, writes as 
follows: " In the meantime the Protestants of Heidelberg (a city in the province of 
the Palatinate) sank into poverty, and many of them became so distressed, as to quit 
their native country, and seek an asylum in Protestant States. A great number of 
these coming into England in the time of Queen Anne, were cordially received here, 
and met with a most humane assistance, both by public and private donations." Three 
thousand of these refugees embarked at Leith, Scotland, in ten ships, early in 1710, 



186 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

bound for America. Seven of these .ships arrived here safely, having buried 470 of 
their number at sea. They landed at Governor's i.^land, June 13. 1710. Among them 
were three brothers, William, Christian and Johannes Nellis. They first settled on a 
tract in Dutchess count}', but in 1712 with other Palatines, they hewed a road across the 
CatskiUs, and came to Schoharie river. Afterwards Johannes Nellis went to Pennsyl- 
vania, and settled in the vicinity of Gettysburg, and in 1720 William and Christian 
settled in the Mohawk valley near Palaiine church. On the 19th of October, 1723, 
William and twenty-six other Palatines procured a patent of 12.000 acres, designated 
the Stone Arabia patent. Afterwards he and George Klock procured a smaller tract, 
known as the Klock and Nellis patent. William Nellis had five sons : Andrew, Ludwig, 
Henry, Johannes and William, jr. On the 30th of December, 1768, a pledge or agree- 
ment was made and subscription list started for the erection of a church edifice for the 
" Lutheran congregation of Canajoharie on the north side of the Mohawk river." "The 
bowmasters or managers of this church building, till finished convenientlj', according to 
the majority of our votes: Peter Waggoner, Andrew Reber and Christian Nellis, jun." 
The deed for the land upon which the church was to be erected was dated "the second 
day of January in the ninth year of His Majesty's reign. King George the Third, &c.. 
Annoy Domini, one thousand seven hundred and sixty-nine, between Hendrick W. Nel- 
lis of Canajoharie in the county of Albany, &c., province of New York, yeoman, of 
the one part, an-i the church wardens of the Lutheran congregation of the same place 
on the north side of the Mohawk river of the other part, witnesseth. that the said Hen- 
drick W. Nellis. for and in consideration of a oarlicular love and aft'ection to the said 
congregation, and for the establishment and tnaiutainance of said Lutheran church, hath 
given, granted, aliened, infeofied and confirmed, and by these presents." etc. Then fol- 
lows a description of the lot, which fronts eighty feet on the highway and is sixty-four 
feet deep, being a parallelogram. A stone church was erected and completed on the 
18th day of August, 1770. The total cost was £620. On this subscription list appear 
the names of William Nellis, jr., Andrew Nellis. Johannes Nellis. Henry Nellis, Chris- 
tian Nellis, David Nellis, each of whom paid £60. " And William Nellis, the father of 
William, Andrew, Johannes and Henry Nellis, paid for the making of the spire, &c., to 
the steeple of said church." Several of the Nellis family held offices of profit and trust 
under the English crown. Hendrick W. Nellis's son Henry and his son Robert went 
to Canada and joined the British army at the commencement of the revolutionary war, 
consequently their land was confiscated. William Nellis, jr., had five sons: Johannes, 
Peter I., Joseph, William and John I. John L was born in 1769, and died in 1849. He 
was the grandfather of Peter F. Nellis of St. Johnsville, who has in his possession 
many of the documents connected with the early history of this country, of the Nellis 
family and of the Palatine stone church. Joseph was born in Palatine ( at that time 
Canajoharie) April 17, 1759, and died Febrnary 24, 1834. He married Mary Lantman 
and they were the parents of two children Joseph I., born in the town of St. Johns- 
ville May 23, 1787, and died September 21, 1862 ; and Mary, born in 1792, who died 
at the age of thirteen. Joseph I. served as an officer in the war of 1812-15. He mar- 
ried when eighteen years of age, Magdelen, daughter of David Bellinger of St. Johns- 
ville, and they were the parents of eight children : Charles, Benjamin J., Josiah, Catli- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. IST 

arine, Aaron, Stephen, Abraham, an(] Horatio. The eUler three are dead. Horatio, 
the youngest son and father of Jacob H.. was born in St. Jobnsville February 25, 1827, 
was educated in the common scliools, and married, January 9, 1849, Catharine, daugh- 
ter of Jacob and Mary (Keller) Sanders of Minden. They liad four children, two of 
whom are living : Jacob H., and Arthur C, a merchant seedsman of Staten Island. 
In March, 18-19, Horatio Nellis moved into the town of Canajoharie, where he bought 
the old Walrath homestead, a fine farm of 120 acres. Here Jacob H. was horn, April 
2. 1850. and he has always lived in this town. He was educated in the Canajoharie 
Academy and Fairfield Seminary, and ujarried, November 11, 1873, Estella, daughter 
of David Quackenbush of Root. She lived less than a year, leaving an infant that 
survived her but a few days. February 21, 1883, he married, second, Ella D., youngest 
daughter of Colonel Stephen Ostroni of Glen, and they have three children : Clara L., 
born March 1.5, 1885; Margaret A., born February 9, 1887 ; and Joseph I., born Janu- 
ary 1, 1882. In 1877 Mr. Nellis established the manufacture of bee-keeper's supplies, 
and also conducted a lumber yard, being forced out of the business in 1883 by the 
West Shore Railroad company. Horatio Nellis was supervisor of the town in 1871, 
and has held the otHce of assessor and town auditor. Jacob H. was commissioner of 
highways of the town in 1883. The family are,staunch Democrats, and are members 
of the Lutheran church. 

Nellis, Frazier, Palatine, was born in St. Johnsville April 21, 1858. His father was 
Edward F. Nellis; his grandfather, David Nellis; his great-grandfather, John L Nellis, 
whose father came to Palatine at an early day. John I. was born near Palatine church 
and lived and died there; he had two sons and three daughters. David Nellis was born 
in Palatine and married a daughter of Peter and Catherine Fox, who raised a family 
of three sons and onedaughter ; he was a farmer, and the family were Lutherans; he 
died in 18G0, and his wife a few years before. Edward F. Nellis was born in Palatine 
in 1830, raised on a farm, and educated in the common schools: his wife was Nancy, 
daughter of Henry Saltsnian; they had two sons and a daughter. Mr. Nellis was a 
farmer and a Democrat, and the family were Lutherans ; be died June 6, 1884, and his 
widow resides with Frazier. The latter w'as raised on a farm and educated at the com- 
mon school. In 1890 he married Katie, daughter of John Helmer of Oppenheim ; they 
have one child, Myra. Mr. Nellis is a Democrat and has been assessor for three years. 

Nellis, Edward I., Palatine, was born in Palatine April 9, 1844, and is a son of Jacob 
W. Nellis, a native of Palatine, who married. May 4, 1833. Annie E. Crosby, born 
August 14, 1814, who bore him four sons and three daughters, Edward I. being the 
youngest, ilr. Nellis and family were Lutherans ; he died in 1879, and his wife is still 
living. Edward I. Nellis was educated at the public schools, supplemented by several 
terras at Fort Plain Academy. He has alwjiys followed farming. In 1881 he married 
Grace, daughter of George and Emma Brouker of Palatine ( parents of one sop and 
three daughters); Mrs. Brooker died April 22, 1890. Edward I. Nellis and wife have 
three children : Clyde E., Jay J., and Harry A. Mr. Nellis has been town clerk, and 
is a member of Fort Plain Lodge No. 433, F. and A. M., and he and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Uuiversalist church. 



188 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Ottinan, Ezra G., Root, son of Christopher and Lydia (Hutton) Ottman, was born 
January 23, 1860, where he now resides. His education was obtained in the district 
schools and Eastman's business college. He follows farming. His grandfather. Henry 
Ottman, was a son of Christopher, who was stolen while herding stock and forced into 
the English army, and brought to America and compelled to fight against the colonists. 
At the close of the revolution he settled in Lyker's Corners. He married a daughter 
of Squire Lyker, by whom he had one daughter. He married, second, a Miss Sharp, 
who bore him two sons and one daughter. He died at Brown's Hollow. Henry, his 
son, was born ai Lyker's in 1786 where he died m 1856. He married Katie Alpaugh, 
by whom he had six sons and two daughters. One of the sons, Christopher, father of 
our subject, was born near Lyker's April 18, 181 6, and in 1851 located where Ezra J. now 
resides. Of bis eleven children nine survive : Henry W., Sarah, Catharine A., Hattie, 
Lottie, Lorena. Jasper C, Ezra G., Mary, and two who died in infancy. The mother 
was born in Sharon, and is a daughter of George and Sarah (Wyckoff) Hutton, natives 
of Glen, and the parents of four sons and three daughters. 

Perkins, John W., Amsterdam, was born in Poughkeepsie on the 9th of August, 1839, 
and came with his parents to Amsterdam via the Erie canal, which at that time was a 
common mode of transportation. He was educated in the public schools and early in 
life learned the moulder's trade. About the year 1865 he began business on his own 
account and in 1884 formed a partnership with Edward L. Schmidt under the 6rm of 
Perkins Foundry Company. He has been married twice, first in 1862 to Elizabeth S. 
Parantau of this city. They bad five children, three sons and two daughters. Edward 
J.. Clara, Clarence, William and Elizabeth. Mrs. Perkins died in the year 1870. In 
the year 1873 he married Dora M. Booth of this city. Mr. Perkins's father, William, was 
bom in 1802 in Lubenham, Leicestershire, England. He married Jane Wright and 
came to the United States in 1835. They had nine children, seven of whom are living; 
Ann, Emma B., Thomas, John W., Joseph, Joshua and Hattie M. 

Post, James, Mohawk, Fonda p. o., a native of New Jersey, came to this country 
when a young man and settled in Glen on the Cadority Flats, where he built a tannery 
which he conducted for many years ; he was also a farmer. He was twice married, and 
had five children by his first wife and three by his second. Abram Post, son of James, 
was born in Glen. He married Anna E. Haslett of Florida, and had two c'nildren: W. 
H. and Mary C. He was a farmer and held the office of assessor, and was a faithful 
supporter of the church. W. Haslett was born November 17, 1835. in Mohawk, and 
has always lived there. He is a farmer and owns 140 acres. He married Annie E. 
Brower, and has three children : Abram W., Gertrude G., and Mary C. His second 
wife was Anna M. Gardinier. Mr. Post has a fine residence at Tribes Hill railway 
station which he has recently remodeled in a very thorough manner. His farm is 
beautifully situated and he is always ready to welcome his friends in the most hospit- 
able manner. 

Smith, Isaac Eugene, St. Johnsville, was born July 24, 1814, in Minden, being the 
eldest son of Samuel F. and ilaria (Cox) Smith, and was reared on the farm. He re- 
ceived a district school education with a course at the Seminary and Eastman's Busi- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 189 

ness College, from which he graduated in the spring of 1S62. In July of that year he 
entered the army, enlisting in Company B, 115th Regiment New York State Volun- 
teers. At the organization of this company he was made second sergeant. His first 
service was at Harper's Ferry, where, after a few days' skirmishing and fighting, on 
the loth of Seplemher, 1S6'2, his regiment, with some 10,000 other troops, surrendered 
to Stonewall Jackson. They were mimediately paroled and started for Washington, 
but arriving at Annapolis were ordered to Chicago as paroled prisoners of war. In 
November following, an exchange of prisoners having been eftected, they were ordered 
back to AVashington and from there to the department of the South, being stationed at 
Hilton Head. He participted in the battle of Olustee, February 20, 1S64, where he re- 
ceived a serious gun shot wound and lay in hospital three months, rejoining his regiment 
before the wound had healed. At Bermuda Hundreds, the 10th Corps, to which his 
regiment belonged, having been ordered to form part of the army of the James, and 
participated in all the engagements of his regiment during the campaign around Peters- 
burg and Richmond, of which the most important battles were Bermuda Hundreds, 
Deep Bottom, Cold Harbor, Chapin's Farm, Darby Town Road, Fort Gilmer near 
Richmond, Mine Explosion near Petersburg, and Assault and Capture of Fort Fisher. 
He was commissioned second lieutenant on May 18, 1863 ; first lieutenant and captain 
May 18, 1865. He served on the staff of Colonel Barton and General Pennypacker, 
commander 2d brigade 2d division 10th corps, first as aidecamp and then as acting as- 
sistant adjutant-general, serving in the latter capacity from September 18, 1864 until 
the disbandment of the brigade in September 18. 1865, at Raleigh. On the muster out 
of the 115th regiment, in June, 1865. he was transferred to the 47th New York Veteran 
regiment, and was among the last of the volunteer troops to be mustered out of service, 
receiving his final discharge at Hart's Island. Returning home he resumed farming for 
a couple of years and then engaged in the drug business in St. Johnsville, which he 
conducted until 1880. when he sold out and accepted a position as cashier in the freight 
department of the N. Y. C. & H. R. R. R. at Schenectady, resigning this position in 
the winter of 1883 to accept one as assistant paymaster with the North River Construc- 
tion Company, engaged in building the West Shore railroad. On completion of the 
road he obtained a position with the Wagner Palace Car Company as conductor, in 
which service he is still engaged, and has recently been frrauted a patent on a ticket^ 
known as the Smith system of coupon tickets for drawing room and sleeping cars. He 
was elected town clerk of St. Johnsville in 1872-73-74. and supervisor in 1875 on the 
Republican ticket. He was married, February 12, 1867, to Elizabeth Reed Kingsbury, 
daughter of William and Charlotte (Arraitage) Kingsbury of St. Johnsville, formerly of 
Marblehead, Mass., and London, England, respectively. Our subject and wife had 
four cliildren: Sarah H., who died October, 1884, aged sixteen; Charlotte K., wife of 
John B. Snell ; William K., who died in infancy ; and Julius Frederick; his wife died 
April 23, 1887; she was born in St. Johnsville July 17, 1846. The grandfather, Isaac, 
was born near Morristown, N. J., October 6, 1775, and moved with his father (Asher 
Smith) to Vermont in March, 1797. He married Polly Tichenor of Bridgeport. Vt., 
w^io bore him four sons and two daughters. He moved from Vermont in the year 
1800 and bought a home in what was then the wild region of western New York, set- 



190 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

tling in Mentz, Cayuga county. A few years after he moved to Camillus, and in 1812 
was elected member of assembly ; soon after he moved back to Cayuga county and 
was elected member of assembly for that county. He died at his home in Seneca Falls, 
where he had lived some years, March 1, 1854. His son, Samuel P., was born in 
Meniz September 15, 1802. When quite a young man, his liealth being impaired, was 
advised by his physician to go south and went to Baltimore, remaining there for a 
while, and preferring something to do he applied to a company building a railroad from 
Baltimore to Frederick City, and was given a po.sition as foreman ; later on he was 
made paymaster, and remained with the company until the road was put in operation, 
when at the earnest solicitations of his father he returned home to take charge of his 
milling business. In 1837 he married Maria, daughter of Ebenezer and Nancy Cox of 
Miiiden, and engaged in farming, which he conducted until within a couple of years of 
his death, when he surrendered the management of it to his son, William C. He had 
held the office of assessor of his town for several years and for two terms that of justice 
of the peace. He liad nine children, six sons and three daughters. He died at his 
home on the farm December 29, 1881, being in his eightieth year. His wife, four 
sons and one daughter survive him, named respectively, Isaac E., Julius E., William 
C. and Gertrude E., wife of James E. Place. 

St. John, Lewis M., Canajoharie, was born on the 9th of March, 1836, on the farm, 
where he now lives. He is a son of Sylvanus and Chloe (Stark) St. John; the former 
a native of New Canaan, Conn. Mathew Sc John, the great-great-grandfather of 
Lewis M., was the founder of the family in America, and was a farmer or yeoman. 
About 1G80 he came, it is believed, from England and settled in Norwalk, colony of 
Connecticut. He had four sons. Mark, the second son and the next in line, had seven 
sons, three of whom were killed at Queenstown Heights. The only authentic knowl- 
edge the family have of Mark is that he was, in 1765, a collector of taxes in the colony 
of Massachusetts for the king of England, and died about 1770. John St. John, the 
grandfather, settled at Waterville in 1800 and built the grist and saw-mills there. In 
the war of 1812 he was captam and died about 1814 of fever contracted in the army, 
Our subject's father was reared at Waterville and succeeded to the business of his 
father. In H22 he .«old all his interest there and came to the farm where he reared 
his family ; he died at the age of seventy there. The paternal grandmother of Lewis 
was a Drake, tradition say.s, a direct descendant of Sir Francis Drake, and a daughter 
of Rev. Aaron Drake, a Baptist preacher; she died at the age of eighty-five. Mr. St. 
John was educated at Ames and at Fort Plain Semmary. He has continued on the 
farm all his life except for eight years spent at East St. Louis in the real estate busi- 
ness. He is a Republican, as was his father, who was a strong anti-slavery advocate. 
In August, 1871, he married Lydia A. Jackson, born January 1, 1852, at Erie, Pa., 
daughter of Nathan P. Jackson of Rochester. On her father's side she traces her an- 
cestry back to General Israel Putnam of revolutionary fame. Mr. and Mrs. St. John 
have three sons : Clyde L., born November 13, 1871; Lewis S., born February 13, 
1874; and Harry A., born November 29, 1888. Mr. St. John and his wife are mem- 
bers of the M. E. church of Canajoharie. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 191 

Schuyler, Frederick, Root, was born in Root June 29, 1846, he being one of six 
-children of G-eorge S. and Clarissa (Van Schaick) Schuyler of Glen. The others were : 
Sarah, Mrs. Reuben Devendorf ; Mary Antoinnette, Mrs. A. Pruyn ; Jacob; Anna, 
wife of Abram Mabee; and Henry W. Schuyler. His grandfather, Jacob, was born in 
the town of Florida, his wife being Mary Serviss. George S., the father, was one of 
six children, as was also his wife, Clarissa. Frederick Schuyler married, November 2G, 
1877, Rebecca, daughter of Saumel and Mary (Burns) Fislier of Fultonville, she being 
one of five children, the others being Jennie, wife of Seymour Wemple ; Lizzie ; Hat- 
tie, wife of Charles Quackenbush ; and Charles. Her grandfather was Charles Fisher 
of Glen. They have one daughter, Clara May. Mr. Schuyler has resided in Glen for 
the past thirty-eight years. 

Smith, Joseph, Minden, was born in Minden July 17, 1817, and is the second son of 
a family of four children of Abraham and Margaret (Klock) Smith. When our subject 
was four years of age his father removed to St. Johnsville, and his early education was 
obtained at the district schools of that town. At the age of thirteen he came to live 
with his uncle, Henry H. Smith, in Minden. His uncle was a farmer living about five 
miles west of Fort Plain, on the River road. In 1867 Mr. Smith came to Fort Plain to 
reside, and since that time has discontinued active business. He was one of the first 
stockholders of the St. Johnsville National Bank, became a director in 18G7, and for 
the last ten years has been president. A Republican in politics, he has never been an 
aspirant for political honors. Mr. Smith married first, Nancy, daughter of John Adam 
Snell. Of the two children, one died in infancy, and the other, Alfred Alonzo, be- 
came a member of the 115th New York Volunteers, and was killed at the battle of 
Olustee. He married second. Celia, daughter of John Adam Snell, by whom he had 
five children, one of whom died in infancy. The others were : Charles, who died at 
Denver, aged twenty-four years; Frank F., a resident of Richmond, Ind.; and Herbert, 
died in Minden, aged twenty-two years ; and Lillian. 

Stemgraves, Orlando,' Canajoharie, was born in Canajoharie about two miles south of 
the village, May 14, 1839, and is a son of Augustus and Elizabeth (Craft) Steingraves. 
Augustus, his father, was one of the earliest settlers of the town, coming from Hanover, 
Germany, when twenty-five years old. He located in this town on his arrival and 
found plenty of occupation as a carpenter in the new country. His wife, Elizabeth 
Craft, was born in Germany and they were married four years after their arrival. They 
were the parents of three children : Louisa Steingrebe of Quincy, 111. ; Marie Brand of 
Syracuse ; and Orlando, our subject, whose whole life has been spent in this town. He 
attended the public school and assisted his father on his farm until he was twenty-one, 
when he started out for himself. In 1865 he went into the grocery business, first as 
clerk for Jacob Hammersmith until 1876, when he bought Mr. Hammersmith's interest 
in the store and assumed control. He remained thus until 1882 when he sold to E. 
Seabright, and was out of business until 1886 when he started a new grocery store in 
the new Hammersmith block which he has since successfully conducted. On April 29, 
1869, he married Doretta Jones, daughter of Charles and Charlotte (Willeck) Jones of 
Canajoharie, and they have two children : Olive L., born January 23, 1871, and Eliza- 
beth M., born September 3, 1874. Mrs. Steingraves died June 29, 1885. Mr. Stein- 



192 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

graves has never taken much interest in politics, but has held offices of trust in the 
village, and has twice been elected town clerk of Canajoliarie, but his ambition is to be 
an honest and successful business man. 

Stewart, James, Amsterdam, was born December 4, 1794, in the highland village of 
Port Nellan, Perthshire, Scotland, the home of his family for generations. Born of a 
sturdy, vigorous race, he inherited, from a long'line of noble ancestors that reaches back 
four hundred years to David of Scotland and Robert Bruce, those sterling qualities of 
head and heart that were destined in the new world to make him a man among men, a 
noble hearer of a noble name. His parents came to America in 1796 and located at 
May field. At the age of sixteen he left the farm to make room at the fireside for a large 
family, of which he was the oldest. Following in the footsteps of his father, he became 
a stone cutter of no mean ability and later a government contractor. All over the 
country, in many states, along the lines of canals and railways, may be seen for gener- 
ations to come, in solid stone, locks, massive arches and bridges, the monuments of his 
labor, for he builded wisely and well. In not a few instances, rather than place his 
seal upon unworthy work, he lost heavily on these contracts. In some he was, by 
special legislation, awarded reimbursements. In 1843 he married Melissa J., daughter 
of Dr. Abram Pulling of Amsterdam, and a lineal descendant of Colonial Governor 
Fitch of Connecticut, who proved a most worthy helpmate. Richly dowered by nature, 
both mentally and physically, Mrs. Stewart possessed a personality singularly rare ; 
ho.spitalitv and charity were spontaneous expressions of her nature, and their united 
life was most happy and successful. Though living more than thirty years after her 
hu.sband's death in the shadow of that deep affliction, she yet bore most nobly the bur- 
dens that thus devolved upon her — a young woman still. In 1S4G Mr. Stewart purshased 
the old Johnson place, Guy Park, which he rebuilt and enlarged, making it one of the 
most beautiful homes in the Mohawk valley. Here on this farm his children were born 
and reared, surrounded on every side by the evidences of a master mind, that his chil- 
dren's children may now emulate ; for his works stand as models for to-day. To a 
phenomenal physique, he added exceptional mental resources and breadth of intellect, 
which set its .«eal in no uncertain lines upon his every work. Here he brought his aged 
parents to end their days, and built to the already large house an additional wing for 
their accommodation, and here too, directly in front of his home, on the tracks of the 
N. Y. C. & H. R. R. he met a most sudden death on July 28, 18G0 ; thus terminating 
a life than which the world knows no nobler. His second daughter, M. Evelyn, who 
married Albert C. Phillips of the town of Florida, now occupies the old homestead. 
They have two children, a daughter and son, Anna E. and William Stewart. 

Stover, Martin J., Amsterdam, father of Dr. Charles, was born in Pittstown, Rens- 
selaer county, wa.s educated in the public schools and Hartwick Seminary ; he has been 
a minister for over fifty years in the Lutheran denomination. August 24, 1837, he 
married Lvdia A. Hartman of Dansville, Livingston county ; they have six children, 
five sons and one daughter: Jacob H., James H., Sarah J., Martin L., George B., and 
Charles. Jacob H., James H. and Sarah J., are dead. Judge Martin L. has a fine sol- 
dier's record and is judge of the Superior Court. Charles was born at Cobleskill, Feb- 
ruary 28, 1851; he was first educated in the public schools, prepared for College at 



FAMILY SKETCnES 103 

Seneca Falls Academy and entered Cornell University in 1871. In 1870 lie entered the 
medical department of the University of Pennsylvania, graduating in 1880 as an M. D., 
and began the practice of his professson the same year in Amsterdam ; he was in com- 
pany with Dr. Robb three years ; tlie family is of German ancestry. Dr. Stover is a 
member of Artisan Lodge No. 84 F. & A. M. and Amsterdam Chapter 87 R. A. M., and 
Dewitt Clinton Council No. 22 R. & S. M. of Albany, and of St. John's Commandery 
No. 37 K. T. of Schenectady. He is a member of the Medical Society of tlie State of 
New York and of the Montgomery County Medical Seciety. 

Rickard, Charle,', Glen, was born in Root January 8, 1874, and is one of five children 
of Henry and Sarah Ellen (Abel; Rickard, of the same town, the others being Philip 
Abel, William Henry, Frederick, who died m childhood, and one sister, who died in 
infancy. Charles married on October 29, 1873, Margaret Ann, one of six children of 
Abram and Catharine E. (Devendorf) Starin of Glen, the others being as follows : John 
H., Jacob A., Lizzie (Mrs. Douw Heagel), David H. and Levi A. Starin. Mr. and Mrs. 
Rickard have two children, Clara Lynn and Maggie May Rickard. Mr. Rickard began 
business in Fultonville in 1869 and in 1873 entered the d;ug business in the same place, 
where he has since remained. He is one of the most successful business men in the 
valley. Within the last few years he has turned liis attention to real estate, and is now 
one of the largest real estate owners in Fultonville. He has also interested himself in 
the schools of the place and was one of the school board at the time of the erection of 
the school-house, which is one of the finest in the region. He is also president of the 
board of education. 

Rosa, Isaac A., Mohawk, son of Isaac A. and Pliebe Ann (Alvord) Rosa, was born 
in Broadalbin in 1836. In 1855 he began the manufacture of gloves and mittens in 
Broadalbin, which business he continued until 1862, when he went to New York and 
opened a clothing store ; this he disposed of in 1868 and moved to Fonda, where he 
kept the Fonda Hotel (now Snell IIou.se) until 1882, when he was elected sherifT for a 
term of three years. He has been supervisor of Mohawk for eight years ; treasurer of 
the agricultural society for five years; delegate to state, senatorial and congressional 
conventions several times; for seven consecutive years was chairman of the Demo- 
cratic county committee, and has always taken an active part in politics. In 1856 he 
married Charlotte C. Gorton, and they have had four children, two of whom are living. 
In 1857 he joined Artisan Lodge, No. 86, F. & A. M., of Amsterdam. He is a dealer in 
lumber, a builder and contractor, and has built a large number of houses for himself in 
Fonda. Isaac R. Rosa, father of Isaac A. Rosa, was bcrn in Schenectady. He kept 
the Rosa Hotel in Broadalbin for twenty-five years, and died in 1849. In 1800 his 
father, Richard, moved to Broadalbin wlien that section of the country was a wilder- 
ness. He was a contractor and a builder, and bought a large tract of land. 

Salt.sman, Adam, Palatine, was born in Palatine, December 18, 1832. His fatherwas 
Henry, and his grandfather was William Sallsnian, whose father immigrated from Ger- 
many and settled in Palatine, near where Adam was born ; he married Catherine Wag- 
ner and had ten children. Henry Saltsman was born in Palatine in 1802, raised on a 
farm, and married Elizabeth Lipe, who bore him five sons and three daughters. She 



194 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

died in 18-44, and he married Catherine Loucks, who had one daughter. He was high- 
way commissioner, and with his family was a member of the Lutheran Church. Adam 
Saltsman was raised on a farm, and married, in 1S67, Matilda Neilis of St. Johnsville, 
to whom two children have been born : Jay, who died May 4, '1892, aged twenty-three, 
and Helen, who is at home. Mr. Saltsman is a member of Stone Arabia Grange, No. 
690. The family attends the Stone Arabia Lutheriin Church. 

Spraker James D., was born at Spraker's, Montgomery county, and is one of seven 
children of Daniel and Eliza (Dykeman) Spraker, being their only son. The others 
were Catharine, Alice, Louisa, wife of J, W. Wilson of Fonda ; Frances, Isabella, and 
Harriet. Mrs. Wilson is the only one of the daughters living. James D. Spraker mar- 
ried December 14, 1870, Harriet M., one of the children of John H. and L. M. (Mears) 
Starin, the others being De Lancy and Charles Freeman (both deceased), Myndert, and 
Caroline, wife of Howard Carroll of New York. Mr. and Mrs. Spraker have tliree 
children : Laura Belle, Marguerite, and John Starin Spraker. They reside in New 
York city, where Mr. Spraker has been engaged in business for the past twenty-one 
years. 

Stafford, Harvey R., Canajoharie, was born in the village of Canajoharie, and is a son 
of Brown and Phoebe (Young) Stafford. The first Stafford who came to this country 
was Thomas, who emigrated from England in 162G, and was one of the settlers of New- 
port, R. I., in 1638. He removed in a few years to Providence, and from thence in 
1652 to Warwick, where he died in 1677. He was a millwright, and at Plymouth he 
built the first mill in this country for grinding corn by water-power. His grandson. 
Colonel Joab Stafford, was the great-great-grandfather of Harvey R. He was colonel 
of a Massachusetts regiment during the revolution. Tracing the ancestry we find that 
the father of Brown Stafford was a resident of Cheshire, Mass., when Brow n was born 
in 1810. On reaching manhood he first learned the carpenter's trade, which he fol- 
lowed after he came to this town. He built here ihe old Methodist church, the one at 
Ames and the one at Johnstown. In 1846 he started a grocery store in Canajoharie 
and shortly afterwards took up the insurance business. In 1859 he gave up the store 
and devoted his attention to the latter. His death occurred January 1, 1886, and 
Canajoharie lost one of its most respected citizens and one who had always been an 
active worker in the Methodist church, being a steward of that church at the time of 
his death. He held the office of village trustee for a great many terms and was a 
coroner of the county for several years. His business at his death was left to his son, 
Harvey R. Stafford, who for a number of years had been his partner. He still con- 
ducts it and represents eleven different fire insurance companies, and is agent for the 
New York Life and the Employers Accident Company. 

Smith, Bartholomew, Canajoharie, was born in County Cavan, Ireland, April 3, 1851, 
and came to this country with his brother, Anthony, in 1866. He first located in Fort 
Plain, where he was employed by his uncle, Michael Galvin, who was then conducting 
a hotel. He remained there till 1875, then he moved to Canajoharie. at first selling 
auction goods ; after this he established a grocery and provision store in the Neilis 
block, which he conducted till the fire of April, 1877, after which he sought for new 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 19& 

quarters, where the Hammersmith Block now stands. He did business there until the 
fall of 1877, and then removed to the Stafford Block, corner Church and Bowery, 
where he carried on a successful business until his death. This occurred August 17, 
1887, and Canajoharie lost one of its best business men. Mr. Smith, at the time of his 
death, was the owner of tlie northern part of the Stafford Block, where his store was 
located. He married a daughter of Thomas Crough and sister of Timothy Crough. 

Scharff, Charles W., Canajoharie, W'as born in Canajoharie Norember 19, 1844, and 
is a son of Charles and Louisa (Straunian) Scharff^ Charles ScharflT, the father of the 
subject, was a native of Germany, and came to this country in 183G, locating in Cana- 
joharie. He was the father of eight children, four of whom are still living ; Elizabeth, 
widow of John L. Ranzo of Canajoharie ; Sophia, wife of Joseph Roser of the same 
place ; William J., a hotel-keeper of Fort Plain ; Charles, W., our subject, whose whole 
life has been spent in this town. He was educated in Canajoharie Academy and on 
leaving school he entered the store of J. H. Davis to learn the tinsmith trade, where he 
remained until August 5, 18G2, when he enlisted in the One Hundred Fifteenth N. Y. 
Volunteers and was with it in the battles of Olustee, Cold Harbor, Harper's Ferry, 
Chesterfield Heights, Petersburg, Fort Fisher and other engagements. He was mus- 
tered out of service June 27, 1865, when he returned home and spent two years in a 
Utioa shop to finish his trade. He returned to J. H. Dftvis and spent fifteen years in his 
establishment, after which in 1882 he opened the hardware store and tin shop on Church 
street, which was burned in 1890 He then secured his present location on Main street, 
where he carries a general line of everything in the hardware business. In ISGG he 
married Carrie Shoemaker of Utica. They have liad three children : Phoebe, wife of 
Peter G. Dillenbeck of Canajoharie ; Florence, wife or Gurnen Jones of Fonda; and 
Charles M., a clerk m his father's store. Mr. Scharff' has held the office of village 
treasurer for three years and is the present postmaster of Canajoharie. 

Saltsman, William M. (deceased), a farmer, wa§ born in Palatine in 1818, and died in 
1883. His father was Michael, and his grandfather was William Saltsman. Michael 
Saltsman, who was a farmer, was born in Palatine and married Margaret Cook of Pal- 
atine by whom he had six children. He died in 18.'i4, and his wife in 18G9. William 
Saltsman was raised on a farm, educated in- the public schools, and married in 1850, 
Maria, daughter of Philip and Elizabeth (Keck) Martin. The latter were the parents of 
twelve children. Mrs. Martin is an aunt of Judge Keck of Johnstown. Mr. Saltsman 
is a farmer, and he and his wife are Lutherans. They have had five children as follows : 
Philip M., Mary E., Alexander, William J.. Irwin. Mr. Saltsman was a member of the 
Lutheran church at Stone Arabia, as is his wife at the present time. 

Snell, Jacob, Mohawk, is the son of Alexander and Mony (Loucks) Snell, and was 
born in Palatine July 11, 1847. He received a common .school education and was a 
farmer and stone contractor until April 1, 1883, when he bought the Fonda hotel and 
changed the name to the Snell house, which he recently sold at a profit. In 1885 he 
was elected sheriff. He was supervisor of Palatine one year, and town clerk two terms. 
He was engaged in boating on the Erie canal for a year and for another year was super- 
intendent for Belden, Dennison & Co. on the Welland Canal. He is a member of the 



196 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Knights of Pythias and Red Men ; is a Republican and an active worker in politics, and 
has been a delegate to county and state conventions. In 1867 he married Nancy C. Nellis 
of Palatine, daughter of Captain John J. Nellis. They have fivechildren : Lizzie, Lulu, 
Elda, J. D., and James A. Alexander Snell, father of Jacob, was born in the town of 
Palatine and resided there during his lifetime. He was a farmer. He married Mary, 
daughter of Peter C. Loucks, and they had nine children, eight of whom are living. He 
war elected sheriff of Montgomery county in 1861 and held various town offices. Dur- 
ing the late war he was active in securing recruits, going to Nashville and enlisting 
colored men to help fill the quotas of the towns of his county. He died September 17, 
1892. His wife is still living at Yonkers. 

Van Deveer, Tunis I., Amsterdam, was born in Florida April 7, 1800, and settled in 
Amsterdam in 1822. He was a descendant of John and Katharine (Conover) Van 
Derveer, natives of New Jersey, but of Holland descent. They were residents of 
Florida for over half a century, and were a family of wealth and influence. On Nov- 
ember 13, 1822, Tunis I. Van Derveer married Theodosia, daughter of John and Nancy 
Merrell of Charleston, and located on a farm that bears his name, at that time just 
outside the (then) small village. He was one of the most prosperous farmers in the 
Mohawk valley, and had a careful, far-seeing judgment in all transactions. He was 
noted for his liberality, and was one of the most public-spirited as well as traveled men 
of his day, both in this country and Europe. He was one of the first to feel the im- 
portance of a female seminary, and in May, 1838, he with E. E. De Graff, headed a 
subscription with a thousand dollars. In September, 1841, the Agricultural society of 
Montgomery county was organized, making Mr. Van Derveer its first president. He 
had seven children, four daughters and three sons. On August 24, 1871, he was called 
to bid adieu to scenes in which his own hands and guiding judgment had taken part, 
and leave for a "house not built with hands, eternal in the heavens." His wife sur- 
vived him twenty-one years, and on September 4, 1892, at the rare age of ninety-one, 
in the full possession of all her faculties and encircled by the affections of her children 
and grandchildren, she passed the evening of her life, and when her summons came, 
gently fell into her Saviour's arms and "'slumbered over" in the life beyond. 

Van Evera, Peter F., Glen, was born in Root August 23, 1856. He was one of three 
children of James P. and Maria (Vedder) Van Evera, the others being Mary Louisa, 
wife of Theodore Clark, and Ella Grace, who died at the age of fourteen. James P., 
the father, was born in Glen December 20, 1832, and is one of nine cliildren of Peter 
and Nancy (Leonardson) Van Evera, the former born in Canajoharie March 23, I80o, 
and the latter born in Root. The other children were: Charles S., John, Peter, Mil- 
lard F., Ida C, wife of W. T. Schuyler, Elizabeth E., widow of Jacob H. Starin; Jane 
Ann, wife of John Van Derveer ; and Mary Louisa, deceased. John R. Van Evera, 
great-grandfather of Peter F., was born in Holland and came to Montgomery county 
in early life. Peter F. was married October 10, 1878, to Emma, daughter of Christian 
and Elizabeth (Houck) Gardinier of Schoharie county. Mrs. Van Evera was one of 
three children, the others being: Anna, wife of Haslett Post; and Elizabeth C, who 
died in childhood. They have one daughter, Ella Grace. The grandfather of Emma 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 197 

Gardinier was Henry, and his wife was Elizabeth Enders Gardinier. Elizabeth Houck, 
her mother, was one of seven children of Henry and Margaret (Kniskern) Houck. 

Voorhees, Edward Gr., Glen, was born in Glen February 9, 1856, and is one of five 
children of Spencer and Eliza (Hutton) Voorhees, the others being Francis H., Annie 
C, wife of George Cross, Emma H., wife of John Stokes, and Ella, wife of Chauncy 
Ottman. Spencer, the father, was born in Florida, and was one of six children of John 
Voorhees of that town, the others being John, Nelson, Jane, wife of John Hutton, 
Eliza, and Mrs. David Rulison. Eliza Hutton, the mother, was one of four children of 
Timothy and Eliza Hutton. Edward G. Voorhees married, June 20, 1878, Henrietta 
Vunck, daughter of Reuben and Sally Ann (Hewitt) Vunck of Charles-ton. Mrs. Voor- 
hees's sisters were Lavina, wife of Daultford Hail ; Ella, wife of Albert Osleihout; and 
Lorena, wife of Alfred Osterhout. They have four children : Bessie E., Spencer, jr., 
Hetty B., and Foster H. Voorhees. 

Van Evera, James P., Canajoharie, was born in Glen on the 20th of December, 1831, 
and is a son of Peter and Nancy (Leonard) Van Evera, natives of this county, and both 
families among the early settlers of the Mohawk valley. In early life the father was 
a teacher and clerk in a store in Ames. He was a Whig and a Democrat in politics and 
for several terms was supervisor of his town. James P. was reared on a farm and fol- 
lowed farming for several years. In 1884 he came to Canajoharie and in 1888 became 
interested in the manufacture of refrigerators. He is president of the stock company 
of which A. G. Richmond is treasurer. They are doing an extensive Vmsiness, the 
largest of the kind in the Mohawk valley. On the 18th of October, 1842, Mr. Van 
Evera married Maria, a daughter of Francis B. Vedder of Glen, whose people were 
among the early settlers of the county. Mr. and Mrs. Van Evera have three children : 
Peter F., Mary Louisa, and Ellen Grace, deceased. Mr. Van Evera is a Democrat in 
politics. He and his wife are active members of the Reformed church. Both families 
are of Dutch origin. 

Vedder, Joshua, Palatine, was born in Palatine in 1824. His father was Aaron Ved- 
der, son of Arnold Vedder, a native of Schenectady and early settler of Stone Arabia, 
who married a Miss Doxtater, who bore him four sons and three daughters. Aaron 
Vedder was raised on a farm, educated at the common school, and married Catherine, 
daughter of John P. Gramps and wife (a Miss Bellinger), parents of one son and four 
daughters. Aaron and wife had four sons, two of whom died in Palatine. Joshua 
Vedder married Gertrude GrafT, a native of St. Johnsville. They have had five children, 
namely: Amanda (deceased), Edward (deceased), Catharine R., Mary, Arthur G. In 
1860 Mr. Vedder came to Nelliston, and in 1876, in partnership with his son-in-law, Mr. 
Snyder, engaged in the mercantile business, and they have since been known as the 
fashionable hatters and furriers of Fort Plain, carrying also a stock of men's furnishing 
goods. Mr. Vedder was supervisor of Palatine three years. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Reformed church, as were their ancestors- 
Wilson, Henry, Mohawk, son of Jacob, was born in Mohawk in 1806, spending most 
of his lifetime here, where he followed farming. He married Elizabeth Gross, and 
they had six children, four sons and two daughters; he died in 1841, and his widow is 



198 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

still living on the old farm owned by his daughter Maggie. The house is one of the old- 
est in the county, being built about 1743 by John Butler, who came from England. 
Henry, the only son of Henry Wilson living in this county, was born September 12, 
1830, and has always lived on the farm. He married Elizabeth Hillabrant, and their 
five children are Edward, Garry (deceased), May (deceased), Henry, and Harvey ; the 
three surviving children reside at home. 

Wagner, W. Clark, Palatine, was born in Minden, February 23, 1854. On the 
paternal side his father was Jeremiah Wagner ; his grandfather, William Wagner, and 
his great-grandfather, George Wagner. William Wagner was born in Palatine in 
1779, married Nancy Shults, and had twelve children. He died May 19, 1862, and his 
wife died a number of years afterwards. Jeremiah Wagner was born January 21, 
1814, and married Charlotte, daughter of William Getman of Ephratah. They had one 
son and two daughters. He was a tailor and resided in Fort Plain the greater part of 
his life. He died May 19, 1857, and his wife February 13, 1858. W. Clark Wagner 
became an orphan at four years of age, and was reared by his uncle, Kalhac W. Wag- 
ner of Palatine. He attended the common school, and chose the occupation of farm- 
ing. On February 1, 1882, he married Marietta, daughter of Henry and Elizabeth 
(Zimmerman) Sponable of Minden. They have four children : Albert C, Lottie E., 
Alice M. and George S. Mr. Wagner is a Democrat, and he and his family attend the 
Reformed church at Fort Plain. 

Wagner, Harvey E., Canajoharie, Fort Plain p. o.. was born in Minden, at Brook- 
man's Corners, August 18, 1841. and is a son of Charles and Ann B. (Brookraan) Wag- 
ner. The great-grandfather of our subject (Englehardt Wagner) was born in Ger- 
many, but the other ancestors were born m this country. Harvey Wagner, grand- 
father of our subject, was the father of six children, of which Charles was second 
youngest. He was born in Minden April 24, 1816, and was married to Ann Brookman 
October 25, 1838. They were the parents of two children : John H., born August 14, 
1839, and Harvey E., our subject. This family is one of the earliest settlers of this 
country, their ancestors living in Mmden previous to 1800. When Harvey was eight 
years old his parents moved into Canajoharie and bought the farm of 210 acres, where 
they now live. John H. enlisted in the 44th Regiment New York Volunteers, known 
as the " Elhworth Avengers," and was killed at the six days fight at the Wilderness at 
Spottsylvania court house, May, 1864. Our subject was educated in the public school, 
lived with and a-ssisted his father until his death, which occurred September 14, 1879. 
February 6, 1866, he married Anna Garlock of this town, and their union has been 
blessed by five children : Ida, wife of Dr. John Jackson of Fort Plain ; Lizzie, Viola, 
Lillian M., and Charlie P. Mr. Wagner is only interested in politics for the benefit of 
his country, but not an office seeker. He desires popularity as an honest, upright 
citizen, and successful farmer, which he has become by his own industry. 

Warner, Charles E., Amsterdam was born in Amsterdam, September 27, 1862, and . 
is a son of John and Jen nett (Mitchell) Warner. John Warner came to this country 
from England in 1850, when he was twelve years old, and located at Cohoes. Begin- 
ning with nothing but good habits he has built up the largest knit goods manufactory 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 199 

in Amsterdnm, tlie firm name being Warner, De Forest & Company. He has been a 
member of assembly for two terms, and is one of the most influential men of the city. 
■Charles E. was sent to the public schools, and thence went to a select school until 
twelve years of age, when he entered Amsterdam Academy. From thence he went 
into his father's mills ir 1879, learning the knitter's trade, and in 1881 he became 
foreman of the knitting room in mill number 2. In June, 188C, he resigned this posi- 
tion to enter into partnership with iiis uncle, William Warner, in Rockton. On June 
15, 1881, he married Hattie A., daughter of James and Louisa (West) Pitts of 
Ballston Spa. Mrs. Pitts, mother of Mrs. Warner, was a sister of George West of 
Ballston. They are the parents of three children : John W., born February 22, 1883; 
Louis H., born April 12, 1888, and Jessie Anna Warner, born August 2, 1892. William 
Warner, his uncle and partner, died January 26, 1892, leaving Charles in full control 
of the manufactory. The firm has built up a fine business, employing eighty workers. 
They make a specialty of knit jersey overshirts, men's shirts and drawers, and chil- 
dren's underwear. Mr. Warner says they are now doing a business of $100,000 a 
year, being three times the amount they did the first year they were in the business. 
He has bought a beautiful residence in Rockton, where he now makes his home. 

Wilkie, Henry 0., Amsterdam, was born at Charlton, November 14, 1853. He was 
educated in the public schools and Charlton Academy, and when a boy he worked on a 
farm and taught school several winters. In 1880 he came to Amsterdam, entering the 
employ of I. C Shuler & Company, where he remained until 1890, when he started a 
grocery store, a business he still continues. July 22, 1885, he married Carrie A., only 
-daughter of William A. and Martha A. Firth of this city. They had three children, 
a son and a daughter died of scarlet fever, Walter 0. is living. Mr. Wilkie's father, 
Elbert, was born at the old home in Saratoga county in the year 1822 and married 
Sophronia J. Snow of Batchelorville of his native county ; they had eight children, six 
survive : Henry, Grace, Franc W., Addison, John and Joseph. 

Warring, Charles H., Amsterdam, was born in Amsterdam in 1860, and was educated 
in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. He has always been a manufacturer 
and is now making knit goods under the firm of Gardiner <fe Warring. His father, 
James E., was born in Utica, and married Alida Sanford of this city. They have two 
children, a son and a daughter, Charles H. and Mary S. His grandfather, Jeremiah 
Warring, was born in Connecticut in 1789 and came to this state when a young boy 
with his parents; he married Sarah Bartlett, by whom he had nine children. He 
died in 1873. He had a representative in the war of 1812. James E., the father 
of Charles H., was the youngest child of the family. 

Waldron, Hicks B., Amsterdam, was born in Waterford, July 17, 1840, and he was 
educated in the public schools and at Ballston Spa Institute under Dr. Babcock. He 
studied law with George G. Scott of that place, and was admitted to the bar in 1862 
and began to practice at Albany the same year. In 1803 he went west and was 
docket clerk of the Kansas House of Representatives and^afterwards was chief clerk 
of the United States disbursing office of the department of Kansas, Nebraska, Color- 
ado and Dakota for three years. Returning to Amsterdam in 1866 he has held the 



200 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERT COUNTY. 

ofHce of president of the village, police justice and justice of the peace, was one of 
the members of the first board of sewer commissioners, was mayor of the city in 
1890 91, and has been for the last ten years a member of the board of education. 
For the past two sessions was deputy clerk of the assembly. He married Eva E, 
Gun.iaul of Perth, by whom he had two sons : William G. and Frank E. For hi» 
second wife he married Harriet M Gildersleeve of Hornellsville, and they have three 
children, one son and two daughters : George G., Kittie May and Lillian P. Mr. 
Waldron is a past-master of Artisan Lodge, No. 84, F. & A. M.. and member of 
Montgomery Lodge, No. 47, L 0. 0. F., and of Neoskaleeta Tribe, No. 149, of Im- 
proved Order of Red Men. 

Snyder, Orlando C, Amsterdam, was born in Sharon, Wisconsin, October 24, 1848, 
and came with his parents to Sharon, Schoharie county, when he was four years old. 
He was educated in ihe district schools and is by occupation a ma.«on, contractor and 
b lilder, also fine oruamental worker. On November 24, 1875, he married Sarah, sixth 
daughter of Isaac and Alida Loutks of Sharon, and they have had four children, three 
sons and one daughter: Ira D., died at the age of five years; Chauncey L., died at the 
age of thirteen months; Willie H., died at the age of five months, and Nellie M., who 
survives. Mr. Snyder's father. Dr. James D. Snyder, was born in the town of Sharon, 
and was well educated. In early Hfe he was reared on a farm and afterwards gradu- 
ated in medicine and practiced until his death in this State ; he married Maria Relyea 
formerly of Albany county, by whom he had six children, four sons and two daughters : 
John W., Orlando C, Mary O., David J. N., and IdaM., and John who died in infancy. 
The ancesstry of the fanjily is Dutch, and thegreat-grandpareutsof Mr. and Mrs. Snyder 
came from Holland. Mr. Snyder's people were in the revolutionary war. Mr. Snyder 
is a member of Lodge 2vd A. O. U. W. of Amsterdam, also of Neoskaleeta Tribe No. 
149 of Improved Order of Red Men, also of the American Mechanic's Association. 

White, Edward Pay son, Amsterdam, was born on the 21st of March, 1858, in Am- 
sterdam, and was educated in the private schools and Amsterdam Acadetcy and gradu- 
ated from Union College in 1879 with the first honors. The following two years he 
taught the classics at LeRoy Academy, and in 1881-83 he was the editor of the Am- 
sterdam Duily Democrat He then entered Harvard Law School and in September, 1884, 
was admitted to t'ue bar and began to practice in Amsterdam. He has been city attor- 
ney for three terms. On the 7th of September, 1887, he married Mary L., oldest 
daughter of Jrhn R. and Elizabeth N. Olmsted of LeRoy. Her father is an able lawyer 
of that place. His faiher, Joseph N., was born in the town of Deerfield, Oneida county, 
on the 4lh of July, 1816, and was educated in Oberlin College, and graduated from the 
Ohio Medical College and practiced in Cincinnati several years. He came to Amster- 
dam in the early part of 1855, where he continued in active practice for thirty-five years. 
He was one of the pioneers of homoeopathy in this part of the State, and a prominent 
member and officer of the Medical Societies of the New School. On the 15th of May, 
18c5, he married Catherine J. Maxwell of Johnstown. They had five children, three sons 
and two daughters: Doctor William M., a practicing physician here, Edward P., Sarah 
E., Lucy M., and Joseph N., a student in Union College. Joseph N., the father, died 
on the 14th of April, 1890. 



FAMILY SKETCHES 201 

Weniple, Dow, son of Barney, was born June 30, 1769, in Fonda. He was a black- 
smith and had a shop in Fonda in 1811. He bought the farm where his grandson. Bar- 
ney, now lives. He married Angelica Zieley and had five sons and four daughters. 
He died in 1850. His father, Barney, was one of the first settlers in Fonda. He built 
the grist-mill in that place, and was a dealer in furs. He was in the revolutionary army 
and was killed at Oriskany. The Indians burned his mill and his widow had it rebuilt 
during the war. David Wemple, son of Dow and Angelica Wemple was born in Fonda 
March 26, 1804. He married EvalineLottridge, daughter of Robert, He was a farmer, 
and kept the Montgomery county poor-house four years. He held various offices, and 
had a family of four children. He died in August, 1862, and his wife May 26, 1840, 
Barney, son of David, was born December 27, 1826, He has always been a farmer, 
and held several town offices. March 27, 1848, he married Margaret, daughter of Lucas 
Sponenburg, by whom he had seven children. She died in 1877, and he married second, 
Malinda Sponenburg. His children are: David, married Margaret Doxtater; Adam, 
married Ella Devenburg ; Catherine, wife of Walter Coleman; Elizabeth, wife of W. 
Wilson ; Simon of Saybrook, Conn, 

Williams, Cornelius v., Amsterdam, was born in Florida on the 12th of July, 1854, 
and was educated in the public schools. In early life he was a farmer but in 1880 he 
located in the Fifth Ward of this city. He is an alderman and represents the Fifth 
Ward and also conducts a large creamery. On the 3 1st of December, 1879, he married 
Cora B,, second daughter of Charles and Oliver C. Wright of Florida. They have three 
children, two daughters and one son : Oliver M., Charles, and Ada E. Mr. Williams's 
father (Peter) was born in Peterboro in 1820 and married Martha M, Van Home, who 
came to this city in 1888, They had five children : Cornelius V., Emma, who married 
W. J. Sweet of the town of Florida; Mary E., married William Serviss of ihis city; 
Sarah A., married Albert Francisco also of this city ; and Jennie who resides at home 
with her mother. Mrs. Williams's father was born in Westerlo, Albany county, and 
married Olive C. Fancher of Florida and had five children, 

Myers, Augustus, Amsterdam, was born in Prussia, Germany, December 15, 1845, 
and at the age of eight years came with his parents to the United States in 1853 ; he 
first located in Charlton, and soon after went to West Galway, December 16, 1863, 
he enlisted from Schenectady county in Company E, Thirteenth Heavy Artillery, N. Y, 
S. Volunteers, was honorably discharged August 25, 1865, and then came to Amster- 
dam where he resided most of the time. He has followed the occupation of a con- 
tractor and builder for twenty three years in this city. October 7, 1867, he married 
Dora E., only daughter of Alexander and Esther J. McCann of Scotch Bush (Florida), 
and they have three children, two sons and a daughter: W, Fenton, who is an attorney- 
at-law residing in Chicago; John A., who is a clerk in this city; and Julia A. who 
resides at home, Mr. Myers is a member of E. S, Youngs Post No, 33 G. A. R, of the 
department of New York, and past junior vice-commander of the post. 

De Graff, Jeremiah H,, Amsterdam, Cranesville p, o,, was a son of Peter and Mary 
(Seaman) De Graff, and was born in the house where his present residence is, January 
4, 1824, Peter De Graff, father of our subject, was a son of Frederick and Elizabeth 



202 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

De Graff. Frederick, the grai.dfather of Jerpmiah, came to this country about 1771 and 
bought a tract of land extending from the creek at Cranesville to a Httle east of Chuc- 
tenunda, along the MohaT\-k and north into the interior one mile, of ■which Jeremiah 
has the old deed, written on parchment. He was the father of nine children, of which 
Peter was next to the youngest, and he was the father of four children : Susannah, 
who died at twenty-two years of age; Maria, afterwards Mrs. Clute ; Andrew, who 
died at sixty-five at the old homestead; and Jeremiah. Mrs. Clute married at fifty- 
three years of age and has always lived at the old place, where she and her husband 
botli died within a few hours of each other, April 2, 1892, and they were buried on the 
4th in one grave. Mrs. Clute was mourned by all the representative families of the 
town by whom she was loved as a charitable and Christian lady. Jeremiah's early life 
was spent at home attending school until he was fourteen, when he shipped aboard a 
whaler at New Bedford. Mass. He tells many stories of his life at sea, cruising on the 
coast of Alaska during the summer, then going to warmer latitudes m search of sperm 
whale during the winter. . He has made the circle of the earth four times in this busi- 
ness, which he quit in 1846. In 1850 he married Harriet Kinney of De Ruyter, Madi- 
son county, and they were the parents of two children : Jerome K., born August 29, 
1851, now living at the old homestead, and Selona L., now Mrs. Porter H. Stanton of 
Chenango county, born May 22, 1853. Jerome was married July 25, 1874, to Mary J. 
Baker of Lincoln. Chenango county, and their union has been blessed by three children, 
but one is living, Fred J., born July 3, 1879. Mr.-. J. De Graff died April 10, 1892, at 
sixty-one years of age. 

De Graff, Isaac J., Amsterdam, was born in Amsterdam, October 26, 1845, and was 
educated in the public schools; he was a farmer until 1872 when he came to Amster- 
dam and was a grocery merchant for two years. He then accepted a position in the 
American Express office which he held three years ; he is now engaged m the hardware 
business which he has followed for fifteen years, first with George Overbaugh, and then 
with A. McLaffray. He then formed a copartnership with Oliver S. Kline, purchasing 
the hardware stock of Schuler Bros, and consolidating both under one firm name, De 
Graff <t Kline. On December 31, 1866, he married Agnes, fifth daughter of Abram 
and Martha Levy of this city. Mr. De Graff died in the year 1878. On July 4, 1880, 
he married Marion T. Leffray of this city ; they have one daughter, Carrie Mildred. 
Mr. De Graft "s father, Jeremiah, was born in Amsterdam in 1805 and married Mahala 
Collins of the same place. They had seven children, one s-on and six daughters. The 
old ancestor came from Holland as early as 1710, coming up the Mohawk river in flat 
boats with his goods and family and staymg over night half a mile west of Crane vil- 
lage. Being pleased with the place they remained there, after making satisfactory ar- 
rangements with the Indians, and this place has ever since been owned by some of the 
De Graff family. 

Yates, E. Lansing, Canajoharie, was born in Mohawk about a mile north of Fonda, 
September 5, 1811, and is a son of Everett and Catharine fFonda) Yates. Three 
brothers of this name came from Yorkshire, England, two of whom went south, and 
the third, Joseph Yates, settled near Albany, in Rensselaer county, and it is from this 
root that the family have grown. The grandfather of our subject, Christopher, was a. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 203 

grandson of Joseph Yates, and he was the father of six sons, of whom Everett, father 
of E. Lansing, was the oldest. He was born in Rensselaer county, and came to this 
county about 1788-89, locating in Mohawk. His wife, Catharine Fonda, was a native 
of Mohawk, and they were the parents of seven children, of whom Lansing is the only 
one living. His early life was spent in Mohawk, where he attended the common schools 
and assisted on his father's farm until he was of age, when he started out for himself. 
He married m 1834, Catharine Doxtader of Mohawk, and they had two children: Je- 
rome Yates, a merchant of New York ; and John Yates, a farmer of Hopewell Junction. 
Mrs. Yatea died m 1839 and Mr. Yates took for his second wife Catharme Abel of the 
town of Glen, and of their children four survive : Elizabeth, wife of William H. Lippen- 
cott of New York ; Mount A., of the firm of Yates & Dain of Canajoharie; Gilbert M., 
a merchant of Minneapolis; and Preston K., a civil engineer of New York. In 1837 
Mr. Yates moved into Canajoharie, where, with the exception of from 1841 to 1849 he 
followed farming until 1863, and then, after a rest of six years, he entered the malting 
business, in which he has since been engaged. Mr. Yates was one of the original di- 
rectors of the Canajoharie National Bank, holding that office till 1872. 

Sloan, Peter, Canajoharie, dentist of Canajoharie, was born in Johnstown on the 
13th of May, 1835, a son of Samuel and Aseneth Swift Sloan, who was a blacksmith 
for many years. He was a Scotchman and came to America about 1820 ; his wife was 
from Massachusetts of old New England stock and traces her family history back for 
nearly two hundred years. Peter Sloan was educated at Johnstown and studied with 
Dr. Abbott in 1857 and 1858. He commenced his practice in his native town, where 
he remained for some years, then came here in 1861 and has always enjoyed a fine 
practice, In December, 1862, he married Lucretia Wright of Albany ; they have five 
children, two sons and three daughters: Ina, wife of William S. Van West, optician ; 
William Irving, Samuel Maxwell, Alice, and Lucretia W. The doctor is an indepen- 
dent in politics. 

Walrath, William, Palatine, was born in Palatine in 1850. His father was Josiah, 
and his grandfather w'as William, son of Isaac, a native of Palatine. The grandfather, 
William, married Lany Wagner, and had one daughter and five sons, all of whom were 
members of the Stone Arabia church. Both parents died in Palatine. Josiah Walrath 
was born in 1820, and married Nancy Loucks, who bore him three sons and one daugh- 
ter. He held various town offices, and he and his wife were members of the Reformed 
church. He died in 1867 and his wife in 1873. William Walrath was raised on a farm 
and was educated at the common school. He married in 1887 Libbie (born in Hudson), 
daughter of James Moore; they have one daughter, Irene E. Mr. Walrath has held 
town offices, is a member of Fort Plain Lodge No. 433, F. and A. M., and is a Demo- 
crat. 

Van Home, Rev. Abram, was born in White House, N. J., in 1763, and was educated 
at the New Brunswick Collegiate Institute. He married Anna Covenhoven, daughter 
of Cornelius, who owned 1,400 acres of land, and was a man of wealth. He came to 
Fonda about 1795 and preached at the Dutch Reformed church over forty years. He 
also assisted in organizing many churches in this State and two in Canada. He died 



•204 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

January 5, 1840, aud his wife November 14 of tlie same year. Abram A. Van Home, 
son of Rev. Abram, was born January 27, 1790, and came to Fonda with his father, 
when a small boy. He married Jane Fonda, who was born November 6, 1792, and 
was a granddaughter of Jellis Fonda. They had a family of nine children. Mr. Tan 
Home died April 14, 1871, and his wife March 21, 1881. He was a farmer, and owned 
beside, a tannery, shoe shop, blacksmith shop and store. He was a member of assem- 
bly in 1825-26, justice of the peace for twenty-seven years, and he and his wife were 
members of the Dutch Reformed church. Giles H. Fonda Tan Home, son of Abram 
A. and Jane, was born June 11, 1816, in Caughnawaga (now Fonda), and was educated 
at the Canajoharie aud Johnstown Academies. On August 2, 1836, he married Cath- 
arine Veeder. by whom he had four children, all of whom died in infancy. His wife 
died February 26, 1844. He married second, Margaret E., daughter of Colonel N. 
Smith of Utica, October 7, 1845, and they had five children, three of whom survive. 
He has been engaged in farming all his life. In 1835 he built the Montgomery hotel 
and opened it in 1836. He kept it for twelve and a half years, and is still the owner. 
He was postmaster for the Assembly in 1862-63, clerk for the insurance committee in 
1864-65 ; deputy-sheriff three years ; town superintendent of school three years, and 
was constable and poormaster. When eijhteen years old he joined the State militia, 
and was captain and lieutenant-colonel. In 1862 he was appointed enrolling officer for 
Montgomery county. In 1865 when President Lincoln's body lay in state at Albany, 
he was appointed marshal and was officer of the day. He is a Democrat, and has taken 
an active part in politics. He has been delegate to state, congressional and senatorial 
conventions. He was also marshal of the day at the centennial of Hamilton College. 
He is an Odd Fellow, and a member of the Episcopal church. In the former he has 
taken all the degrees. He has been a member and officer of the State Agricultural 
Society since its inception, and has frequently been in important service in this connec- 
tion. 

Putman, John Y., Glen, Auriesville p. o., was born in Glen March 14, 1844. He was 
one of four children of Victor A. and Evaline (Van Home) Putman. His father. Abram 
T. Putman, was also born in Glen. Her father, Cornelias Van Home, and mother, 
Hannah (Van Home) Van Home, were also natives of the same town. John V. Put^ 
man was married in September, 1864. to Mary K. Van Buren, one of two children of 
Jeremiah and Caroline (Shelp) Van Buren of Glen. They have two children : Carrie 
(Mrs. F. J. Houpt of Fultonville), and Abram V. Putman. Mr. Putman has always lived 
in the town of Glen, has acted as justice of the peace, as assessor for three years, and 
is now supervisor of the town for a second term. 

Wagner, Chauncey, Palatine, cousin of the late Senator Wagner; was bom in Pala- 
tine August 5, 1821. His father was George, and his grandfather also George, who, 
with three brothers, Joseph, Peter and John, came from Germany before the revolu- 
tion. George Wagner, sr., was in the revolutionary army and was wounded at the 
battle of Oriskany. He settled on a farm near where Chauncey Wagner now lives. 
About a hundred years ago he built the house now occupied by Chauncey, in which he 
died. He had three sons and four daughters. George, jr., was born in Palatine June 
9, 1793. He was reared a farmer and educated at the common school. His wife was 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 205 

Margaret Strayer, by whom he had three sons aud three daughters. He was a farmer 
«nd a hotel-keeper, and was supervisor of Palatine before the county was divided. He 
and his family were members of the Lutheran church at Palatine. He died August 10, 
1873, and his wife September 4, 1873. Chauncey Wagner received his education at the 
common school, supplemented by several terms at the Clinton Liberal Institute. He 
has always lived on the farm where lie was born. He married, October 2, 1849, Emi- 
line, daughter of Colonel Amos and Lucinda (Todd) Foster of Herkimer county. Mr. 
Wagner has been an active Democrat, and has held town offices. His wife is a mem- 
ber of the Universalist church at Fort Plain. 

Waterstreet, John H., Amsterdam, was born in Glenville January 10. 1857, was edu- 
cated in the public schools, and in early life worked on a farm He came to Amster- 
dam in 1880, where he was clerk for David Strauss in his wholesale and retail grocery 
store for two and a half years. He was also with James E. Dowsland eight years (un- 
til his death), and one year with Mrs. Dowsland, when he, in company with J. L. Fred- 
endal, bought the business and conducted it for a while. Mr. Waterstreet purchased 
Mr. Fredendal's interest and conducts the business on bis own account. On January 
8, 1883, he married Augusta, youngest daughter of Frederick Wilkie. They have three 
children, one son and two daughters ; Ernest, Amelia and Florence. Mr. Waterstreet's 
father, John D., was born in Germany and came to the United States when a young 
man. He married Maria Speckeen, by whom he had nine children, five sons and four 
daughters: John H.. Joseph C, Annie, Daniel, Elias, Samuel, Augusta, and Theodore. 

Carson, Silas, Amsterdam, was born in Root June 21, 1842, and was educated in the 
public schools, and in early life was a farmer. After leaving school he learned the 
carpenter's trade and in 1876 came to Amsterdam, where he has since been a contractor 
and builder. On April 21, 1870, he married Lavenna, second daughter of Henry and 
Lucmda Walters of Fonda, and they had two children : Henry W., who died aged 
seven years ; and Lucinda, who died aged five years. Mr. Carson's father, John, was born 
in Glen April 2, 1806, and married Margaret Beekman, by whom he had six children : 
Martin J., Stephen J., Silas, William H., Elizabeth A., and Martin M. His brother, 
Martin J., was a soldier in the late war and was assistant engineer on the gunboat 
" Ellen " and died of yellow fever. He also had an uncle Elisha, who was in the late 
war, and died in one of the prison pens of the south. Two cousins also served in the 
late war. 

Walrath, Harry, St. Johnsville, was born in Minden June 27, 1845, and is a son of 
Jeremiah and Mary (Zoller) Walrath, and grandson of Peter Walrath, whose father 
was also named Peter, and who came from Holland. Our subject's grandfather was 
born in Minden May 15, 1786, and served in the war of 1812 as a commissioned officer, 
at Sackett's Harbor. His wife was Elizabeth Duesler, bj' whom he had three children : 
Eva, Elizabeth Margaret and Jeremiah. He died at the age of sixty-five, and his wife 
in her ninety-second year. Our subject's father was born January 16, 1815, in Minden, 
where he lived and died March 22, 1873, aged sixty-five years. His wife, who sur- 
vived him, bore him four children : Maggie, Berzee Harry. Carrie and Seward. Harry 
Walrath was educated in the Clinton Liberal Institute, and graduated from Eastman's 



206 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Business College in March, 1866. In 1876 he entered the employ of the railroad and 
in 1879 began as conductor in the Wagner car service on various lines. In 1886 he be- 
gan as passenger conductor on the New York Central. In ISSS he located where he 
now resides in St. Johnsville. He is a Mason, a Republican, and a member of the 
order of railway conductors. September 26, 1878, he married Kate, daughter of Mat- 
thew and Gertrude (Myers) Dygert of Herkimer county. Matthew Dygert raised the 
Second New York Artillery and was a collector of internal revenue, and was also a 
merchant in New York and Mohawk. He had two daughters, Kate and Jennie. 

Patten, David S., Palatine, was born in Palatine June 27. ISSi. His father was John 
Patten, a native of Danube, and his grandfather was Henry Patten, born in Germany 
and an early settler of Herkimer county. He was a carpenter, and was killed by fall- 
ing from a building. John Patten came to Palatine in 1830 and bought the farm now 
owned by David S. His wife was Elizabeth Hatmaker, who bore him one son and one 
daughter. They were members of the Reformed church at Stone Arabia. David S. 
Patten was raised on the farm, and married Margaret, daughter of Joseph and Mar- 
garet (Fox) England of Palatine. They have had the following children : John J., 
Margaret, Annie, and Ella, who died in infancy. Mr. Patten is a Democrat, has been 
supervisor two years, assessor nine years, commissioner of highways three years, and 
overseer of the poor sis years. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran church 
at Canajoharie. 

Lutton, Charles A., Amsterdam, was horn at Hagaman's Mills January 10, 1860, was 
educated in the public schools of Amsterdam and afterwards in a private school. He • 
was in the employ of I. C. Shuler & Company eight years, afterwards about 1882 he 
began the undertaking and livery busines.'s, which he has since conducted. His father, 
Charles Lutton, was born in the north of Ireland about 1823 and married Elizabeth 
Cole of his native country, coming hither soon afterward. They had four children : 
Rebecca, who died in 1862 ; EHzabeth, Charles A., as above noted, and Emma, who re- 
sides at home with their mother. The father died November 7, 1888, from an accident. 
Mr. Lutton is a member of Artisan Lodge No. 84, F. & A. M. ; Amsterdam Chapter 
No. 81. R. A. M.. and of Kennyetto Tribe No. 110, L O. R. M. ; also of Woodbine 
Lodge No. 250, K. of P., of which he is past chancellor. He is colonel of the second 
regiment uniform rank of the K. of P., and is a member of the Austin division of the 
U. R. K. P. 

Gilbert, Charles N., Amsterdam, was born in Albany, December 15, 1863, and was 
educated in the graded schools of the city, also in the Albany High School, and grad- 
uated from the Albany College of Pharmacy in 1885. He came to Amsterdam in the 
year 1888, formed a copartnership with S. F. Powell in the wholesale and retail drug 
business and grocers' sundries, under the firm of Powell & Gilbert, on East Main street. 
Mr. Gilbert's father, J. H., Ph. D., was born in Durham, Greene county, in 183'1, was 
educated in Le Raysville Academy and Delaware Literary Institute, and holds the po- 
sition of professor of mathematics in the Albany High School. He married Abigail E. 
Newell of his native state and town, and they had five children, two sons and three 
daughters. Mr. Gilbert is a member of the board of trade and president of the Y. M. 
0. A. The family is of English and Scotch descent. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 207 

Hoflfman, Silas I., St. Johnsville, was born December 12, 1857, at Little Falls, and is 
A son of Jacob and Margaret (Fusselman) Hoffman, and grandson of Simon, who came 
from Germany and died at Little Falls. Our subject's father carried on a meat market 
and canal grocery in Little Falls. He was the fatlier of seven children. Silas L Hoff- 
man received a common school education, and at eleven began to earn his own living; 
first in a mill for two years, then one year in a news room, then in a clothing store for 
two years, ami in 1874 entered the N. Y. Central freight house as helper. In 1880 he 
came to St. Johnsville and has been agent since. In 1887 he returned to Little Falls as 
freight agent until 1890; he is also agent for express companies. He married on No- 
vember 29, 1879, Elizabeth, daughter of Michael and Nancy (^Bellinger) Levee, who 
bore him two children : Edna L. and Leland S. He has held prominent positions in 
social, fraternal and benevolent societies, and is now president of the board of education 
of St. Johnsville. 

Quiri, Edward A.. Amsterdam, was born in Amsterdam March 20, 1861, but at the 
age of twelve j'ears he moved with his parents to Florida, where he remained twelve 
years. He was educated in the public schools and became a clerk in S. B. Thing & 
Company's boot and shoe store, where remained three years. In the spring of 1889 he 
formed a copartnership with Henry Clark and went into the boot and shoe business 
under the firm of Quiri & Clark. The copartnership was dissolved in 1890, and Mr. 
Quiri conducts it alone with success. October 5, 1887, he married Elizabeth Lindsay of 
this city, and they have a son, Edward L. Mr. Quiri's father, Edward, was born in 
Alsace, France (now Grermany), in 1836, and when a young man came to the United 
States. In 1856 he married Mary A. Yund formerly of his native place ; they had 
seven children, five sons and two daughters : Edward A., Charles, Alfred, Victor, Eu- 
gene, Mary and Caroline. Mr. Quiri's father was a soldier in the English army in the 
Crimean war and holds an honorable discharge. Edward A. Quiri is a member of 
Montgomery Lodge No. 47, I. 0. O. F. 

Bellinger, Otto, St. Johnsville, was born in Mmden, July 29, 1863, a son of Henry P. 
and Lucy (Klock) Bellinger, and grandson of Philip, whose father was Christian, a 
revolutionary soldier, who was captured by the Indians and carried to Canada. Philip 
Bellinger was born in Danube. He married a Miss Timmerman and raised six sons and 
four daughters, all of whom grew to maturity and raised families. Henry P. Bellinger 
was born in Herkimer county, December 3, 1828, and was raised a farmer. About 
1844 he moved to Mmden and located on 150 acres of land; he now owns 240 acres. 
April 3, 1888, he moved to St. Johnsville, where he owns one of the finest homes in the 
village. He married, January 7, 1842, Lucy, daughter of John B. and Eva (Timmer- 
man) Klock, who bore him three children : Emery, Eva (wife of Alvin Dygert), and 
Otto. The latter was educated in the conmion schools and Clinton Liberal Institute, 
graduating in 1882. 

Walrath, Seward, St. Johnsville, was born July 18, 1855, in Minden, and is a son of 
Jeremiah and Mary (Zoller) Walrath, and grandson of Peter Walrath. The subject's 
father was born in Minden, where he spent his life as a farmer. He was a Republican and 
served in several town offices. He was a Universalist, and owned 114 acres, the farm 



208 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

on which his father settled. He had four children : Maggie Berzee, Harry, Carrie and 
Seward. He died in 1875 and his widow survives. Seward Walrath was raised on a. 
farm and educated at Fort Edward. In 1877 he began clerking for Smith Bros., where 
he worked for four years, and then was six years with G. Buckinghorn. October 10, 
1888. he began for himself and has been successful. He is a Republican and a Mason 

RufF, William, Florida, one of the two children of William A. and Mary J. (Ladd) 
RufF, was born in Florida on the 25th day of November, 1854. William A., the father, 
was born in the same town in 1827. His mother was a native of Duanesburg, and he has 
one sister, Mrs. Nettie Duealer, living in Florida. William RufF was married November 
22, 1876, to Anna B., daughter of James and Selina (Holmes) Filkins of Duanesburgh, 
but she was born in England. They have two children, Carrie and Lena RufF. 

Moore, David, Mohawk, Johnstown p. o., son of John F. L,, married Ann G. Quilhot, 
and had a family of eight children, four sons and four daughters. Of these children 
seven are living. Mr. Moore was a farmer and died March 17, 1889. His widow re- 
sides on the homestead farm. Henry, son of David, was born February 27, 1860, and 
carries on the home farm. He is a member of Johnstown Grange, and is lecturer for 
1892. The family are members of the Johnstown Lutheran Church. 

Pruyn, Jacob, Root, was born in Glen, November 14, 1846, and died Septembr 10, 
1892. He was one of nine children of Jacob and Catharine (Holtzberger) Pruyn, the 
others being Francis H., Marion Elizabeth, Milton, Catharine and Isabella (the two lat- 
ler deceased), Harvey, Charles, and Anna Augusta. Jacob, the father, was born in 
Berne, Albany county, October 28, 1808, and his wife, Catharine, was born in Florida, 
August 18, of the same year. Francis I. Pruyn, the grandfather, was born in Albany, 
January 30, 1781. His wife, Tenette (De Forest) Pruyn was born in Florida, January 
9, 1787. Jacob Pruyn, the great-grandfather, was also born in Albany. Francis 
Pruyn, his father, married Alida Van Evera, a native of Amsterdam (Holland), who at 
the age of about eighty-two made a will (under date of August 20, 1767), bequeathing 
to her descendants, among other property, a number of negro slaves. That will, to- 
gether with her wedding ring and other heirlooms, including a table which came from 
Holland over 200 years ago, is now in possession of Marion E. Pruyn. 

Getman, George, Palatine, was born in Palatine, April 14, 1828. His father was 
Casper and his grandfather was George Getman. The latter was a native of Ephratab, 
and a farmer. He married Margaret Cook and had four sons and three daughters, and 
they both died in ,Ephratah. Casper Getman, born in Ephratah, was a farmer, and 
married Elizabeth Bauder of Palatine ; they had two sons and two daughters. He was 
a highway commissioner, and a member of the Reformed Church, and his wife of the 
Lutheran Church. They both died in Palatine. George Getman was a farmer, edu- 
cated at the common school, and married Magdalen, daughter of Levi Dillenback of 
Palatine. Their children were as follows : Samantha, Alvia, Casper, Emma, Byron, 
and Arwillma. Mrs. Getman died and later on Mr. Getman married Elizabeth, daugh- 
ter of Thomas and Margaret (Edwards) Reid of Ephratah. They had two children: 
William (deceased), and Lizzie A. Mr. Getman is a Democrat and held the offices of 
assessor, collector, and excise commissioner. He is a member of Canajoharie Lodge F» 



FAMILY SKETCHES 209 

& A. M., and lie and liis family have always been supporters of the Reformed Church 
at Stone Arabia. Casper, third child of George, at present resides on the old home- 
stead. He was born July 24, 1857, reared on a farm and educated at the common 
school. In 1S8G he married Florence N., daughter of Thomas Sammons. of Sammons- 
ville (father of three sons and six daughters). They have one child, G. Russell. Mr. 
Getman is a Democrat, a justice of the peace, a member of Stone Arabia Grange No. 
690, and he and his wife are members of the Reformed Church at Stone Arabia. 

Bunn, David C, Charleston, was born in Charleston June 15, 1845. He was one of 
two children of William C. and Sarah (Goewey) Bunn. H'e was married June 20, 1879, 
to Anne E. Earing, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Ostrander) Earing; she being 
one of two children ; Cornelia, her sister, died in early life. Jacob, the father, was a 
son of Michael Earing of Rensselaer county, and was one of four children. Elizabeth 
(Ostrander) Earing was one of eleven children of Peter and Hannah (Cooper) Ostran- 
der of Rensselaer county. The Earings came from Greenbush, Rensselaer county, to 
Charleston in 1877, settling on the farm which they now occupy. David C. Bunn and 
wife, Anna, are living with them. 

Hammond, Worden, Mohawk, son of John Hammond, was born in Providence, R. I. 
His father was a Baptist minister and settled where the city of Utica now is. He was 
the first minister, and his wife organized the first Sunday school there. They had three 
sons, Worden, John and Calvin, and they were all surveyors, and assisted in laying out 
the city of Utica. Worden married Catliua Fonda, widow of Henry Fonda, and daugh- 
ter of Christopher Yates. In 1807 he settled in Fonda and followed surveying until 
his death, June 27, 1813. His wife died in 1852. They had five sons : John, Christo- 
pher Y., Worden, Henry F., and Luther. Christopher Y., the only survivor, was born 
October 28, 1805. He received a common school education and married Pamelia 
Quackenbush of Glen. They had two children, both deceased, Luther G. and Mary 
Ellen. For twelve years Mr, Hammond was in the produce and commission business 
in Albany ,fand for three years in New York. He was in the health department in the 
latter city for six years. He and his wife are the oldest living members of the Reformed 
church. The beautiful cemetery of Fonda was a present from Mr. Hammond to the 
corporation. 

Groff, Benjamin, St. Johnsville, was born where he now resides, November 18. 1812, 
and is a son of Christian and Catherine (Nestle) Groff. His grandfather Groff came 
from Germany in colonial days and settled in Palatine, where he died; his wife died 
in St. Johnsville, aged ninety-six. They were members of the Lutheran church. Chris- 
tian Groff was born in Palatine and settled on one hundred acres where our subject 
resides, about 1790, and where he spent his life, dyingin 1843, aged seventy-two. Chris- 
tian served in the war of 1812. He and his wife were Lutherans. Benjamin Giofl' 
was self-educated, and at the age of thirty-four he took charge of the homestead. He 
married Lany A, daughter of Nicholas J. and Catharine (Flanders) Smith, and they 
had nine children. Martha, died at seven ; Alonzo, died at twenty-one; James, died at 
eleven; Mary Cress; Catharine Storms; Lucinda Failing; Daniel; Fayette; and Em- 
ily, died at seven months. Mrs. Groff died in March, 1878, aged sixty-seven. 



210 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Groff, Fayette, was born where he now resides, January 29, 1853, and is a son of 
Benjamin and Lany (Smith) Groff. At the age of twenty-two he started for himself 
on the farm he now occupies. He is an ingenious man and possesses a fertile mind. 
He married, September 8, 1875, Antoinette, daughter of John and Gertrude ( Klock ) 
Burkdorf. They have two children : Lucinda and Floyd B. He and his wife are active 
Lutherans. 

Bellinger, Jacob M., Root, son of Andrew W. and Elizabeth (Lipe) Bellinger, was 
bore November 1, 1835, on the farm where he now resides, which belonged also to hig 
father and his grandfather. He received a common school education, and in politics is 
a Republican. His grandfather was William Bellinger of Holland, who was one of the 
one hundred pioneers of Root, and died at the age of seventy-four years, June 13, 
1833 ; his wife, Hannah, died May 22, 1825. He was a farmer, and reared four sons 
and four daughters: John, Philip, Margaret, wife of Jacob Dievendorf, Catharine, wife 
of Jacob Lasher ; Elizabeth, wife of Cornehus Runkle ; Maria, wife of William Chris- 
ler; Andrew and Conrad. He was a large land owner. His son Andrew W., father 
of our subject, was born in Root October 15, 1790, and died September 17, 1859, at the 
age of sixty-eight years and eleven months. His wife, Elizabeth, died January 22, 
1866, aged seventy-three years. They had three sons and four daughters : William A., 
Eliza, John, Hannah, Margaret, Mary Catharine, Susannah and Jacob Menzo, of whom 
Jacob M. is the only one now living. Andrew W. was a soldier in the war of 1812, 
and was a Whig and a Republican. Jacob M. married, February 20, 1856, Gertrude 
M., daughter of Philip C. and Catharine ( Zimmerman ) Bellinger, and they had six 
children: John A.; Emma, who died aged thirteen years; Mary Catharine, wife of 
Raymond Carson ; Willis P., Charles M., and Walter J. Mr. and Mrs. Bellinger are 
members of the Reformed church of Currytown. Charles M. Bellinger, third son of 
Jacob M. and Gertrude M. Bellinger, was born May 1, 1869, and is the only one of the 
children living at home with his parents. At the age of seventeen he became a mem- 
ber of the Reformed church, of which he is now a deacon, having served two years. 
The farm, consisting of about 150 acres, is one of the best in the county, having been 
the home of his great-grandfather, grandfather and father, and will also belong to him. 
After attaining a good district school education, he became a student at the State Nor- 
mal school at Albany for one year, 1888-89, and after completing two terms of teach- 
ing ( the latter term being in a commercial school at Albany ) he was on account of the 
illness of his father, called home, where he has since remained. 

Ozmun, I. Davis, M. D., Canajoharie, was born in South Lansing July G, 1856, was 
educated at the Ithaca Academy and the Cortland Normal school, and graduated at the 
Syracuse Medical College. He began practice in Canajoharie in October. 1888, and 
makes a specialty of the eye, ear, nose and throat, though having also a general medi- 
cal practice. 

Smith, John Garret, Mindeu, was born in Root, Montgomery county, September 1, 
1837, and is the third son in a family of four children of Noah and Ida ( Lenderson ) 
Smith. Ilis education was limited to the district schools of his native town. At the 
age of fourteen years he was apprenticed to John D. Burke of Fort Plain, to learn the 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 211 

carriage-maker's trade. He was employed by Mr. Burke until 1873, when lie com- 
menced the manufacture of carriages himself. In 188G he formed a partnership with 
Henry Rebell, the firm being Smith & Rebell. The firm manufactures a general line 
of wagons, carriages and sleighs, and employs from seven to ten men. Mr. Smith in 
politics is a Republican. He married Mary, daughter of tha late Jonas Nestle of Fort 
Plain. 

Moyer, Jacob, Minden, married Elizabeth Walrath, and had the follownig children : 
Jacob, Peter, Henry, Nicholas, Mary, who married Abraham Zoller ; and Elizabeth, 
who married Jacob Moyer. Peter (mentioned above) married Nancy, daughter of 
Jacob Devendorf. Their children were David ; Polly, who married Peter Elwood, 
and died in Minden ; Jonas, died at Hammond; Elizabeth, married Cornelius Cronk- 
hite, and died in Minden ; Nancy, died single; and Catharine, widow of Josiah Zoller, 
lives at Fort Plain, Peter died in 18.55, aged fifty-two years. David, son of Peter, 
was born in Minden, May 12, 1801, and married May 1, 1825, Lany, daughter of Solo- 
mon Devendorf. She was born May 27, 1803. Their children were as follows: first, 
Daniel, born April 13, 1826, and resides at Lysander; he married Minerva Abeel, and 
has four children: William A., Dewitt, Augusta and Martha; second, Henry, born 
October 13, 1827, resides at Bush Creek, Fayette county Iowa ; he married Caroline 
Zoller, and has three children: Emma, Jennie and Dwight; third, Peter B,, born in 
Danube, July 17, 1833, married for his first wife, Helen, daughter of John Zoller of 
Minden. Their children were Myron, born August 29, 1858, and Clara, born Novem- 
ber 5, 1859, wife of Nathaniel Bleekman of Oneida ; he married second, Rosie, 
daughter of David Walts. Peter B. became a resident of Minden in 1862, and has 
been engaged in farming except from 1876 to 1880, when he operated the Red Mill at 
Fort Plain. Fourth, Lydia, born July 3, 1837, died in childhood; fifth, David, born in 
Danube, December 2, 1838, married March 15, 1871, Matilda, daughter of Daniel 
Failing of St. Johnsville; she was born in that town December 2, 1848. They have 
two adopted daughters: Katie, wife of Jacob Alter of Danube, and Louisa. David 
has been a resident of Minden since 1873 and has always been engaged in farming; 
and sixth, Seward, born February 1, 1851, resides in Fort Plain. David removed from 
Minden to Danube and engaged in farming. He died there September 5, 1869, and 
his wife July 29, 1869. 

Veeder. — Johannes Veeder, father of Simon, came from Holland, and owned 1,000 
acres of land near Fonda. Simon Veeder was born on the farm and married Margaret 
Terwillager, by whom he had two daughters and six sons; he died in 1843, and his 
wife died in 1832. Volkert, his son, was born in 1776 and married Alida Fonda, by 
whom he had eight children. Asenath, his youngest child and only survivor of the 
family, is of the fifth generation, and has her sister's grand-daughter, Katie V. Smith, 
living with her, who is of the seventh generation, this farm having been in possession 
of the Veeder family for 200 years. 

The Hartley Family. — This family is one of great antiquity in England. In the 
county of York, as well as in Dorset, Berkshire and Cumberland, are several distin- 
guished families of this name, each claiming a common origin in the Hartleys of Chor- 



212 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ton in Lancashire, and having essentially the same insignia and motto, " Vive ut 
Vivas." There is to the present generation a line of descent direct from Sir John 
Hartley, knighted by Charles I. in 1623. The family was variously distinguished in 
England for moral and intellectual vigor, numbering among its members Dr. David 
Hartley, the metaphysician, the Vicar of Armley, an eminent divine, and David Hart- 
ley, statesman, who as representative of the English crown, concluded the definitive 
treaty of peace between Great Britian and the United States at the close of the revolu- 
tionary war. Robert Hartley, grandson of the Vicar of Armley, married Martha 
Smithson, who was very closely related to James Smithson, who founded the Smith- 
sonian Institution at Washington. Isaac Hartley, son of Robert, was a woolen manu- 
facturer at Cockermouth.. England, and married Isabella Johnson, removing to Charl- 
ton, Saratoga county, in 1798. In early life he was the companion, schoolmate and 
townsman of the poet Wordsworth. Isaac and Isabella had five children : Martha, 
born in 1789, married Alexander Fergu.son of Charlton, and died in 1856; Isabella, 
born in 1792, died in 1875; Robert M., born in 1796; Mary, born in 1802. died in 1873. 
She married John Barlow of Florida ; Isaac, born in 1804, married Sarah Barlow, and 
died in 1880. Robert M. was educated at Fairfield Academy with a view to the min- 
istry, but owing to impaired health he settled in New York in 1820, where he entered 
the drygoods business. He soon became closely connected with the church and phil- 
anthropic work, and mainly through his energy was founded the New York Temper- 
ance Society, the Association for the Improvement of the Poor, Juvenile Asylum, 
Workingman's Home, Society for the Relief of the Ruptured and Crippled. In 1824 
he married Catharine, daughter of Reuben Munson. Their children are: Mrs. Isabella 
H. Sherwood, born in 1826, living at Bristol, Pa, ; Marcellus, born in 1827, of the firm 
of Hartley & Graham, New York; Joseph W., born in 1829, now secretary of the 
United States Electric Light Company of New York ; Mrs. Mary H. Brown, born in 
1833, died in New York in 1885; Rev, Isaac S. Hartley, born- in 1830, now of Great 
Barrington; Reuben M.,born in 1832, of Florida; Mrs. F. B. Wightman, born in 1836, 
of New York ; Mrs. J. H. Cowdrey, born in 1S40, of Edgewater, N. J. ; and Mrs. 
John L. Brower, born in 1843, of New York. After a long life, full of usefulness, Mr, 
Hartley died in New York March 3, 1881, in the eighty-si.xth year of his age. His 
wife died December 7, 1873, aged sisty-nine years. Reuben M. Hartley came to 
Florida in 1849. In 1856 he purchased the farm where he now resides, and is one 
of the prominent and influential men of the town. In 1858 he married Jane, 
youngest daughter of the late Garret B. Van Derveer. They have three children : 
Mrs. Horace Walrath, residing at Minaville, born in 1859: Robert M.. born in 1862; 
G. Van Derveer, born in 1864, married in 1888 Clara, eldest daughter of David P. 
Luke of Scotch Bush. They have two children, Abbie, born in 1889. and Myra, born 
in 1892. He lives on the adjoining farm, purchased by him in 1887. Robert M., the 
oldest son, was educated in the district schools and a three years course at the Amster- 
dam Academy. He is a close student of history — especially of the Mohawk Valley 
and of the Indians. He is a member of the Mohawk Valley Historical Society, an 
earnest Republican in politics. In February, 1892, he was elected supervisor of the 
town of Florida, and is active in the interests of his town and county. He is also a 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 213 

member of Tienonderoga Tribe 176 Improved Order of Red Men of Miuaville. Re is 
unmarried, and lives on the old homestead. A century ago the farm now occupied by 
Mr. Hartley was something of a business center, there being a grist-mill, potash 
works and store, of which not the slightest trace remains. 

Bixby, Hiram, St. Johnsville, was born in Saratoga county April 23, 1807, and is a 
son of Joshua and Sallie (Tourtellot) Bixby of Rhode Island and Connecticut, respec- 
tively. Joshua was born April 6, 1768, and his wife September 19, 1775; they came 
to Saratoga county in 1796; he died March 3, 1860, and his wife August 23, ISSG- 
They were the parents of five sons and five daughters. Hiram Bixby came in 1830 to 
St. Johnsville and worked as a mason and at stave making. In 1837 he bought an 
acre of land, on which he has since resided ; he owns, also, two lots which he secured 
on a mortgage, and has other means, all earned hy days' work. In politics he is a 
Democrat, and cast his first vote for Jacksson. He married, October 22, 1835, Dorothy, 
daughter of Joseph I. and Mary (Rouse) Klock. They have no children of their own 
but have brought up two of his brother's children : Alphonso (deceased), and Sally, 
who died at the age of seventeen. 

Dorn, John A., Florida, the fourth of seven children of Amos H. and Susan Ann 
(Radley) Dorn, was born in Florida on the old Radley homestead, where he now lives 
November 24, 1843. Amos H., his father, was born in Berkshire county, Mass.; his 
mother, Susan Ann (Radley) Dorn, having been born in the Radley homestead. Her 
father, John P. Radley, was also born on the same spot, April 17, 1792. The grand- 
father, Philip Radley. was born October 9, 17G5. in Bethlehem, Albany county. He 
settled in Florida upon the farm now occupied by John A., in the year 1791, the deed 
being in possession of the family. John A. married. June 18, 1873, Sarah L., daughter 
of Elijah and Ruth Rockwell of Duanesburg. They have two children : Ruth Annah, 
and John A. Among the family belongings is a remarkable Dutch Bible, weighing six- 
teen pounds, which was printed in Amsterdam in the year 1702, also an ancient English 
watch belonging to Mr. Davis's great-grandfather, which our subject now owns. 

Seeber, William H., Cansjoharie, Fort Plain p. o., was born on the farm of his present 
residence in Canajoharie November 6, 1826, a son of William and Nancy (Failing) 
Seeber. The great-grandfather of our subject came to this country from Germany and 
located in this county ; the first trace we have of the famih' direct was the purchase of 
this farm by William Seeber during the revolution. The road past the farm was laid 
out as a turnpike from Canajoharie to Cherry Valley, but »t the time of the purchase 
was a foot path for the tories and Indians. William Seeber was the father of seven 
children ; one of tliem, Henry, grandfather of our subject, was born December 13, 1769. 
He was the father of two children : Margaret, who married John Tordon, and William 
H., the father of our subject, who was born May 29, 1791, and married Elizabeth Fail- 
ing Aprils, 1812. They were the parents of four children : Henry, Abraham, Catherine, 
and Josiah. Mrs. Seeber died April 5, 1820. His second wife was a sister of the first, 
Nancy Failing, married in January, 1821, and they were the parents of three children : 
Eliza, Margaret, and William H., our subject. He has two sisters and a half-brother 
living. William now lives on the old homestead farm that has been in the posses.'-ion 



214 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

of the Seeber family for over 125 years. He married Catherine Mount of Glen Febru- 
ary 6, 1856, and they have two children : Clarence M., born March 14, 1857, and Charles- 
J., born January 11, 1864. Mr. Seeber is not an active politician, and is content to 
let others govern, but is known as a good farmer and an honest upright citizen. 
William H., his father, died February 26, 1881. His mother died April 19, 1876, on her 
ninety-second birthday. 

Van Derveer, Thomas, J., Root, was born on the farm adjoining his present residence 
August 26, 1830, a son of Joseph and Harriet (Allen) Van Derveer. His father's father 
was Garrett Van Derveer, who came from Monmouth county, N. J., and was a pioneer 
of Charleston, where he followed farming and shoemaking. He was an active Presby- 
terian. He moved to and died near Rural Grove. His wife was Rachel Covenhoven, 
daughter of Peter Covenhoven, on whose farm the battle of Monmouth was fought. 
He was an early pioneer of Montgomery county. Garrett Van Derveer reared 
eight sons and two daughters, of whom Joseph was the fifth son. He was born 
in Charleston March 23, 1802, served in the various town offices as a Democrat, and 
was overseer of the county poor for three years. He was also an extensive farmer in 
Root. He died in March, 1S77, and his wife in April, 1879. They had five children, 
one of whom died. They were Mary A., Shibley, Thomas J., Amanda Lyker, and Ruth 
E. Mallett. Thomas J. was reared on the farm and educated in the district schools and 
the Collegiate Institute at Marion, Wayne county. He taught school nine consecutive, 
years, eight in hi=i own district. He remained with his father during his life, and the 
homestead fell to him. In 1885 he sold out and located where he is now in 1887, on a 
farm of 147 acres. He was one of the' organizers and a director of the Root cheese 
factory, and is also a director of the Fulton and Montgomery Insurance Co. He has 
served as justice eight years, and held various minor offices, having been active in poli- 
tics. He is a breeder of Shropshire sheep and Jersey cattle. November 29, 1857, he 
married Caroline, daughter of Ezra and Emily (Corbin) Hoag, natives of Root and 
Charleston, the former born October 1, 1797, and the latter January 21, 1800. They 
were Quakers, the father a son of Nathaniel Hoag, a pioneer and successful farmer of 
Root. Thomas J. and wife have two children : Joseph E. and Maxalynn. Mr. and 
Mrs. Van Derveer have been members of the Christian church forty years. 

Christman, George H., St. Johnsville, was born in Ephratah April 10, 1843, a son of 
Peter and Mary (Sponable) Christman, and grandson of Jacob N. Christman. The latter 
was born m Schoharie county and died about 1879, aged eighty-four years ; his wife was 
Maria Van Valkenburg, who bore him ten children : Peter Christman was born June 9, 
1810, in Schoharie county and was raised in Fulton county. He had four children : 
Lena, George H., Nathan, and Eli. George H. Christman was raised on a farm and 
educated at the common school. At the age of twenty-seven he began lumbering which 
he followed for three years, and then engaged in farming. In 1880 he bought and 
settled on 200 acres in St. Johnsville ; he has been engaged in the manufacture of cheese. 
He is an active Democrat and has held town offices ; he is also a Knight of Pythias. 
He married, February 19, 1873, Margaret, daughter of Augustus and Margaret (Bellinger) 
Smith, and they have four children : J. Ettie, Clarence A., Smith, and Edward. Mrs. 
Christman is a Lutheran. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. • 215 

Sne.ll, Orville (deceased), was born in Minden in 1845, and was a son of John A. and 
Mary (Failing) Snell. He was reared on a faroa and in 1862 enlisted in Company B, 
One Hundred Fifteenth N. T. Volunteers, was taken prisoner at Deep Bottom August 
16, 186-1, and was confined at Salisbury until March, 1865, when he was liberated be- 
reft of his reason from starvation. On his return he was so emaciated and reduced that 
his own friends did not know him. After the war he engaged in farming, but sold his 
farm after a time and removed to the village of St. Johnsville, where he died July 15, 
1877, from disabilities arising from his service in the array. He married, June 18, 1873, 
Elizabeth, daughter of Josiah and Catherine (Timmerman) March, who was born in 
Minden in 1850. Her grandfather was Peter March, a native of Minden, whose father, 
John March, was a pioneer of Minden. The subject has three children, but one of whom 
is living: John A., a graduate of the high school and of Eastman's Business College, 
Poughkepsie. 

Howard, Charles Louis, Florida, one of four children of Ebenezer and Ellen (Crane) 
Howard, was born at Empire Lock, Fort Hunter, October 11, 1859. The other children 
were Frank and Addie, who died in childhood, and George A., who died at Hot Springs, 
Ark , April 30, 1891. Ebenezer Howard, the father, was born at Duanesburg January 
1, 1827, and was a son of Samuel (born July 13, 1795, and died March 9, 1857) and 
Marilla (Hatch) Howard (born January 27, 1798, died February 25, 1869). The great- 
grandfather was John Howard, who lived and died in Duanesburg. The mother, Ellen 
(Crane) Howard, was born at Newburgh May 16, 1832, and died at Fort Hunter, Feb- 
ruary 11, 1892. Charles Louis Howard married, June 9, 1880, Kittle H., daughter of A. 
H. Burtch of Fonda, she being a graduate of the Elmira Female College. Their chil'dren 
are as follows : Harry, Helen, Mabel, and Ruth. Mr. Howard was educated at Johns- 
town Union School and Amsterdam Academy. In August, 1880, he engaged in the 
broom business with his father, brother and cousin. This industry was started in 1859 
by E. Howard and John D. Blood, and was continued until 1869, when Mr. Blood sold 
out his interest and removed to Amsterdam. Mr. Howard enlarged and continued the 
business until 1873, when the factory was totally destroyed by fire. Mr. Howard at 
once rebuilt and equipped the present brick factory, and later associated with him his 
sons and his nephew. By the death of E. Howard and his .son, George A., and the 
withdrawal from the firm of Avery Howard, the business is now conducted solely by 
C. L. Howard under the firm of B. Howard & Sons. The mill is equipped with modern 
improvements, including electric light, and has an average capacity of 200 dozen per day, 
which during the busy season is increased from fifty to ninety dozen above that. There 
are about seventy-five men constantly employed, and the product is second to none. 
Ebenezer Howard was one of the active members of the Broom Manufacturers' Asso- 
ciation. He was a director in the Farmers' National Bank of Amsterdam, and Fort 
Hunter Suspension Bridge and was one of the most valued members of the community. 

Horn, Fridolin, St. Johnsville, a son of Adam and Gertrude (Zay) Horn, was born 
at Fort Plain November 27, 1851. He received a common school education and has 
been in business with his brother in the mill. He married Mary, daughter of John and 
Elizabeth (Bright) Miller. Mr. Miller was born in Germany March 25, 1820, and died 
in Thompsonville, Conn., September 3, 1869 ; he was a baker by trade. His wife was 



216 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

born in Utiea, and was a daughter of William and Susan (Reed) Bright, who were born 
in England and Glasgow, Scotland, respectively; they had three children : John, Susan 
(deceased), and Mary. Fridolin Horn and wife have five children : Myra E., Inez B., 
Fridolin M., Adam J. and Carletou J. 

De Graff, Garrett H., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam on the farm 
where he now lives January 20, 1S31, a son of John G. and Hester (De Graffs De Graff. 
John G., father of our subject, was born in ISOS on the old homestead where Garrett 
now lives, and his ancestors were among the earliest settlers of this town. Garrett was 
educated in the public schools of this town and at the age of seventeen he went on the 
farm to assist his father until he was twenty-seven years old. April 15, 1852, he 
married Mary A. Seaman of Amsterdam, daughter of James Seaman, who is remembered 
as one of the most prominent Democrats of the town. In 1S5~ Garrett left the fsirra to 
try railroading, which he followed fifteen years, being foreman of construction ten 
years. He lived two years on a farm in Saratoga county, in 1874 he came back to the 
old homestead where he intends to remain the balance of his life. Mr. De Graff has 
had seven children, four of whom are now living: Edward, born October 15, 1S51, re- 
sides in Michigan: Hester, born August 14, 1853, died June 17, 1881; Byron, born 
April 4, 1861; Alice, born March 27, 1862, died June 5, 1876; Ida, born March 7, 1864, 
now Mrs. Burnside, of Amsterdam ; Mansfield, born July 17, 1867 ; and Josephine, 
born September 22, 1870, died May 19, 1878. Mr. De Graff has been a successful farm- 
er. He is prominent in politics and in 1892 was the only candidate elected on his 
ticket. 

Reid, Myron W.. Amsterdam, w.is born in Amsterdam October 22. 1845, and was 
educated in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. After completion of his edu- 
cation he became deputy postmaster; afterwards clerk in the freigiit oflice of the N. Y. 
C. & H. R. R. R. He next took a course in the commercial college in Rochester, and 
upon his return accepted a position with John Young & Son until 1869. In the year 
following he opened a drug store in company with Middleton Warnick (now of the 
Green Knitting Co.) under the firm of Warnick & Reid. Mr. Warnick retired from 
the business in December, 1881, and Mr. Reid has since conducted the business in his 
own name. Mr. Reid was man.iger of the Western Union Telegraph Co. for twelve 
years. June 17, 1869, he married Sarah, second, daughter of Ephraim and Altana D 
Kellog. formerly of Burtonville. They have one son who is assisting his father in the 
drug store. Mr. Reid is a member of Artisan Lodge No. 84 F. & A. M. of Amsterdam 
Chapter No. 81 R. A. M., and several other societies. 

Swart, Isaac W., Amsterdam, Cranesville p. o., was born on the same farm that he 
now lives on June 28, 1804, a son of William and Maria ( Vedder ) Swart. William, 
his father, born in 1767, was a son of Jeremiah Swart, who came from Holland pre- 
vious to 1740 and settled on the banks of the Mohawk. He was the father of eight 
children, five sons and three daughters. The five boys were among the earliest settlers 
of this section; three of them locating on the south side — Josiah, Walter and Benja- 
min ; the other two on the north (or in Amsterdam) were John and William. Their 
grandfather was named Vedder, and he lived in the old fort above Amsterdam known 



FAillLY SKETCHES 217 

as Fort Johnson. At one tirnt- lie was captnred liy the Indians and taken to their eanip 
Jibout a day's travel from the fort: Imt he had a friend in their camp; he had befriended 
an Indian chief at one time, and jifter the rest of the party were asleep he liberated 
Mr. Vedder, who arrived home at Fort Johnson the next morning-. William, the father 
of our subject, bonght with his farm an old n)ill from Lewis Groat, and on the same 
site, in 1807, he binlt another mill which still stands. Tlie early life of Isaac was spent 
at home ; he attended the public school and received a good business education. At the 
age of twenty-eight he married Margaret Vedder, daughter of Harmon Vedder of 
Florida. Two years after he built a house where he now lives. In 1855, when the 
New York Central was being liuilt, he made a hotel of his home and conducted it as 
euch for seventeen years. Mrs. Swart died April !(!, 18G9 ; their fourchildren had died 
before that time. December 11, 1872, he married Anna E. Weast of Schenectady 
county, and they have one child, Ada, born July 24, 1874. A history could be written 
of this family, as they are numerous and prosperous, and can trace their ancestry back 
to the earliest history of our country. Mr. Swart remembers the war of 1812 and the 
large number of soldiers who inarched by his father's home up the Mohawk valley. He 
is quite strong and healthy, lias alway been secluded but very inlluential in the town. 
At one time he conducted a large broom mill, furnishing the New Vork Central com- 
pany. 

Hewitt, Daniel C, Amsterdam, Rockton p. o., was born in Philadelphia January 27, 
1834, and is a son of Ira and Eliza (Warner) Hewitt. Ira, father of our subject, was 
a native of this country, but his grandfather came from Sweden, while the ancestry of 
Eliza (Warner) Hewitt is English. The name originally was spelled " Huewitt," but 
time has modified it to its present form. In 1841 tie parents of our subject came to 
this county and located at Manny's Corners, where Daniel was sent to the public school. 
They remained here but two years, when they moved to Fort Johnson, leaving there 
in 1844 to go to Amsterdam. Mr. Hewitt conducted a bakery where the city post- 
office now stands, for one year, and then they came to Rockton where Daniel finished 
his education and where he has since lived. When Daniel was twenty-one he joined 
his brother, Henry H., and leased a stone quarry of Marcus Clizbe, and continued with 
this until 1864. In 1863 he sufi'ered the misfortune of losing all his hard-earned sav- 
ings. He enlisted in 1864 in the U. S. navy and saw service at both battles at Fort 
Fisher, and was in the blockade service on the coast of North Carolina. ' He returned 
in 1865, and tliat fall he joined his brother Nias and started a lime and stone business 
in connection with their quarry and cut stone. He has been twice married ; his first 
marriage was January 5, 1860, to Mary L. Dickson of Amsterdam, who died in the 
following December; his second marriage was October 23. 1867, to Jane S. Gillies of 
Amsterdam, a daughter of John S. Gillies, a merchant of Rockton. They are the pa- 
rents of nine children, six of whom are living: Horace G., born July 21, 1868; Jennie 
M., born May 4, 1872; Daniel C, jr., born August 5, 1874; Nias, born December 17, 
1879; Agnes L., born September 9, 1883; Henrietta E., born July 3, 1887. Mr. Hewitt 
has, next to Divine Providence, only himself to thank for his prosperity, as what he has 
he made himself by hard work and good management. He assisted his son on the 1st 



•218 HISTORY OF ilOXTGOMEET CO^^■TT. 

of January. 1892. to start s general store in Bockton, which is ran under the firm of D. 
C. Hewitt <t Son, and is a very successful establishment. 

Van Wie, Daniel G., Palatine, was born in Palatine January 23, 1S43, and is a son 
of George and Maria ('Wohlgemuth) Tan Wie. His father was born here September 
3. 1S14. and had but one child. Daniel G. The early life of the latter was spent in Can- 
ajoharie, and when he was six years old his parents returned to Palatine, where he was 
educated in the common schools and assisted his father on the farm until he was twen- 
ty-eight when he assumed control and has since successfully conducted it. In 1SS7 Jlr. 
Tan Wie bought the farm now occupied by his son, consisting of 110 acres, and 
in ISSS, he, in company with his father-in-law, bought the James R. Tan Evera 
place in Canajoharie, consisting of ITS acres, which m addition to the homstead of 135 
acres, makes him one of the largest land owners of this section. In 1S64 Mr. Tan Wie 
married Margaret L.. daughter of Peter B. Snell of Palatine, and they have four chil- 
dren : George D., a farmer in Palatine ; Alice M., wife of Elmer Gramps of Palatine ; 
Earl P. and Ererett S. Mr. Tan Wie has taken an active interest in the politics of his 
town, and was supervisor in 1S85. being re-elected in 1886-87, during the last session 
being on the board of equalization, he saved the town some $S00 in taxes. He is the 
present assessor of the town. He is a director of the Farmers" Insurance company of 
the town of Palatine, member of Hamilton Lodge No. 79. F. & A. M.: Palatine TTnion 
Lodge (Grange), and secretary of the order. Mr. and Mrs. Tan Wie. daughter and 
one son. are members of the Reformed church of Canajoharie. 

Gray. Charles S.. Palatine, was born in Palatine in 1856. He is a son of Sidney Gray, 
a son of Andrew S. Gray, a son of Samuel Gray, who came from Ireland and settled 
in Palatine. Andrew S. Gray was born in Palatine and was a farmer. He luarried EUz- 
abeth Phillips, who bore him four sons and two daughters. He was a member of As- 
sembly, and he and his family were members of the Reformed church. He died in 1856. 
Sidney Gray was born in 1820 in Palatine, was a farmer, and married Annie ( Christ- 
man ) Xellis, and had four sons and one daughter. He and his wife were members of 
the Reformed church. He died in 18S2. Charles S. Gray was raised on a farm, and 
married in 1873. Almira. daughter of Richard Gilman of Palatine. She died in 1883. 
and in 1S86 he married E.«ieila M.. daughter of Jeremiah and Catherine (Snell) Strayer 
of Palatine. Mr. Strayer and wife had three daughters and one son. The children of 
Charles S. Gray are : Ella, Clarence and Lavere. all living. Mr. Gray has always been 
a farmer and is a member of Stone Arabia Grange No. 690, and of the Reformed 
church at Stone Arabia. 

DiUenback. John. Palatine, was born in Palatine December 25, 1840. and is a son of 
Andrew A. DiUenback, whose father was Andrew DiUenback. Andrew A. was born in 
Palatine September IS, 1800, reared on a farm, and married Margaret Neahr. who bore 
him four sons and four daughters. He was a farmer, a Democrat, and held several 
town offices ; he and his wife were Lutherans. He died January 6, 1861, and his wife 
December 14. 1874. John DiUenback, in 1872, married Eliza, daughter of John and 
Catherine (DiUenback) Nestle. They have two children: Martha E.. born June 11, 
1873: and Albert N.. born September 22. 1874. Mr. DiUenback has been inspector of 



FAMILY SKETCHES. "il* 

elections several times, and he and liis wife are members of the Lutheran church at 
Stone Arabia. 

Rice, Jonas, Palatine, was born in Danube, Herkimer county, September 10, 1835, 
a son of Jonas Rice, whose father was John Rice, a native of Danube where he lived 
and died. He raised four sons and three daughters. Jonas Rice, senior, was born in 
1801. He was a highway commissioner, captain in the militia, and was in the war of 
1812. He married Eva Klock of Montgomery county, who bore him four sons and 
four daughters. He and his wife were members of the Lutheran church. Jonas Rice, 
the subject, was raised on a farm and attended the common school. He married Cath- 
erine Brewer of Palatine, born May 23, 1848, She is a daughter of Frederick and Han- 
nah (XelHs) Brower, who had two children. The father of Frederick was Herman, 
whose father was Herman, a son of William, a native of Holland, who came to America 
about 1700 and settled in Palatine, The land on which he .settled is now owned by the 
fifth generation, William Brower married Rebecca Tedder, who bore him four sons 
and four daughters, the first child being born in 1713. Herman, father of Frederick, 
was born in 1768 and died in 1S74. His -wife was Magdaline Doxtater, born in 1778, 
and died in 1851. They have had five sons and eight daughters, and were members of 
the Reformed church, Frederick Brower was born April 22, 1818, and married Han- 
nah Nelli.s, October 27. 1843. She was a daughter of Peter and Hannah (Doxtater) 
Nellis, parents of five sons and eight daughters, all but three of whom are living, Mr. 
and Mrs. Jonas Rice have the following children : Annie E., Cora, Gertrude W, (de- 
ceased), Libbie, Fred J., Kittie, Leslie H, Mr, Rice has always been a farmer ; he and 
his wife are members of the Lutheran church at Stone Arabia. 

Showerman, Menzo. Palatine, was born in Palatine. July 19, 1852, a son of Henry 
Showerman, also a native of Palatine, The latter was educated at the common school 
and for fifteen years followed coopering (his father being a cooper and shoemaker), and 
since has been engaged at farming. He married Annie, daughter of Joshua Dillenback, 
of Palatine, and had four sons and one daughter. They now reside with Menzo. and 
are members of the East Palatine Reformed church. Menzo Showerman was raised on 
a farm and attended the common school ; in 1873 be mairied Caroline, daughter of 
Conrad Loucks. Their children are Annie L., Bertha M., and Earl H„ all of whom are 
living. Mr, and Mrs. Loucks are members of the East Palatine Reformed church. 

Spraker, Frasier, Palatine Bridge, was born at Palatine Bridge, September 9, 1825, 
a son of Livingston and Sarah (Leonard) Spraker. Livingston, who was the fourth son 
of Jost Spraker, was born in July, 1803, and early in life became a conspicuous figure 
in public aflfairs. He was several times supervisor of the town and was at one time 
sheritf of the county : was also one of the original founders, and a director of the 
National Spraker Bank of Canajoharie. and also the National Mohawk River Bank of 
Fonda. He was one of the original subscribers to the old Fort Plain Bank and was at 
one time vice-president of that institution. He was also a stockholder in both the 
Herkimer County and Montgomery County Banks. He was a director and for a num- 
ber of years a member of the board of auditors of the Utica and Schenectady railroad, 
which subsequently became the N. T. C. RR., in which he was director and also audi- 



•220 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERT COUNTY. 

tor. He was one of the founders of the Wagner Palace Car Company, and was a dele- 
gate from this district to the Democratic National Convention of 1864. He was one of 
the leading Democrats of Montgomery county during his whole lifetime. He married 
Sarah Leonard of ilassacbusetts, and they had seven children who reached maturity, 
two dying in infancy. Frasier, the subject of our sketch, is the only one now living. 
He received his education at Union College, graduating in the class of 1S50 at the age 
of twenty- five. He commenced the reading of law and was at the same time a deputy 
sherifl". He was admitted to practice at the bar in 1852 at Ballston Spa. before Judge 
Cady and Judge Page. He continued practice in this profession until about lS7l', and 
during this time was a director of the National Mohawk River Bank and the National 
Spraker Bank. He was a member of the discount committee and also of the vaults 
committee of each bank, and still holds the same positions. He is now president of 
the National Spraker Bank of Canajoharie, to which he was elected in September, 
1880. In politics he is a Democrat. He married in 1854, Catharine Fredenburgh, 
whose ancestors were among the early settlers of Columbia county. They have four 
children : Benjamin F., a lawyer of Canajoharie ; Sarah V., wife of Lawyer W. G. 
Cook of Brooklyn ; Helena E. . and Anna T. P. Mr. Spraker is a member of Hamilton 
Lodge F. & A. M., and a strong supporter of St. Mark's Lutheran church of Canajo- 
harie, of which he has been one of the trustees for a number of years. 

Wagner, Oliver 6., Palatine (deceased), was born in Palatine. He was reared on a 
farm and received a common school education. He married Mary E. Snvder. a native 
of Palatine, and daughter of Jacob and Dolly (Fox) Snyder, who reared two sons 
and one daughter. Mr. Snyder was a shoemaker and at his death owned a farm. 
Jacob's father (Ludwig) was an early settler of Montgomery county : he and his wife 
both died in St. Lawrence county. Jacob Snyder and wife were members of the Re- 
formed church at Fort Plain. He died in Palatine in 1838 and his wife in 1890. Oli- 
ver C. Wagner and wife had two daughters, Ida and Carrie ; there is also an adopted 
son, Frank A. Mr. Wagner died April 25, 1892. 

Leip, John. Palatine, was born in Berlin, Germany. His parents were Jacob and 
Margaret Leip, who raised three sons and two daughte;s. Jacob was a farmer, and is 
still living at the age of eighty-two year,-;, .-ind wife at eighty-one. John Leip was raised 
on a farm and received a good education in Germany. He was eighteen vears of age 
when he came to Palatine — a poor boy without friends, and was obliged to sleep with- 
out shelter for several nights. For ten years he worked on a farm, and for sixteen 
years he was in the employ of the N. T. C. RR. He has become a well-to-do resident 
of Nelliston. He married, first in 1855, Catherine Newman, of Germany. She died 
childless in 1884, and in 1885 he married second. Delia, daughter of Christian and Dor- 
othy (Berghart) Newman of Palatine. They have tliree sons : John, Lewis and Charles. 
Mr. Leip has been president of Nelliston and also trustee. He and his wife are mem- 
bers of the Lutheran church at Fort Plain. 

Cranker, John, Palatine, was born in Palatine February 18, 1845. His father was 
John Cranker, a native of Mohawk and a farmer, who married Miss Peelei. a native of 
Palatine, by whom he had two sons and three daughters ; one son died in infancy. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 221 

Mr. Cranker was a Mason, and died in 1S55 ; his wife survives him. After the death 
of his father, John, jr., followed farming until eighteen years of age, when he and his 
brother-in-law engaged in trucking in Fort Plain ; they also run a lime kiln and stone 
quarry for a number of years. In 1890 he bought the American House in Nelliston 
and has since conducted it. He has been president of the village one year and alder- 
man two years. He enlisted in 1864 in the 192d New York Volunteers and served 
until the close of the war. At the age of twenty-four he married Elizabeth Beck, a 
native of Albany ; their children are Flora, Charles, Elsie and Dora, all hving in Pala- 
tine. 

Shaper, Henry A., Palatine, was born in Canajoharie September 7, 1857, a son of 
Augustus and Sophia (Shineman) Shaper. Augustus, the father of Henry A., was 
was born in Germany, coming to this country with his parents when only tln-ee years 
old. They located in Canajoharie and when he reached manhood, after receiving a 
common school education, he engaged with his brother in the stone cutter's trade, which 
he has smce followed, with the exception of six years spent on a farm. He has had 
five children, four of whom survive : Ida, a school teacher of Canajoharie ; William 
C, a superintendent of a quarry of the Mohawk Valley Stone Company ; Lena, who 
lives at home : and Henry A. The life of the latter has been spent in this town : he 
was educated in the Canajoharie Academy, and at the age of twenty he went in with 
his father to learn the stone cutter's trade, which he followed until 1888, when he went 
into partnership with William N. Johnson, as proprietors of the stone quarries in Pala- 
tine. He is now general manager of the Mohawk Valley Stone Company. He was 
married April 29, 1883, to Margaret E. Burns of St. Paul, Minn., and they have seven 
children: Edward, Irving, Lena, Howard, Henry, Bernard and Margaret. Mr. 
Shaper is one of the leading men of the village, of which be now holds the ofiBce of 
trustee. He is also the sachem of the I. 0. of R. M., and treasurer of the Royal 
Arcanum; a member of Hamilton Lodge No. 79, F. & A. M., and a member of the 
German Lutheran church of Canajoharie. 

Empie, Clark, Palatine, was born in Palatine June 26, 18o3. His father was Joshua 
Empie ; his grandfather, John Empie; and his great-grandfather John F. Empie of 
revolutionary fame, who settled in Ephratah, near where Clark Empie now lives, and 
where he lived and died. John Empie was born in Ephratah, married Nancy, daughter 
of George Getman, and had eight children, three of whom survive. He was a farmer, 
and died in Ephratah December 12. 186J, aged sixty-three; his wife also died there. 
Joshua Empie was bom in Ephratah November 9, 1814, and married. July 19, 1838, 
Eliza (born January 10, 1818), daughter of John E. and Nancy (Snell) Gramps, who 
bore him four sons. He was a farmer, held many town offices, and with his family 
was identified with the Dutch Reformed church. Clark Empie was raised on the farm 
and educated at the common school. August 15, 1885, he married Lizzie I., daughter 
of Edward and Artemisia Gray, and a native of Oppenheim. They have two cbildren , 
Ruby J. and Alton. Mr. Empie is a Republican. 

Saltsman, Romain, Palatine, was born in Palatine May 25, 1857. His parents were 
Jacob H. and Nancy M. Saltsman. He was brought up a farmer and was educated in the 



222 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

common schools and Fort Plain Seminary. October 5, 1881, he married Mary E., 
daughter of John and Eleanor (Van Vost) Empie of Ephratah. They have three 
children : Laura A., Lloyd J. and Warren D. When seventeen years of age Mr. 
Saltsman began teaching school, following it for ten years. He belongs to Fort Plaiu 
Lodge No. 66, K. of P., and Stone Arabia Grange No. 690, of which he has been 
secretary since its organization. He is an active Republican, and has been supervisor 
of elections. He and family are faithful supporters of the Lutheran church at Stone 
Arabia. Jacob H. Saltsman, father of Romain, was born in Palatine December 29, 
1825. a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Lipe) Saltsman. He was raised a farmer and edu- 
cated at the common school. In 185'2 he married Nancy M., daughter of John C. Kilts. 
He has always been a farmer, is a Republican, and with his family are Lutherans. 
John 0. Kilts, son of Courad Kilts, was born in Palatine in 1800. He married 
Nancy Nellis, and had eight children. The family belonged to the Reformed church. 
Mr. Kilts died in 1863 and his wife in 1877. 

Miller, Irvin, Palatine, was born in Minden February 3, 1855, a son of John Miller, 
a native of Minden. Jonas Miller was reared an a farm and received a common 
school education. He married Jennette (born in Mmden), a daughter of George and 
Sophia McKenzie, natives of Scotland. They had three sons and one daughter, all 
of whom are living except the eldest. Mr. Miller is a farmer, and resides on the 
farm, where he was born. He is a Republican. Irvin Miller was raised on the 
farm and was educated in the common school. At the age of sixteen he began 
clerking for Smith Bros, of St. Johnsville. He made two trips to the west, locating 
first in Illinois, and second in Wisconsin ; in both places his stay was short. In 1878 
he married Jennie (born in Minden), daughter of D. C. Cox of St. John.sville. He 
was engaged in business with D. C. Cox for three years, and came to Palatine in 1881 
and began the manufacture of straw board, and has since continued that business at 
Palatine church. 

Beck, Peter A., Palatine, was born in Palatine, June 10, 1831. His father was Ben- 
jamin Beck and his grandfather John Beck, a native of Germany, who came to this 
country in 1784, married Mary Nellis of Palatine, and had five sons and one daughter. 
His wife mherited forty acres of land from the o'd homestead, and to this Mr. Beck 
added forty acres; upon this farm they lived and died — he, April 28, 1847, and she in 
1848. Benjamin Beck was born in Palatine in 1802. He married Elizabeth Reas, 
who bore him two sons and four daughters. He was always a farmer, and he and his 
family were Lutherans. He died in Palatine December 26, 1886, and his wife April 
26, 1884. Peter A. Beck was educated in the common schools, and reared on the farm 
where he always lived. September 4, 1834, he married Elizabeth, daughter of David 
and Catharine (Claus) Gray of Ephratah. They have four children : Walter, who re- 
sides on the homestead, and who married Alice, daughter of Peter J. Nellis of Pala- 
tine, and who have two children : Ward P. and Clinton ; Romea, now Mrs. George 
Baudet of Ephratah ; Elvira, now Mrs. Delbert Backer of Johnstown ; and Lizzie E., 
now Mrs. Dewitt Dorn of Ephratah. Mr. Beck owns 171 acres of land; he keeps a 
large dairy ; he is a Republican, and he and his family are members of the Lutheran 
Church. His son Walter is a member of the Stone Arabia Grange No. 690. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 223 

Wood, W. W., Palatine, was born in Epbratah. His father was John V. Wood and 
his grandfather John Wood. The latter wa* born April 12, 1778, married Nancy 
Murray (born September 2-1, 1779), and had eleven children. He came to Ephratah at 
an early day and lived and died there. John V. Wood was born in Ephratah, Decem- 
ber 27, 1S18, was raised on a farm, but spent most of his life as a sawyer. He mar- 
ried first, Nancy Sharp, who died about a year after. He then married. December 22, 
1850, Mary Cretser (born February C, 1828, in Ephratah). They had four sons and 
five daughters. He died April IG, 1876, and his wife February 6, 1885. W. W. Wood 
was brought up on a farm and was educated at the common school. In 1874, with his 
brother-in-law, W. M. Mowrey, he began the manufacture of straw board at Garoga, 
and in 18S7 came to Wagner's Hollow, and is now one of the firm of Mowrey & Wood. 
Mr. Wood is a member of Garoga Lodge, No. 300, F. & A. M., is an active Democrat, 
and has served as inspector of elections and collector. 

Cook, George, Palatine, was born in Oppenheim, July 28, 1846. His father was 
Jacob J. Cook, and his grandfather, George Cook, was a native of Germany, who came 
to Fulton county at an early day and began farming. He had four sons and two 
daughters, and died in Montgomery county. Jacob J. Cook was born in 1812 near 
Albany, and went to Oppenheim. He married Mary, a daughter of Samuel Barker of 
Oppenheim. They had seven sons and two daughters, of whom two sons and one 
daughter survive. He was a farjier and blacksmith, and belonged to the state militia. 
George Cook was raised on a farm and was educated at the common school. He mar- 
ried Lovina (born in Palatine), a daughter of Nathan Getman of Ephratah, a farmer, 
whose wife was Nancy Claus, and who had three sons and four daughters. Mr. Cook 
and bis wife have had four children : Nathan, Chauncey, Jennie and Mabel (deceased). 
In 1863 Mr. Cook enlisted in the Thirteenth New York Heavy Artillery and served to 
the close of the war ; he was at Fort Fisher and Fort Vassel in North Carolina, and 
Fort Ringgold, Virginia. He has always been a farmer, is a member of Mohawk 
Valley Lodge, No, 66, K. of P., also of Uniform Rank, No. 22, at Fort Plain. He and 
family are identified with the Dutch Reformed Church. 

Rickard, Frederick. Palatine, was born in Palatine, May 7, 1854, a son of Josiali and 
Catherine L. (Nellis) Rickard, mentioned elsewhere in this book. He was brought up 
on a farm and educated at the common school. December 20, 1887, he married Almira 
(born in Palatine November, 1862), daughter of William and Louisa Abel — he a native 
of Germany and she of Palatine. Mr. Abel and wife had four sons and two daughters ; 
he died in 1872, and his widow resides in Palatine. The children of Frederick Rickard 
and wife are Warren N. and Harry. Mr. Rickard is a cheese manufacturer and fanner, 
also a member of Stone Arabia Grange No. 690. He and family attend the Dutch 
Reformed Church. 

Snell, Peter B., Palatine, was born in Danube, Herkimer county. April 15. 1820. 
His father was Conrad Snell, who was born at Snell's Bush in 1777, and married Mar- 
garet Bellinger of Danube. He died in 1860, and his wife died at the age of sixty-five. 
His paternal grandfather was Peter Snell, whose wife was Mary Kilts. He served in 
the revolutionary war, after which he settled in Snell's Bush and lived there until his 



224 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

death. Peter B. Snell was reared on a farm and obtained his education at the common 
school. In 1844 he married Maria, a daughter of Peter P. Smith of Danube, They 
have had eight children : Margaret, Catherine, Alice, Ida, Annie (deceased), Ella, 
Navina and John P. In 1850 Mr. Snell came to Palatine from Ingham's Hollow, 
where he had lived three years. He now owns IfiO acres in Palatine, on which he has 
erected good buildings. He runs a dairy and raise; hop.s, having been engaged in the 
latter business for twenty-seven years. He is a Democrat, a member of Union Grange 
No. 580, and has been town auditor. 

Walralh, Reuben K., Palatine, was born in Palatine, February 4, 1818. His father 
was Peter P. ; his grandfather, Peter H. ; and his great-grandfather, Henry Walrath, 
who bought the land now owned by Reuben K., as well as considerable other land in 
Palatine. He was buried on the farm now owned by Peter Ehle. Peter H. Walrath 
was born in Palatine in 1766; he married Annie E. Hillegas (born in 1763), who bore 
him seven daughters and two sons; he built a log house on the farm now owned by 
Reuben K.. and lived, died and was buried there. Peter P. Walrath was born on the 
homestead, September 18, 1793, married Evaline, daughter of George G. Klock (born 
June 2, 1 792) of St. Johnsville, and had one child, Reuben K. The family belonged to 
the M. E. Church. He died March 12, 1865, and his wife August 2, of the same year. 
Reuben K. NValrath was educated in the common school, and has always lived on the 
farm where he was born. December 24, 1840, he married Marion, daughter of John 
and Sarah (Wicks) De Forest of Minden, who had three sons and two daughters, and 
who both died in Minden. Reuben K. Walrath and wife have had children as fol- 
lows: Helen A , born August 16. 1842, died October 22, 1879; Minerva A., born 
August 3. 1844. died April 30, 1859; Albert P., born July 10, 1848, who lives in Wil- 
mington, Del., and is in the employ of Postmaster-General Wanamaker at Philadelphia; 
Marion A., born October 5, 1850. died December 13, 1869. Mr. Walrath is a Republi- 
can, and he and family are members of the M. E. Church at Canajoharie, in which he 
has been class leader for the last fifty years. 

Wohlgemuth, Peter C, Palatine, was born in Palatine, June 27, 1854, a son of 
Leonard and Elizabeth (Coughnel) Wohlgemuth. For five generations the family have 
owned this farm. The great-grandfather, John, was the father of Jacob. The latter 
had five children, of whom but one is now living, Leonard, who was born in 1819 and 
married first Dorothy Coughnet. She died and he married second Elizabeth, sister of 
his first wife, by whom he had five children, four of whom survive : Maggie A., wife of 
Vedder Yates, of Root; Catherine, wife of W. H. Richard, of Sprakers; Jacob L., a 
traveling man of Canajoharie; and Peter C. The latter was educated in Fort Plain 
Seminary and Macedon Academy, and married, October 11, 1876, Ella, daughter of 
Peter B. Snell of Palatine, by whom he had four children : Claude P., born September 
30, 1877 ; Carl L., born January 29, 1880 ; Fred J., born December 5, 1881 ; and Frank 
S., born March 1, 1887. The year of his marriage Mr. Wohlgemuth took charge of the 
homestead farm. In 1891 he was elected commissioner of highways of the town of 
Palatine, on the Democratic ticket. He is lecturer of the Palatine Union Grange and 
was chosen as master of the Montgomery and Fulton County Council the year it was 
formed, continuing through the second year as master of Montgomery Council, tha 



FAMILY SKETCHES 225 

Fulton county people hnving organised a council of their own. He was also master of 
his home lodge for about three vears. He and his wife are members of the Reformed 
church of Canajoharie. 

Failing, Abram, Palatine, was born in Oppenheim, December 19, 1S4G, a son of Abram 
•nd Catharine (Baun) Failing. Abram. the father, was a farmer and owned a saw- 
mill in Oppenheim. The early life of the latter was spent in St. Johnsville, where his 
parents moved when he was but two years old. He was eilucated there and in the 
common sdiools of Mayfield and Oppenheim. At the age of fifteen he enlisted at the 
breaking out of the war, in Company B, One Hundred and Fifteenth Regiment Volun- 
teer Infantry for three years. He first saw service at Harper's Ferry, and was cap>- 
tured there under General Miles, but was paroled and sent back to the federal lines. 
He was sent from thence to Chicago for western service, but was ordered back to 
■Washington and was on guard duty for two months and tlien went to Fortress Monroe; 
from thence to Torktown, and then to South Carolina. He was at Beaufort about 
five months and then went to Jacksonville, He was in the battle of Olustee where he 
■was wounded and lay in hospital four months. He then went to Richmond where, 
July 30, 1S64, he was injured by the blowing up of the mine at Petersburg, which did 
not deter him from engaging in the fight at Deep Bottom on the north side James 
river. He was seriously wounded and was discharged on account of his wound, May 
11. 1S65. He engaged, after his return home, in the cheese-making business, following 
this fourteen years. He then went into the poultry business which he follows at 
present. His tirst wife, Anna E. Groff, died November 22. 1SS2, leaving three chil- 
dren : Mattie E.. Etta and Reuben. Mr. Failing married second Alice Atkin.«, widow 
of Byron Flanders, and they have three children : Norman, Arthur and Willie. Mr. 
Failing is a member of Hamilton Lodge, Na 79, F. and A. M. and also of Post Farrall, 
G, A. R 

Nellis, James W., Palatine, was born in Fulton county, February 10. ISoO. His 
father was Henry Xellis. a native of Montgomery county, who married Catherine Fos 
and had five sons and three daughters : they were farmers and members of die Lutheran 
church. Henry Nellis was born in Montgomery county in 1S24, was reared on a farm 
and attended the public schools. He matried Eve, daughter of Jacob J. and Ellen 
(Quackenbush) Wilson, who bore him seven daughters and two sons, of whom the sub- 
ject is the sixth child. Mr. Nellis was a farmer, held many town offices, and he and his 
family were Lutherans. He died in 1SS2 ; his widow survives. James W. Nellis was 
educated at the public schools and remained on the farm until twenty-four years of 
age. In 1S79 he married Emma, daughter of Henry and Nancy Osborne of Fulton 
county, who bore him the following named children : Carrie. Gertie, Mabel and Lester 
H. October 1, 1S74, he came to Nelliston and engaged in the butcher business, which 
he followed eight years;. He was then elected justice of the peace and took up the 
practice of law, which he followed until ISSS. He has been justice of the peace eleven 
years, and twice elected justice of sessions. In 1SS8 he began the bakery and grocery 
business, which he still continues. He is president of the village of Nelliston and his 
wife is a member of the Dutch Reformed church. 



22G HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Nellis, Harvey, Palatine, was born in Palatine, May 16, 1846, a son of John J., 
a son of John I., whose father was John L.. and was a son of Lewis Nellis, who 
came from Germany and settled where Harvey Nellis now resides. John L. was born 
in Palatine in 1765, served in the revolutionary army, at one time owned a large tract 
of land, and died in 1841. John I. was born in Palatine, September 12, 1790, mar- 
ried, November 28, 1813, Annie Christman, and had one son and three daughters. They 
were Lutherans. He died April 10, 1867, and she November 17, 1874. John J. 
Nellis was born August 12, 1814 in Palatine, was raised on a farm, and married Janu- 
ary 29, 1837, Elizabeth Fox, who bore him five sons and three daughters. Mr. Nellis 
was a captain in the militia, and he and his wife were Lutherans. He died September 
12, 1875, and his widow still is living. Harvey Nellis was raised on a farm and edu- 
cated at the common school. In 1877 he married Ervina, daughter of Simeon and 
Mary (Gray) Claus. Mr. Claus was born in Montgomery county and his wife in Fulton 
■county ; they had eleven children. Simeon Claus's father was Nicholas, whose father 
was killed during the revolutionary war. He was shot while unloading wheat on his 
farm ; and his wife saved her life by hiding under the sheaves of wheat. Harvey 
Nellis and wife have had five children : Emma, John J., Adam (deceased), Mary and 
Harvey. Mr. Nellis has always been a farmer, is a member of Fort Plain Lodge, No. 
433, F. and A. M., and he and his family are identified with the Lutheran Church. 

Van Wie, George D., Palatine, was born in Palatine where his father, Daniel G., 
now lives, June 30, 1864. His whole life has been spent in this town. He was educated 
in the Clinton Liberal Institute, and assisted his falher on the farm till January, 1889, 
when he moved on the farm of his present residence, a fine place of 110 acres, the 
principal crop being hops, of which he has about 5,000 plants, and employs during the 
busy time about sixty workers. He married in 1887, on September 28, Janie, daughter 
of William Miller of Palatine, and they have one child, Margerie J., born February 16, 
1889. Mr. and Mrs. Van Wie are members of the Reformed church of Canajoharie. 

Billington, Spencer, Florida, was born at Bull's Head in Florida on April £5, 1850, 
being one of four children of Amos and Sallie M. (Sweet) Billington. In 1870 he 
graduated at the State Normal school at Albany, and for the following ten years he fol- 
lowed the profession of teaching school, and was highly popular and successful. In 
1880 he engaged in business as a hay dealer, which occupation he has followed to the 
present time. He was for over two years a member of the commission house of Plow- 
man & Billington, located at No. 15 New York Hay Exchange, Thirty-third street and 
Eleventh avenue. New York, and at Fort Hunter in the town of Florida, but now car- 
ries on the business in his own name, Mr. Plowman having gone out of the firm. On 
the 24th of April, 1878, he was married to Mary S., daughter of Samuel and Minerva 
Prancisco of the town of Florida. They have five children : George F., Nellie E., 
Herbert L., Lena D. and M. Janet. 

Shull, Alfred W., Stone Arabia, was born in the town of Palatine on the same farm 
he now resides on, December 12, 1834, and is a son of Daniel L. and Mary ( Cook ) 
Schull. Colonel William, the grandfather, was colonel of the 101st militia, receiving 
the appointment in April, 1818. He came to this town from Lewis county in 1834, and 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 227 

located on this same farm. He married Eliza Hurty, and they had four children : Cath- 
arine, Daniel L., Mary and Alfred. Daniel L., father of our subject, was born neat 
Lowvdle, Lewis county, in 1810, and married Mary, daughter of Captain Rudolph C. 
Cook of this town. He was a captam of militia iu the war of 1812. The first occu- 
pation of Daniel L. was that of teacher, which he followed but two years, and then 
joined with his father in the purchase of the old homestead farm, where he continued 
until his death. He was killed August 20, 1869, by a stroke of lightning, leaving four 
children by his first wife, Mary Cook, who died in 1848; and three by his second wife, 
who still lives. Her name was Catharine Shults; the children were as follows : Cath- 
arine, who died in 1884, aged thirty-six; Elizabeth, wife of Walter Shoemaker of Chi- 
cago ; and Charlotte, who died aged eleven years. The children by his second wife 
are: Mary, wife of James Broat of Iowa; John of Sioux City, Iowa, a lumber mer- 
chant in company with his brother, Willard C, the other son. The whole life of Al- 
fred W. was spent on the farm, and he was educated at the Carlisle and Cooperstown 
Seminaries. After leaving school he returned to the old farm. After his father's death 
he bought the interests of the other heirs, and has since successfully conducted it. He 
also owns the hotel on the opposite side of the road. In 1875 he married Martha M. 
Wallace, by whom he had one daughter, Mary Elizabeth, now attending the Chicago 
University, and a son, Alfred W., jr., who died in infancy. Mrs. Shull died in January, 
1884, and Mr. Shull married, second, in June, 1888, Ida Gray, daughter of Samuel 
Gray of Palatine. Mr. Shull has never taken an active interest in politics, and is a 
supporter of the Republican party. He is a successful farmer, owning a farm of 208 
acres (the home farm on which was located Fort Paris of revolutionary days); also twa 
other farms in Palatine, and one in Fulton county. Mr. Shull has a bell hanging in a 
belfry on his wagon-house, which originally bore the inscription of " Sir William John- 
son, baronet, 1774, made by Miller & Ross in Eliz Town." The bell weighs over lOO' 
pounds, and was originally used by Sir William, and after his death by his son. Sir 
John, as a dinner bell. Upon the confiscation of the property of Sir John, it was pur- 
chased by several members of Caughnawaga church and placed upon that building. 
Here it continued to perform its sacred mission for over fifty years, when the entire 
church property having been purchased by Rev. Douw Van O'Linda, the bell was sold 
by him to Daniel L. Shull, who restored it to its original use, that of a dmner bell. In 
1862, Mr. Shull for the reason that it was cracked and imperfect in tone, had it recast. 

Brower, Harmon, Palatine, was born in Palatine August 18, 1844, and is a son of 
Harmon H. and Margaret (Spoor) Brower. The great-grandfather of the subject, (Har- 
mon Brower), was a native of this town, and had a son Harmon, also born here, who 
had thirteen children, Harmon H. being the oldest son. He was born in 1804, and al- 
ways lived on the old homestead, on which various members of the family have lived 
for 150 years. During the revolution part of the woodwork of this old house was 
burned, but part of the wall of the original house is still standing, which was first built 
by the great-grandfather. They have been a family of farmers, and controlled about 
200 acres of the best agricultural land in this section. Harmon H. had five children : 
Sarah, wife of Daniel Yanney of Ephratah ; Mary, widow of William Brower of Mo- 
hawk ; Helen, wife of Charles Chrissman of Mohawk ; John, a farmer on the home- 



•228 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERT COrXTT. 

stead ; and our subject. The latter received a common school education and worked 
on the farm until he was twenty-nine years of age, when he bought his present resi- 
dence of 115 acres, where he built a fine dwelling and added many iniprovenients. In 
1872 he married Maggie Schuyler of Mohawk and they have had four children: Her- 
man H., Maud, Hamilton S., and Bert In 1870 Mr. Brower was elected town clerk of 
Palatine, and re-elected in 1871. 

Dockstader. William. Palatine, was born in St. Johnsville October 21, 1841, and is 
a son of Frederick and Keziah (Soules) Dockstader. Jacob P., the grandfather, a na- 
tive of Palatine, was the father of ten children, of whom Frederick was the youngest 
son. He was born in Palatine in 1809, and while a young man removed to St Johns- 
ville, where he followed his trade of shoemaking. He married in (hat town, Eeziah 
Soules, who IS still living, aged e'ghty-one years. They had ten children, ten of whom 
survive: Jacob, sexton of Tribes Hill cemetery; Benjamin, a farmer of Calker City, 
Kansas; Peter, a farmer of Ephralah; ICaucy A., wife of AJonzo Aker of Palatine; 
George, a farmer of Ephratah ; Uriah, of Johnstown ; Mary, wife of Jacob Chrisman, 
a retired farmer of Palatine ; and William, ou"- subject When the latter was three 
years old his parents moved to Ephratah, where he was educated in the common schools. 
He worked on the farm until his majority, when he spent nine years on different farms, 
and then went into the clieese business, which he has since followed being located at 
the Palatine Union factory three years, and the last sixteen years at his pre.=ent loca- 
tion. He married in 1872, Sarah A. Getman. daughter of Uriah Getman of Palatine, 
and they have had three children: Eddy C, born December 16, 1872; Boyd D., born 
April 5, 1880 ; and Ida, born July 1, 1881. In 1885 Mr. Dockstader added to the cheese 
factory a grist and cider mill, which have proved quite a successful venture. His in- 
terest in politics is only for the success of the Democratic party, and not as an office- 
seeker. 

Patterson, William H., Charleston, was born in Duanesburg February 29, 1858. He 
was the only child of Clark and Elizabetli ( Liddle) Patterson, Clark Patterson, the 
father, was born in Connecticut, being one of eight children of William Patterson, a 
native of that State, who emigrated to Schenectady county in early life and who 
was a lieutenant in the revolutionary army. Elizabeth (Liddle) Patterson, the mother 
of William H.. was one of seven children of Thomas and Jennie (Robinson) Liddle, 
who was born in Scotland, coming here in early life. The others were Robert, John, 
Aleck, Romeyn and Peter Liddle and Jane (Mrs. Henry Wright). Mr. Patterson has 
always lived in Duanesburg and Charleston. 

McDuffee. Judson. Charleston, was born in Charleston June 6, 1846, being one of 
three children of William and Temperance (Davis) McDuffee of Charleston, whose father 
and mother were born in Ediugburgh, Scotland. Temperance Davis, the mother, was 
one of three children of Lyman and (Vunck) Davis. Judson was married Decem- 
ber 28, 1870. to Thankful Brown of Carlisle. She is one of eight children of David E. 
and Elizabeth (Dillenbeck) Brown. They have had seven children : Charles, Winfield 
L., William, Elizabeth, Ida May, Minnie and Xewell G. (who died in childhood). With 
the exception of five year? in business in New Tork, Mr. McDuffee has resided in Charles- 
ton, being a farmer and hay-buyer. ^ 



FAMILY SKETCHES. ' 229 

Egleston, Ervin J., Charleston, was born in Charleston December 24, 18-19. lie was 
one of four children of Simon and Caroline (Rockwell) Egleston ; the others being Ben- 
jamin, William and Perry Egleston. Simon, the father, was one of three children of 
Benjaraui Egleston of Charleston; the others being Amos and Mehitable (Mrs. Peter 
Van Valkenberg). Caroline Rockwell, the mother, was born in Esperance, and was one 
of nine children of James Rockwell ; the others being Lewis, Isaiah, Jerry, and Williams 
Rockwell, also Eliza (Mrs. John Diniger), Louisa (Mrs. Spencer Knapp) and two who 
died. Ervin J. Egleston was married December 1, 1876, to Naomi Rockwell of Esperance, 
one of live children of Hiram and Nancy (Bradshaw) Rockwell ; the others being Mary 
Jane (Mrs. Hiram Jones), and Eli Rockwell, and two who died in childhood. 

Argersinger, Charles, of Glen, was born in Fulton county November 15, 1844, being 
one of five children of Martin C. and Jane (Cromwell) Argersinger. The others were 
Christian, Franklin B., Ella (Mrs. John Tompson), and Ida. His grandparents were 
Christian and Mary (Selmser) Argersinger, the latter of Fulton county. His mother was 
one of four children of Peter Cromwell, the mother of Peter having been Elaine (Yost) 
Cromwell. Charles Argersinger married, June 11, 1872, Phoebe L. Voorhees, one of five 
children of Henry and Emma (Lansing) Voorhee.«, the others being Peter, John, James 
and Annie (Mrs. David Hubb.s), the latter deceased. They have three children : Emma, 
Edward V., and Herbert W., who lives at home on the farm. 

Stowitts, George P., Root, son of Jacob and Nancy (Lyker) Stowitts, was born where 
he now resides July 3, 1820, receiving a district school education. He owns 150 acres 
of the original homestead, and is a general farmer. He served as assessor on the Re- 
publican ticket. July 14, 1841, he married Charlotte Legg, born in Minden, JIass., 
and the daughter of Asa and Abigail (Benson) Legg. AsaLeggwasof English origin, 
and the grandfather, David Legg, served throughout the revolution. Charlotte Legg 
came to Root in 1835. She received a district school education. Mr. and Mrs. 
Stowitts have three children : Jacob, Cornelius, a Presbyterian minister who was edu- 
cated at Hamilton and Auburn ; and Herbert, who died aged four years. They have 
also an adopted daughter, Emma, wife of L. A. Servis=. Mr. and Mrs. Stowitts have 
been lifelong members of the Reformed church. Mr. Stowitts was one of the organ- 
izers of, and is a stockholder in the Flat Creek cheese factory. 

Leonardson, John D., Root, son of Aaron and Lana (Gross) Leonardson, was born in 
Root January 10, 1830, and received a district school education. He cared for his 
father until the death of the latter, and now owns the homestead of 108 acres. In De- 
cember, 1861, he enlisted in the Union army and participated in the battle of Fair 
Oaks, and was a musician, and received his discharge August 31, 1865, at Richmond, 
Va. He returned home and resumed farming. He is a Republican in politics. He 
married Nancy, daughter of Jacob and Elizabeth (Quackenbush) Van Valkenburg, and 
they have one daughter, Ada Maxwell. Mr. and Mrs. Leonardson have been members 
of the Lutheran church for thirty years. John T., grandfather of our .subject, was a 
soldier in the revolutionary war, was of Dutch origin and a farmer at Randall. His 
wife was Sarah Putnam and they had four sons and two daughters. They both died at 
Flat Creek. Aaron Leonardson was born in Root, and served in the war of 1812. He 



230 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

was twice married, by his first -wife he had two children. By his second wife he had 
five children, four of whom reached maturity : Eliza, Catharine, Henry and John D. 
Aaron died July 31, 1868, aged seventy-three years. 

Lounsbury, Louii, Root, son of Louis, was born July fi, 1813, in the town of Ononda- 
ga, in the same county. His father was a shoemaker, and carried on that business near 
the Indian Reservation. Louis graduated from the Onondaga Academy and after leav- 
ing school entered the store of Orin Tyler, remaining about four years. He then en- 
tered a dry goods store in Syracuse, continuing three years. He next taught writing 
schools for four years in various towns, then ran a boat on the Erie canal for several 
years, and in 1850 he located at Yatesville and built a store, carrying on business for 
several years. He was superintendent of the Erie canal for three years, and then went 
to New York and became port warden there from 1858 to 1885. He then returned to 
this county where he has ever since resided. He was instrumental in getting the post- 
office established here, and called the office Randall. His son, John E., was the first 
postmaster. He married Mary A. Martin and had eight children, five of whom survive: 
Louis E., Helen Elizabeth, Thurlow Weed, Louise E., Darsey E., and John Edward, 
William B., and George H., the latter three deceased. Mr. Lounsbury has been a 
Republican ever since that party was organized. 

Dievendorf, Charles, Root, son of William B. and Elizabeth (Dievendorf) Dievendorf, 
was born March 3, 1853, where he now resides. He was educated in the district schools 
and Fort Plain and Fairfield Academies. He resuled with his father until the death of 
the latter, and now owns the homestead farm of 344 acres, besides another farm of 200 
acres, and a half interest in 132 acres with his brothers. He also owns a farm in Scho- 
harie county, 140 acres, and is a stockholder in the Fonda National Bank. He owns a 
half interest in Dievendorf & Snow's store at Canajoharie ; also stock in the N. Y. C. & 
L. S. railroads; in the Western Union Telegraph Co.; and in the Flat Creek cheese 
factory. Mr. Dievendorf is a Democrat in politics. He has been twice married, first 
to Helen, daughter of Elias and Lucretia (Wessel) Lasher. They had three children: 
Elizabeth. William, and Lucretia. His wife died April 16, 1885, and he married second, 
Alice, daughter of Jesse and Ann E. (Countryman) Fox of Schoharie county, and had 
by her two children : Dewey and Ruth. Mr. and Mrs. Dievendorf are active in the 
Reformed churcli. 

Failing, Robert C, Root, was born in Fort Plain March 4, 1836, and is a son of 
Philip and Lana (Nellis) Failing. He was reared on a farm and received a district school 
education. At the age of eighteen he left the homestead and spent two years in the west, 
returning at the end of that time, he lived on the farm until he was twenty-nine years 
of age. In the fall of 1867 he bought 100 acres where he now resides, adding later 
thirty acres. He makes a specialty of hops. He is Republican, and has served as trus- 
tee and supervisor, being only the second Republican who has ever been elected since 
the formation of the party. He was a delegate to the convention in 1885. April 6, 
1865, he married Mary B., daughter of Russell and Margaret (Cornue) Bishop. They 
have one child, Alice V., wife of Frank Van Vaikenburgh. His wife is a member of 
the Reformed church. His grandfather, John P. Failing (whose father came from Hoi- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 231 

land and settled in Fort Plain), was born near the latter place in 1780, and died in 
18-10. He married Mary Casler, by whom he had four sons and five daughters, of 
whom one son, Philip, was born at Fort Plain June 30, 1809, and has been a farmer 
and hop prower. He retired wealthy, and is still active. He was one of the first or- 
gaiiizeis of the first Universalist church at Fort Plain. He reared three sons and three 
dau<:hters, all living and married. His wife died March 1, 1891 ; she was born near 
Furt Plain, a daughter of John Nellis, who was a son of General George H. Nellis, a 
colonel and then general in the war of 1812. He was at Sackett's Harbor, and then 
served several terms in the assembly. 

Lipe, Jacob I., Minden, second son of John A., was born in Minden October 20, 1796, 
and married Lany, daughter of John C. Ehle. She w'as born in Minden December 7, 
179G. Their children were : Jeremiah, born May 25, 1821, died in infancy; Josiah, 
bom November 2. 1823, resides in Minden ; John Ehle ; Delia, born January 11, 1829, 
widow of Thomas Parr, resides in Amsterdam ; and Ann, born October 28, 1834, wife 
of Ephraim Miller of Little Falls. Jacob I. resided on the farm now occupied by his 
son, John E., where he died February 6, 1879. Mrs. Lipe died September 11, 1891. 
John Ehle Lipe was born in Minden September 7, 182G, and married, January 27, 1848, 
Susan, daughter of John and Margaret Coughtry. They have three children : Charles 
Ehle, born March 20, 1851, married Mary Sponable, and has one child, John Clifford, 
and carries on a machine shop in Syracuse; Ada C, born April 13, 1855, wife of T. 
Romayne Zimmerman of Minden ; Willard Coughtry, born December 21, 1861, 
married Jennie Sponable, and has one child, Marjorie. He is engaged in the cigar 
box man\ifacturing business in Syracuse. John Ehle Lipe, has always been en- 
gaged in farming in Minden, and is a Republican in politics. 

Wood, Herbert Coburn, Minden, was born at Fort Plain July 8, 1849, and is the 
oldest son of E. W. and Emily (Coburn) Wood. After attending the village schools he 
•entered the Clinton Liberal Institute, but on account of ill health did not graduate. 
After a clerkship of two years in the grocery store of Wood, Clark & Hall, and on the 
retiren ent of the junior member of the firm, Mr. Wood obtained a paiternership, the 
firm being Wood, Clark & Company. The .senior Wood retired from the firm in 1881 
and the firm became Clark & Wood, which continued till 1889, when Archie Stewart 
acquired an interest and the firm became Clark, Wood & Stewart. Mr. Stewart re- 
tired from the firm September 12, 1891, and F. H. Smith became a partner. William 
Clark disposed of his interest May 1, 1892. and the firm now consists of H. C. Wood 
and F. H. Smith. In politics Mr. Wood is a Republican. He married Sarah L., daugh- 
ter of James E. Dewey of Fort Plain, and they have three children: Alice D., Edwin 
W., and Rexie L 

Lipe Family, The. — This family is of German extraction. One John A. Lipe, who was 
born August 1, 1764, was a merchant in Minden, and kept a store on what was known 
as Sand Hill in that town. He had also engaged in agricultural pursuits, and was the 
only one engaged in mercantile business at that time in Minden. He married on 
November 11, 1788, Elizabeth, daughter of Daniel Lambert. She was born April 24, 
1768. Of their ten children, one died in infancy. [The others were : Elizabeth, born 



232 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Jamifiry 2, 1793, married Andrew Bellinger, and died in Root ; John I. ; Jacob I. ; Con- 
rad, died aged twenty-one years; Catharine, born November 13, 1800, married John 
Walrath, and died in Minden; Margaret, born April 12, 1S04, married Solomon San- 
ders, and died in New York ; Maria, born May 18, 1S05, married David Diefendorf, 
and died in Minden; Daniel I., born November 22, 1808, died in Michigan; and 
Susan, born November 26, 1811, resides in Fort Plain. John A. always lived in 
Minden, where he died. He married for his second wife Mrs. Elizabeth (Daggett) 
Keller. John I., the oldest son of the above family, was born in Minden March 3, 
1795, and died in that town May 2, 1870. He married Maria, daughter of Adam 
Timmerman. She lived to be ninety years of age. Their children were : Eliza, who 
married Jonas Nestle, and died in Minden; Catharine, married Chauncey Getnian, and 
died in Minden; Margaret, married David E. Casler, and died in Minden ; Nancy, mar- 
ried Jacob Cook, and died in Illinois; Adam and Elvira, both died at the age of 
eight years. John I. was engaged in farming pursuits, also operated a saw and 
grist-mill, and lived just west of Fort Plain. Adam, the only son of John 1., waa 
born in Minden February 18, 1830, and married, December 27, 1853, Martha, daugh- 
ter of John Adam Snell of Snell's Bush, Herkimer county ; they had .seven children : 
John Adam, a resident of Chicago; Mary Elvira, who married Michael Romaiu Keith, 
and died in Minden ; Julia Camilla, died aged four and a halt years ; Francis Albert, 
married Sarah., daughter of Jacob C. Nellis, and has two children, Greta, and an infant, 
and resides in Fort Plain ; Herman Seeber, a resident of Fort Plain ; Clara Elizabeth, 
wife of Ilenry Eeibel of Fort Plain. They have one child : Herman Emiel Reibel, and 
Margaret Gertrude, who died aged .<;ixteen. Adam Lipe was engaged in farming until 
1875. when he came to Fort Plain, and bought what was known as the Montgomery 
House, changing the name to the Lipe House, which he carried on till his death, which 
occurred August 19, 18S9. 

Van Slyke Family, The. — Nicholas Van Slyke came from Holland and was one of 
the early settlers of the Mohawk valley. He married a Miss Luthersand had four chil- 
dren: Garret, who died in Herkimer county ; John ; David, who died in Minden ; and 
Tinus, who died in Palatine. John of the above family was born in Minden, and died 
in that town in 1867 in his eighty-sixth year. He married Jane Schouten and had a 
family of fourteen children, viz. : Polly, married John Lewis and died in Minden ; Eliza, 
married Peter Valentine, and died in Erie, Pa. ; Nancy, widow of Henry Haven, re- 
sides at East Schuyler; Nicholas, lives in Minden; Margaret, died young ; Emeline, 
married Joseph Sparks and died in Minden ; Charlotte, died young ; Jane, married 
Henry S. Ba.xter and died at Erie, Pa. ; Catharine, died young; Livinia, widow of 
Milica Thompson, resides in Buren county, Michigan ; Maria, widow of Charles Flams- 
bury, resides in Minden; Daniel; Lucinda, wife of Charles H. Hibbard of Manlius; 
Lifitte, married R. C. Canneni, and died at Minden. Daniel, the youngest son of the 
above family, was born in Palatine, September 3(>, 1832, and married Catharine Hess. 
Of their five children two died in infancy. The others are: John, born in Minden, 
November 24, 1859, married Ella McCauley, and has two children, Daniel and Edward ; 
Charles, born in Minden, April 9, 1801, married Mrs. Addie (Wicks) Winslow. He 
was engaged in farming till 1891, and since then has conducted a cheese factory ; Hat- 



FAMILY SKETCHES 233 

tie, wife of John IT. Free of Cliicapo. Daniel is a Democrat in politics, and has been 
commissioner of hiffhways. In 1853 he went to California, where lie remained five 
years. Besides beiiif; engaged in farming, he has carried on lumbering and runs a saw- 
mill. He is proprietor of the Ilallsville cheese factory. 

Moyer Family, The. — One of the oldest, as well as one of the most numerous families 
in Minden, is the Moyer family. They are of German descent, but owing to the fact that 
no records have been preserved in the families, we are unable to give any definite in- 
formation in reference to the earliest settlers of that name. Andrew Moyer was born 
in Miiiden March 12, 1777, and married Nancy, dauphter of Abraham Arndt. They 
had six children : Solomon, Jacob A., Anna Maria, wife of Jacob Sanders of Minden ; 
Catliarine, who died young; Abraham; Helen, died in Minden. Andrew Moyer died 
July 29, 1807. Jacob A., son of Andrew, was born June 5, 1818, and married Amelia, 
daughllier of Henry S. C. Mayer. Their children are Andrew Henry, Viorn October 30, 
1854, married Alice, daughter of William Lipe, has one child, May Louisa, born Octo- 
ber 11, 1884; Ida Louisa, died young; Ralph, born May 18, 18G0, married Florence, 
daughter of George Ilisgen and lives at Ilion ; Frank, born October 20, 1862, married 
Julia, daughter of Martin Flanders, has one child, Ray, and resides in Minden. 

Moyer, Frederick, Minden, was born in Minden and married Mary Rickard. by whom 
he had ten children : Margaret, who married John Lambert, and died in Minden ; John 
F. ; David, died in Stark; Betsey, widow of Lorenzo Young.«, lives in Minden; Henry, 
resides in Johnstown; Isaac, died in Fort Plain; Maria, widow of Peter J. Miller of 
Stark; Jeremiah, died in Danube; Ann, widow of Cornelius Diefendorf, resides in 
Syracuse; and Ezra, who died in Minden. John F., the oldest son of Frederick, was 
born in Minden, August 28, 1805, and married, January 12, 1827, Nancy, daughter of 
Garret Youngs. She was born in Minden January 20, 1807. Their children were: 
Garret, who died in Minden; John Aaron; Mary Catharine, born May 20, 1832, wife 
of William Hess of Phoenix ; Nancy Maria, who married Ira Dunckle, and died in Min- 
den; Chauncey Lambert; Peter Alfred; Daniel Nathan; and John F., who died 
August 10, 1882. Peter Alfred, son of John F., was born in Minden September 20, 
1838. He married Mahala, daughter of Abraham Jordan of Stark, and they have three 
children : Charles Aaron, married Roseda Williams, and has one child, Florence, they 
reside in Minden ; Ellen, wife of James Thompson of Minden ; and Nellie E. 

Yost, John Sherburne, Minden, was born in Yost Station, June 1, 1858, and is the 
youngest son in a family of five children of Daniel and Phoebe (Fero) Yost. He at- 
tended the local schools and graduated in 1870 fiom the Fort Plain Seminary, and the 
same year commenced the study of law with his uncle. Judge George Yost. Admitted 
to the bar in 1879, he formed a partnership with Lester M. AVeller. This firm was dis- 
solved in 1883, when Mr. Yost went to St. Louis, and was a member of the law firm of 
Frost, Clardy & Co. He remained in St. Louis for a year and a half, when he returned 
to Fort Plain and since that time has practiced his profession, continuing his business 
making a specialty of criminal cases. In politics a Republican, he has never held any 
public offices. Mr. Yost married Catherine, daughter of James Carroll of St. Johns- 
ville, and they have one child, William Frost, jr. 



234 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Zoller, William, Minden, was born at Ogdensburgh, June 14, 1846, and is the third 
son of a family of ten cliildren of James and Huldah (Greene) Zoller. In 1861 he be- 
came a student at the St. Lawrence University at Canton. In 1875 he entered Hahne- 
mann Medical CoUefre at Philadelphia, from which he graduated in March, 1878. He 
had, previous to tlii.«, studied medicine with Dr. N. Child of Ogdensburg. He com- 
menced the practice of his profe?!-iou at Fort Plain the same year in which he gradu- 
uated, and where he has since continued. He is a member of the St. Lawrence County 
Medical and the New York State Homoeopathic societies!. In politics a Republican, he 
is at present one of the county's corouer.s. He married Mrs. Juliette (Dillenbeck) 
Zoller. 

Snyder, Henry C, Minden, was born in Minden January 14, 1829, and died in that 
town July, 7, 1889. He married Catharine, daughter of Peter Hoke, and they had 
three children: Jacob H., a resident of Danube ; Emma and Willard. His father was 
Jacob Snyder, and he has always resided on the homestead in Minden, where he 
was engaged in farming. In politics a Democrat, he never was an aspirant for public 
office. Willard, the son of Henry G. Snyder, was born in Minden, September 10, 
1864, received a common school education, and since his father's death has carried 
on the farm. 

Weller, Edwin, Minden. was born in Minden February 15, 1847. His education 
was limited to the district school and he spent his early life on his father's farm, 
excepting a period of two or three years when he was engaged with his father in the 
plaster business at Fort Plain. Since 1870 he has carried on the old homestead farm, 
which is situated in the southern part of the town of Minden, and which he purchased 
in 1879. Politically he is a Republican. He married Mary Jane, daughter of the late 
Isaac Copley, and they have four children, viz. : Le Roy, Gerta, Lena and Grace. 

Van Dusen, Barnet, Minden, was born at Greenbush, Rensselaer county, March 
20, 1795, and married October 3, 1819, Nancy Yerdon. Their children were Elijah, 
born November 13, 1820, died in Minden; Harriet, born August 2, 1822, wife of Hiram 
Walralh of Minden; Davis, born October 6, 1824, died in Minden; James, born No- 
vember 30, 182C, died in Minden; Robert born January 21, 1829, died in Virginia 
during the war; Maria, born April 6, 1831, wife of Noah Beckman of St. Johnsville ; 
Solomon, born January 18,1833, lives at Fort Plain; Rebecca, born February 27, 
1835, wife of Adam Wiles of Minden ; John P., born February 8, 1837, lives at Frey's 
Bush; Dewitt; Willie, born July 6, 1841, lives at St. Johnsville; Seward, died aged 
three years; and George J., died aged three years. Barnet lived iu Minden, where he 
died. He was a harnessmaker and shoemaker and in latter years attended the town 
toll gate. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. Dewitt, of the above family, was 
born in Minden, May 12, 1839, and married Helen Dix. They have one child, Alzetta 
May. He has been engaged in cheesemaking twenty-three years — nine years in 
Vermont, and the remainder of the time in Minden. 

Smith, J. Cooper, Minden, was born in Oxford, Chenango county, July 21, 1827. 
His father, John Smith, was born in County Cavan, Ireland, in 1789, and married 
Susan Hewes. The other children bj' this marriage were: William, a resident of Fort 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 235 

Plain; James, living in Onaga, Kansas; Esllier, married Dewilt C. Gibson, and died 
in Fort Plain ; Robert, lives in Lyons ; and Calbarine, wife of John Diefendorf of Fort 
Plain. John came to America in 1810, locating at Hallsville, where, after remaining 
three years, he went to Oxford. He returned to Minden in 1828, wliere he died 
January 31, 18G5. J. Cooper Smith married Catherine, danjiliter of Henry Sart of 
Minden. They have three children : Grant, a conductor on the Pullman Palace Car 
attached to the Royal Blue Line, between New York and Washington ; Nettie and 
John. Mr. Smith went to California in 18o2, being engaged in mining. After .staying 
there two years, on returning home he woiked on the Yankee Blade of Point Aquilla. 
Returning to San Francisco, he continued mining two years longer, and came home in 
1856. The following year he went to Lyons, where he was engaped in meicantile 
business till 1865. Since that time he has carried on farming in Minden. In politics 
he is a Democrat. 

Sanders Family, The. — Of German descent, the first one of which of whom we have 
been able to obtain any record, who settled in Minden, was Henry Sander.s. He mar- 
ried a Miss Moyer and had three sons, Henry, Solomon and Jacob. The latter was 
born in Minden March 17, 1780, and died in that town April 21, 1856. He married 
Elizabeth Keller, and had seven children : Lany, who married Daniel Diefendorf, and 
died in Jefl'erson county ; Elizabeth, widow of J. I. Zoller, resides in Minden; Henry 
C. ; Jacob, a resident of Minden; Mary, also a resident of this town ; Catharine and 
Nancy, twins, the former the wife of Horatio Nellis of Canajohane, and the latter 
died young; Henry C, the oldest son of Jacob, was born in Mir.den March 20. 1814, 
and died April 21. 1887. He was twice married, and his surviving children are by his 
second wife, Mary Nellis. They are as follows : Emma, wife of Edward S. Van 
Deusen of Fort Plain ; (Charles H. and Herbert, both died in infancy); and James H., 
born in Minden March 7, 1860, married Mngdalena Kloek. He is a graduate of the 
Utica Business College, and also learned telegr.iphy. He was for a short time on the 
Northern Central Railroad, and was also engaged in a general store at Farinington, 
Dakota. He returned to Minden in 1886 and has since been engaged in farming, re- 
siding on the old homestead. He is a Democrat. 

Yost, George, Minden, was a descendant from one of the oldest families of the 
Mohawk valley. He was born in Johnstown, December 6, 1810, and wa.s the oldest 
son in a family of seven children of Nicholas and Esther (Sanimon.*-) Yost. His father 
was a farmer, and he attended the local school of his native town, but becoming by an 
accident crippled, his father determined to give him the advantages of a better educa- 
tion, and at age of seventeen he became a student at Union College, graduating from 
same three years later. He chose tne law as his profession, and after reading with 
Judge Daniel Cady of Johnstown he first practiced at Buflalo, but afterwards formed a 
partnership with Judge Cady, which continued until 1844. Judge Yost in 1846 came 
to Fort Plain, and in company with Judge Jolin Darrow, opened a law office. Some 
two years afterwards Daniel Lobdell becan e a number of the fiim. Judge Darrow, 
on account of ill health, retired from the firm and the partnership was finally dissolved 
in 1855 on account of Mr. Lobdell removing from the place. A Whig, afterwards a 
Republican in politics, Judge Yost in 1854 was elected to the state senate, his oppo- 



236 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY". 

nent being Henry Churchill of Gloveisville. He was made chairman of tlje Judiciary 
Committee, and he was recognized as one of the most erament lawyers of that body. 
He declined a re-election, but in 1863 was elected county judge, and on his retirement 
from that office continued to practice his profession till 1879, when he retired from 
active business, having by his exertions and a successful career accunnilaled a large 
fortune. Judge Y^ost was an active Mason and had conferred upon him all the degrees 
of that order which were given in this country. The judge was known amongst his 
legal brethren and the general public as an honest lawyer, his clients' business being 
looked after as if it were his own. He died February 8, 1888. 

Walrath, Alfonzo, Minden, the only son of Jacob and Elizabeth Walrath, was born 
in Danube, November 1, 1840. His education was obtained at the district schools. 
His father being a farmer, he engaged in agricultural pursuits until twenty years of 
age, when he opened a boot and shoe store at Fort Plain and conducted it one year, 
when ne removed it to Little Falls, remaining two years. Returning to Fort Plain, he 
invented various machines for the manufacture of brooms. He then conimenced to 
manufacture his own inventions, in which business he is at present engaged. He pro- 
duces about two hundred gross of broom ferrules weekly, besides twenty corn buskers 
and twenty hurl cutters annually, and gives employment to ten men. Mr. Walrath is 
a Republican in politics, and has held various town offices. He married Mary E., 
daughter of T. B. Farley of Fort Plain and has six children: Maude, wife of E. C. 
Crane of Utica; Alton A., Jessie, Nettie, Hazel and Mary. Mr. Walrath has always 
been interested in musical matters, and was for fifteen years leader of the Walrath and 
Fort Plain band, and was also for twenty years a leader in church choirs. 

Edick, John, Minden, was born in Minden May 6, 1821. His grandfather, Freder- 
ick Edick, was born in Germany, December 6, 1769. He came when a young man to 
America and first settled at Sand Lake. He located in Montgomery county in 1808, 
settling on a farm which he purchased near Salt SpringviUe in Minden. He married, 
September G, 1791, Getty Smith, who was born September 13, 1773. Their children 
were Katie, born April 19, 1794, died in infancy; Robert, born January 15, 1795, died 
in infancy ; Frederick, born January 5, 1798, died at Lansing, Michigan ; Conrad, born 
February 24, 1799, died in Minden; Betsey, born October 28, 1801 ; John, born June 
6, 1803, died in Newfane, N. Y. ; Caty, born May 16, 1815, married William Campbell 
and died in Orleans county; Margaret, born November 30, 1807, married John Car- 
penter and died at Chicago; Christian, born May 28, 1808, died in infancy; Phoebe 
Maria, born May 24, 1814, died at the age of sixteen; David Erastus, born May 6, 1816, 
died at Fort Plain. Jacob, the oldest surviving son of the above family, and father of 
John J. Edick, was born in Greenbush, July 28, 1796, and died in Minden, December 
27, 1889. He married first Nancy Lambert, who was born July 25, 1798, and died 
June 5, 1823. The only issue of this marriage was John J. He married June 11, 1826, 
for his second wife, Katie Ann Bost. They had seven children, viz. : Margaret, born 
July 31, 1827, wife of Elijah Bush of Cherry Valley ; Pamelia, died aged three years ; 
Menzo, born November 25, 1834, and Andrew Pine, born July 27, 1837, both residents 
of Springfield; Nancy, born August 1, 1832, wife of Alexander Livingston; Ephraim, 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 237 

died^^aged twenty-four years ; and Jacob Adam. The latter lived on the farm now oc- 
cupied by his son, Jacob A., for sixty-five years. John J. Edick married for his first 
wife Elizabeth Countryman, and they had three children : Henry, died aged seven 
years; Alice, wife of John Willis of Richfield Springs; and John, who resides in South 
Dakota. His second wife was Margaret Bronner. He has always been a farmer, and 
is a Republican in politics. 

Smith, Matthew, Minden, was born in Sharon, June 20, 1829. His father, Irdney 
Smith, was also born there, December 20, 1796. He married January 30, 1833, Nancy 
Baur, who was born in Sharon February 17, 1801. They had eight children, viz. : 
Almira, who married Elijah Meny, and died in Canajoharie; Henry, died aged two 
years; Matthew, Jerome, died in Richfield Springs ; Eliza Ann, resides at Salt Spring- 
ville; and Sidney. The latter married for his second wife Jane Knowlton, and they 
had seven children: Harriet, Nancy, Seymour, Preston, Jacob, Laura and William. 
He removed from Sharon to Springfield, and came to Minden in 1833, locatmg on the 
farm now owned by his son, Matthew Smith. He died at Richfield Springs in 18G0. 
Matthew of the above family had only the benefits of a common school education, and 
has always been engaged in farming on his present farm. He has also been interested 
in raising fast roadsters, and is the owner of the well known gelding " Telephone." 
He married for his first wife Nancy Humphrey, and they had two children : Preston, 
who died March 17, 1858; and Rodney, who died February 11, 1861. His second 
wife was Elizabeth Willse, and their children are as follows : Mortimer, born Febru- 
ary 9, 1865, who married Mary Huffnail, by whom he has one child, Mabel Densmore, 
born March 29, 18G6, died IVIay 23, 1874 ; Nancy, born April 9, 1867 ; Mary, born June 
19, 1868 ; Nellie, born August 6, 1869; Almira, born December 9, 1870, wife of Dex- 
ter Bowman of Stark; Lucy, born December 9, 1872, died May 15, 1874; Robert, 
born November 10, 1875); and Addison, born January 25, 1877. 

Wiles, John, Minden, married Magdalen Yerdan, and had the following family : 
Henry L, John, died m Canajoharie ; Margaret, who married Nicholas Hook and died 
in the west; Maria, who married Adam Yerdan and died in Otsego county ; Daniel, 
died m Springfield; Catherine, widow of Henry Yerdan, resides in Minden ; and Jacob 
who died in Minden. Henry I., son of John, was born in Minden, April 18, 1808, and 
married Catherine Dillenbeck. Their children were Margaret, wife of Jeremiah D. 
Moyer of Glen; Lany, widow of Henry Shall, resides in Minden; Adam; Elizabeth, 
wife of Peter Casler of Minden ; George ; Mary, wife of Henry Wallster, of Minden ; 
Lester, resides in Johnstown ; and Julia, wife of Addison Bander, who died in Minden. 
Henry I. died May 1, 1880. George, son of Henry I., was born in Minden July 2, 1843, 
and married for his first wife Helen Nestle, by whom he had one child, Arthur. He 
married for his second wife Mrs. Louisa (Mattise) Wiles. 

Cronkhite, William, Minden, the grandfather of Farley, married for his first wife, 
Maria Smith, and had a family of eight children, viz. : Cornelius, who died in Cicero • 
Hannah, who married John Hahneman, and died in Minden ; George; James, who died 
in Little Falls; Anson and Sheldon, who died at Cedarville ; Minerva, who married 
John Casler, and died in Minden ; Maria, who married Jacob C. Wolcott and died in 



238 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Miaden. William marripd second, Mrs. Maria Van Ness, by whom he had two chil- 
dren : Louisa, who mariied John Parr and died in Canajoharie; and Luraine, who mar- 
ried Thomas Millifran, and died in Minden. George, of the above family, was born in 
Minden, May 9, 1809, and married Pepcry Devendorf. They had four children : Farley; 
James, who died at Central Bridge; Harriet, wife of Hamilton Snell of Minden; and 
George D. George died December 21, 1879. Farley was born in Minden, March 27, 
1837, and married Frances Snell, and their children are Frederick H., a resident of 
Minden; Burton, who died aged seventeen years; and Alice. 

Dygert, George S., Minden. the youngest child and son of Sylvaiius Dygert, was born 
in Minden, July 10, 1810. The other ohiUlren of Sylvanus Dygert were John, who 
died ill Canajoharie ; Adam, who died in Jefferson county ; Warren, died young ; Bet- 
sey, married Peter Dunckle and died in Minden; Delia, married Peter Garlock and 
died West; George S., mairied Lucy Ann Dunckle December 25, 1834. She was born 
in Minden, November 7, 1814. Their children were William H., born December 15 
1836, died aged three raontlis ; James H., born November 15, 1839, lived in Canajo- 
harie ; Edward, born August 2, 1842, unmarried, resides in Minden; Anna, born July 
13, 1849, wife of Alphonzn Green of Minden; and Alvm and Albert (twins) born May 
7, 18)1 ; the latter die<l at the age of twenty-two years. The former married Eva E. 
Bellinger, and their children are Kenneth, died aged ten months, and Leo, born June 
16, 1891. Alvin is a resident of .Minden, a Democrat in politics, and has been for the 
past three years inspector of elections. 

Witter, John Jacob. Minden, was born in Brooklyn, Conn., December 6, 1842, and is 
the only son in a family of three children of John and Mary A. (Bradford) Witter. 
His mother was a lineal descendant of Governor Bradford, colonial governor of Massa- 
chusetts. After atiending the local schools, he fitted for college at the Munson Acad- 
emy. Graduating in 1859 lie accepted the position of principal of the public school at 
Putnam, Conn., but owing to ill health was obliged to resign. He then opened a select 
school in the same place, which he closed, and also had to abandon the idea of a college 
education on account of entering the United States Navy. He was attached to the U. 
S. steamer F'>rt Henry as an apothecary, when she was part of the east gun squadron. 
He was afterwards tran.-feried to the U. S. steamer Nyack of the Pacific squadron, 
serving as yeoman. He was di.scharged from the U. S. service in 1876 and returned to 
his na:ive town ; on account of his ill health he came to the Adirondack regions of New 
York state, remaining about two years. He then accepted a situation as teacher in 
Clay, Onondaga county, where, after teaching one term, he came to Starksville, Otsego 
county, where he taught three terms. He came to Fort Plain in 1872 as principal of 
the public schools of the village, and after twelve and a half consecutive years, resigned, 
for the purpose of traveling on the road as a salesman for the Fort Plain Glove and 
Mitten Company, an indiKliy he was largely interested in as partner. After traveling 
five years, at the urgent solicitation of the school board of Fort Plain, he again became 
principal of the public school, which position he now holds. In politics a Democrat, he 
has never been an aspirant to political honors. He married Sarah, daughter of the late 
Dr. Uriah Potter. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 239 

Potter, Uriah, Minden, was born in Salisbury, Herkimer county, January 11, 1806, 
and was the oldest son in a family of five children of John and Dorcas (Seikles) Potter. 
After attending the local schools he went to Fairfield Academy, and afterwards studied 
medicine with Dr. Holmes of Indian Castle. He commenced the practice of medicine at 
Hallsville, in 1832, where he continued till 18G2, when he remoyed to Fort Plain. 
During the war he was surgeon of the board of enrollment stationed at Schenectady. 
He was a member of the Montgomery Medical Society, and was a Republican in poli- 
tics. He married Mary, daughter of Jacob Coofman of Minden, and they had seven 
■children : Kate, wife of Martin Van Derveer of Richfield Springs ; Emily, resides in 
Fort Plain; Darwin, a physician of Rochester; Sarah, wife of John J. Witter of Fort 
Plain; Bradford, who died in Fort Plain ; Mary, wife of Arthur M. Williams of Fort 
Plain ; and Marlton, a resident of Fort Plain. Dr. Potter died December 16, 1869. 

Sneck, George, Minden, was born in Minden, November 25. 1825. His father, 
Frederick Sneck, was born May 2, 1799, and married Elizabeth Wiles. She was born 
May 3, 1798. The children by this marriage, beside George, were John, a resident of 
Minden; Catharine, who married Cornelius Ca.^ler, and died in Minden; Betsey, wife 
of Englehardt Wagner of Minden ; Ann, wife of Adam Yorden of Sharon ; Lany, wife 
of George Countryman of Canajoharie; and Maria, wife of Peter Gesler, died in Min- 
den. Frederick died at Sharon, January 30, 1890, his wife on February 6, 1887. 
George Sneck married, January 20, 1848, Catharine, daughter of George Hess. Their 
children were : Anson, born December 30, 1850, died September 17, 1868; Mary Fran- 
cis, born March 27, 1855, died February 3, 1858; and Alice, born Augu.st 9, 1867, wife 
of John A. Shinnaman of Utica. George Sneck died October 14. 1883. He learned 
the blacksmith trade from his father and his uncle, Jake Sneck, which trade he fol- 
lowed till 1859, when he engaged in farming, which he carried on up to the time of his 
death. 

Hall, George W., Glen, was born in Glen, February 3, 1854. He was one of eight 
children of Court and Sarah (Fornicrook) Hall, the others being Mount, Philip, Luther 
(deceased), Garrett, Mary, wife of Oscar Nesberg, Alice, and Martha (deceased). Court 
Hall, the father, was one of five children of Cornelius Hall of Glen, the others being 
Cornelius, Luther, Veeder and Ann, wife of Garry Yates. Sarah Fornicrook was born 
in the town of Florida, one of six children ; the others being Philip, Henry, Charles 
Rachel, wife of Henry Snyder, Hannah, wife of Elijah Disbrow. George W. Hal! 
married, December 27, 1877, Lottie F. Bunn, daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Freeman) 
Bunn of Florida, she having one brother, Charles Bunn. Mr. and Mis. Hal! have two 
children, Ella W. and John D. B. Hal!. 

Schuyler Peter V., Glen, one of two children of William T. and Ida C. (Van Evera) 
Schuyler, was born in Glen July 28, 1855. The sister of Mr. Scliuyler was Louisa, wife 
of Henry C. Storey. William T., the father, was born in Glen, and was one of five 
children of Jacob and Mary (Serviss) Schuyler; the others being George, Jacob, James, 
and one sister (Mrs. Stephen Ostrom, who died many years ago). Ida (Van Evera) 
Schuyler, the mother, a native of Root, was one of nine children of Peter and Nancy 
(Leonardson) Van Evera, the others being John P., James P., Elizabeth E., widow of 



240 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Jacob H. Starin, Peter, Jane Ann, wife of J. J. Van Derveer, Charles S., Millar D. F., 
and one sister who died in childhood. Jacob Schuyler, the grandfather, was born in 
Holland, and emigrated to this country in early life, settling in Glen, where he married 
Mary Serviss. Peter V. Schuyler married Eve Anna, one of seven children of Robert 
and Sarah (Vrooman) Wemple. (See sketch of Robert Wemple). They have two 
children, William T. and Henry S. 

Hudson, Mrs. Emma (Van Buren), widow of Boyd R. Hudson, Glen, was born in 
Glen and is a daughter of Peter P. and Rachel Maria (Enders) Van Buren ; he being 
born in Glen and one of seven children of Cornelius Van Buren, who was a native of 
Otsego county. She was married May 6, 1SG3. to Boyd R. Hudson, who died in Feb- 
ruary, 1891. They had three children : Agnes B. (Mrs. Dewitt Devendorf) dead, Van 
B. and Emma A. Hudson. Richard, the father of Boyd R. Hudson, was born in New- 
burgh, his wife, Abigail Wood, having been born in Root. His grandfather was also 
Richard Hudson ; he was a soldier in the Revolutionary army and was stationed at 
Fort Montgomery (some six miles below West Point) when it was attacked by the 
British in 1777 ; he escaped across the river in the night upon the great iron chain 
stretched across it. 

Mabee, Peter H., Glen, was born on the old Mabee homestead on Schoharie creek in 
the town of Glen, June 15, 1838. He was one of four children of Harmanus and 
Maria (Newkirk) Mabee of Glen, the others being Abram Mabee, Elinor (Mrs. John 
K. Van Home), dead, and Mary (Mr.s. Benjamin A. Faulkner of Glen). His grand- 
father, Peter H. Mabee, was born in Glen. His great-grandfather, Harmanus Ma- 
bee, also lived in the town. The farm on which Peter H. Mabee has always lived 
is a portion of the original Mabee patent of 1,000 acres. Mr. Mabee has in his 
pos.session many interesting relics of the early days in the valley, among them be- 
ing five parlor chairs, which were the property of William Johnson, which were a 
portion of his effects confiscated and sold. They were purchased by Mr. Mabee'a 
great-grandfather Garrison, and have since been handed down from one generation to 
another in the family. 

Van Epps, William, Glen, one of two children of Jacob and Isabella (Bennett) 
Van Epps, was born in Glen October 23, 1855; the other child was Evert Van Epps. 
Jacob, the father, was born in Glen and was one of seven children of John E. Van 
Epps; his wife was one of ten children of William and Elma (Strong) Bennett of 
Diianesburg; his father being Colonel Bennett ; Solomon Strong being her grandfather 
on the mother's side. Jacob Van Epps was born in Glen January 8, 1822, and died 
in Fultonville August 21, 1888. William Van Epps was married October 15, 1882, 
to Anna Gertrude Martin, a daughter of Barney J. and Rebecca (Schenck) Martin 
of Fonda. They have one son, William Leland Van Epps. They moved from Glen 
to Fultonville, where they now reside, in 1889. Mr. Van Epps is poormaster of the 
town. 

Ostrom, David J., Glen, was born on the family homestead in Glen May 30, 1854. 
He was one of eight children of Stephen and Anna Maria (Edwards) Ostrom of 
Glen, the others being Stephen, Anna M. ( Mrs. Richard Winnie ), Elizabeth (Mrs. 



FAAIILY SKETCHES 241 

Walter B. Cross ), Minnie ( Mrs. W. H. Baird ), Ella L. ( Mrs. J. H. Nellis ), and Mar^ 
garetta ( dead ). His mother was one of seven children of John Edwards of Glen, 
He was married September 20, 1876, to Mary, only child of Everett and Ann 
(Sehuser) Van Epps of Glen. Her grandfather, John E. Van Epp?, was born in 
Glen, as also was his wife, Elizabeth (Vedder) Van Bpps. Her great-grandfather 
was Evert Van Epps, and his father, John Van Epps, came from Holland and settled 
here. David J. and wife have two children, Victoria and Earl Ostrom. 

Wemple, William H., Glen, was born January 12, 1838; he being one of six 
children of William B. and Rebecca (Yates) Wemple of Fultonville. He was mar- 
ried September 10, 1867, to Anna, daughter of Rev. Abram Diefendorf. They have 
had three children, two of whom. Lulu and Charles Yates, died in childhood, and 
Harry Diefendorf, who was born March 21, 1872, and who lives at home being em- 
ployed in the office of the foundry. William H. entered the foundry business in 
1863 with his father and has continued in it until the present time, the business being 
now carried on under the firm name of William B. Wemple's Sons. Mr. Wemple has 
served the town as town clerk, and as supervisor for two terms. 

Edwards, Edward, Glen, was born in Glen February 10, 1850. He was one of 
four children of John V. S. and Mary M. (Hosford) Edwards, the others being J. 
S. Glen, Geddes H., and Mary (Mrs. George AbelJ. Edward Edwards was married 
October 17, 1883, to Emma Devendorf, one of six children of Henry A. and Rachel 
(Pettengill) Devendorf of Florida; the others being Nettie (Mrs. Willard Selmser) 
Mary (Mrs. C. B. Meduig), Jay Dewitt and Milton Devendorf. Tliey have one daugh- 
ter living, Julia Aiitoinette, another daughter having died in childhood. 

Galbraith, Frank F., Glen, was born in Richmond, Bast Canada, April 12, 1865. His 
parents moved to Massachusetts when he was a child. He has always been connected 
with railroad business as telegraph operator and station agent, having been located for 
several years at St. Johnsville, also at Gloversville, and for four years at his present lo- 
cation at Auriesville Station on the West Shore road. He was married in 1886 to 
Margaret Burr, daughter of Lucius F. and Margaret (McDonald) Binr of Johnstown. 
They have two children, Mary E. and Harry T. Galbraith. 

Peddie, William J., M. D., Glen, one of three children of Daniel W. and Mary (Bar- 
ker) Peddle, was born at Broadalbin January 7, 1858 ; the other children were: Charles 
Peddie of the firm of Leggett & Peddie of Glens Falls, and Ella J., wife of George 
Nash of Albany. His grandfather, James Peddie, was born in Perth, Scotland, whence 
he emigrated, settling on the place where his grandson, William J., was born. William 
J. married first on April 16, 1883, Ella Gardner, who died leaving one child, Bertram 
Peddie. He married second, January 26, 1887, Carrie, daughter of Jolin D. and Sarah 
Mclntyre of Perth. They have two children living, Mclntyre and Edith V. Dr. Ped- 
die was educated in the Broadalbin Free school, the Amsterdam Academy, and under 
the preceptorship of Dr. Van Deveer of the Albany Medical College, from which he 
graduated March 2, 1882. Since that time he has been engaged in the active practice 
of his profession in Fultonville and Glen, 



C42 HISTORT OF MOXTGOMEBT COUyTT. 

Abel, Andrew S.. Glen, was bom in Glen on the Abel homestead September 12. 1S23. 
and died March 20, 1892. He was one of nine children of Philip Abel of Glen and 
Catharine (Conover) Abel of Charleston, the others being: Abram. ifarr Ann (Mrs;. 
John CInte), Sarah (Mrs. Henrv Riekardp, Elizabeth (Mrs. A. C. Ricfcard). all deceased; 
and Malina (Mrs. William Baird). Margaret (Mrs. A. C. Rickard). Catharine (Mrs. D. F. 
Hewitt), and Jane Abel. Andrew S. Abel married, October o. 1S4S. Jemima, one of sii 
•children of John and Anna (Van Antwerp) Groat of FuItonTille. the others being Ger- 
trude, Rebecca (Mrs. David Brower), Margaret, Eliza (Mrs. Barnej Gardinien. and Jane 
(Mrs. F. J. Starin). They had three children. Anna M., AbeL and Gertrude Alida : the 
latter died in childhood. 

Gardenier, Barney, Fnltonville, was born in Glen September 5, ISlo. and was one of 
two children of Nicholas S. and Ellen ( Schenck) (Gardenier : his brother, Samuel, is a 
resident of Rock county. 111. Samuel, the grandfather, came from Holland m early life. 
He was a soldier in the revolutionaiy army and was wounded at the battle of Oriskany, 
being shot by two Indians as he was standing behind a tree. The bullets were e3rtracted 
and he lived for several years. His brother. Captain Jacob Gardenier. was killed in tha' 
battle. Mr. Gardenier is living with his fourth wife, who was Elizabeth Wiley of Fort 
Plain. They have one daughter, Lelah, who lives with them. He has five other chil- 
dren living: Edward, in Columbia county ; Leonard and William in Texas: Josephine 
(MrSw George A. Kisselberg) of Colunibia county ; and Martha (Mrs. Levi A. Starin) of 
Glen. Mr. Gardenier has always lived tn Ibis town, and has been for fifty-two years 
on the place where he now lives. 

Wemple, Robert, Fultonville, one of seven children of David and Evaline (Lotridge) 
Wemple of Mohawk, was bom January 2S, 1S31. The other children were: Barney 
of Mohawk. Dow of Glen, William of Mohawk, Sarah (MiSw Alonzo Schuyler), Anna 
(Mrs. G. H. Mount) of Fultonville, acd Mary, His grandfather, Dow Wemple, was 
also born in Mohawk. Mr. Wemple married. February 18, 184S, Sarah, one of twelve 
children of Volkert and Mariah (Smith) Vrooman of Mohawk. They have seven chil- 
dren; Adam Z. of Glen, Mary C. (Mrs. S. Qnackenbosh). H. Seymour of Fort Plain, 
Gertrude (Mrs. Ezra Sare) of Johnstown. Eve Ann (Mis, Peter Schuyler) of Fulton- 
vtUe, Sarah ( Mrs. Edward Reyn) of Ftiltonville. and Marshall F. of Gloversville. In 
1869 Robert Wemple moved to Glen, bought the county poor-farm, which he conducted 
for sixteen years, and in ISS5 retired, moving to Ftiltonvilte, where he now resides. Mr. 
We:nple has served two terms in the legislature as member of assemUy, and is at the 
present time president of the village. 

Vedder. Francis B., Fultonville. one of four children of David F. and Mary E. (Shelp) 
Vedder of Gten. was bom February 29, 1860. The other children were John J_ Anna 
Maria, and Xelson D. (deceased). His father, David, was born on the Vedder home- 
stead, as also was his grandfather. Francis B. Vedder. His great-gracdfather, Jcho. 
came to Glen from Schenectady in early life, and settled on the farm where David F. 
and John now live. Francis B. married. May 28, 1879, Margaret Elizabeth, daughtw 
of Jacot) and Margaret Elizabeth (.Devendorf) Bellinger of St. Johnsville. Philip Be!- 
linser, her grandfather, was a native of Minden. They have two children, Charles 
David, and Marv 2s. Vedder. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 243 

Tedder, David F., PultonTille. was born May 12, 1S35, on the homestead in Glen, 
and is one of six children of Francis B. and Maria (Xewkirk) Tedder. Francis B. was 
also born on the homestead in Glen : his wife, Maria, being a native of Florida. The 
other children were ; John. Francis F., Jasper, Eliza ^ Mrs. John F. Devendorf ), and 
Maria (Mrs. James P. Tan Evera). John Tedder, the grandfather, came from Schenec- 
tadr in early life, and settled on the farm, his wife being Eve Tedcier. Maria, mother 
of David F., was a daughter of Cornelius and Margaret Newfcirk of Florida. David F. 
Tedder was first married February 16, 1S59, to Mary R Shelp, daughter of Nelson and 
Elirabeth (Mount) Shelp of Glen. She died leaving four children : Francis B., John 
J., Anna Maria ai;d Nelson D. (deceased). He married second, on November 7, ISSS, 
Jane Ann, daughter of Garrett G. and Rebecca ( Tan Techten Mount ) Lansing of 
Charleston. 

Haggart, George S., Fultonville. was born in Fonda June t>, 1563, being one of eight 
children of George S. and Elizabeth (Abranis) Haggart. The others were Alexander 
S., Jost W.. Delo. Libbie (Mrs. John Tenn). Mabel (\[rs. William Buss) Carrie B., and 
Sadie (deceased). His grandfather, Alexander Hagsart. was born in Mohawk. His 
great-grandfather came from Scotland. Our subject was married, August 14, ISS". to 
Hattie M. Pulver of Glen, one of seven children of John Pulver. Mr. and Mrs. Hag- 
gart have two children, Raymond S. and Sadie. Mr. Haggart has for several years been 
in business in Fonda, but moved to Fultonville in 1S91, where he is doing a successful 
grocery and provision business. 

Abel. George J.. Glen, one of six children of Abram and Margaret Ann (Hall) Al>el 
of Glen, was born February 15, ISol. The others were: Peter and Eugene, deceased; 
and Philip, Anna, and Maria (widow of Mr. Irish). Abram Abel, the father, was one 
of nine children of Philip and Catharine (Conover) Abel of Glen. The others were 
as follows : Andrew, Elizabeth (Mrs. Alexander Rickard), both deceased : Mary Ann 
(Mrs. John Clute). Dorotny (Mrs. William Baird). Sarah (Mrs. Henry Rickard), Mar- 
garet (Mrs. Alexander Rickard), Catharine (Mrs. Daniel Hewitt), and Jane Abel. Mar- 
garet Ann (Hall), the mother, was one of two children of Peter and Hannah (Tan 
Home) Hall of Glen, her brother, Cornelius being deceased. Hannah was a daughter 
of Cornelius Tan Home. George J. Abel married December 2, 1S91. Mary, daughter 
of John T. S. and Mary M. (Hosford) Edwards of Glen. 

Wendell. Willis. Amsterdam, was born in the ciiy of Amsterdam and was educated 
in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. He is one of Amsterdam's thorough 
business men with his drug store and storage house. He married Elizabeth, only daugh- 
ter of Henry and Elizabeth Herrick of this city. They have two children, both sons. 
Henry H. and Willis, jr. Mr. Wendell's father, Harmon, was born at Frey's Bush on the 
19th of February. 1835. and was educated in the public schools, followed by academic 
instruction. Coming to this city when a young man. he entered a drug store as clerk, 
afterwards became a partner, then sole proprietor. For some years before his death, 
he manufactured knit goods in partnership with Oscar F. Nelson, under the firm of 
Nelson & Wendell. In the drug business he took in as partners, Austin and Becker, 
the firm for some years being Wendell i Becker. On the 23d of Septeml)er, lSo7, be 



244 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

married Almira M., fourth daughter of Joseph L. and Dehlah Mosher 'of Duanesburg. 
They had two children, both sons: Frank M., who died at the age of nineteen, and 
Willis. Harmon Wendell died on the 28th of July, 1880, aged about forty-five years. 

Bartlett, Dudley S., Amsterdam, was born in Galway on the 27th of June, 1824, 
and when quite young came with his parents to West Galway, and afterwards to 
Johnstown. He waseducated in the public schools and old Johnstown Academy and 
came to Amsterdam in the year 1864. On the 22d of December, 1852, he married 
Mary Ann McClew of Minaville. They have three children, Frank, Willis M. and 
Josiah. Frank married Anna M. GrifSth of the town of Florida. They have one 
son, Gardner. They reside in Pittsfield, Mass. Willis M. is a teller in the First Na- 
tional Bank of Amsterdam. Josiah is a painter and resides at home. Mr. Bartlett's 
father, Martin, was born in West Galway on the 12th of January, 1790, and married 
Abigail Smith of Charlton. They had s^ix children, three sons and three daughters: 
Josiah, Backus L., Dudley S., Elizabeth, Laura and Mary A. Mr. Bartlett's grand- 
father, Josiah, was born in Connecticut, and some of the ancestors were in the early 
wars. They are of English, Welsh and Scotch extraction. 

Young, Luther H., Amsterdam, was born on the 9th of September, 1846, in Cana- 
joharie, and was educated in the public schools and Eastman's Business College. He 
began business with a Mr. Huntley in 1867 under the firm of Huntley & Young, a 
general dry goods establishment. In 1884 he sold out his interest and for four years 
was engaged in several enterprises. In 1884 he formed a copartnership with John R. 
Striker in a general dry goods business, under the firm of Young & Striker, which is 
continued until this day. Mr. Young's father, Luther, was born in Fonda on the 9th of 
August, 1802. He was educated in the public schools and in his early life he was a 
•carpenter and builder, but the best part of his life he was a farmer. For thirteen 
years he resided in Canajoharie, and returned to Tribes Hill where he spent the bal- 
ance of his days. On the 1st of January, 1835, he married Nancy Briggs of Johns- 
town. They had five children, two sons and three daughters : Elisha, who died in 
January, 1882; Elizabeth A., died in January, 1878; Sarah L., Deborah, and Luther 
H. His father died at Tribes Hill on the 12th of April, 1876, and his mother in Sep- 
tember, 1859. 

Wessells, Dr. Silas A,, Canajoharie, was born m Cherry Valley on the 10th of June, 
1851, a son of R. L. and Anna Horning Wessells, natives of Otsego county, the father 
of Dutch and the mother of German origin. Both families were among the early 
settlers of that county. Dr. Wessells was educated in the schools of his native town, 
at Ames Academy and at Cazenovia Seminary. He studied medicine with Dr. A. J. 
Smith of Ames, and attended lectures at Ann Arbor, Mich., where he graduated in 
1878. He immediately entered upon the practice of his profession at Argusville, 
thence to Ames, and soon came to Canajoharie, where he has enjoyed an extensive 
and lucrative practice, and he is now one of the leading physicians of the county. 
He is a member of the Medical Society of the county, a Masou and a member of the 
Order of Red Men ; he is a Democrat and has been coroner tor one term. In the 
ye*r 1878 he married Alzina Snyder of Ames, a daughter of Nathan M. Snyder, a 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 245 

farmer and a descendant of an early settler of the county. They have two children, 
Hattie B. and Amy Maud. 

Rowe, John H., Amisterdara, was born in Columbia county, on the 10th of May, 
1842, and came with his parents to Schenectady county when he was eight years 
old. He was educated in the public schools and was a farmer by occupation. On the 
1st day of September, 18G9, he married Harriet, only daughter of Abrara and Mrs. 
Maria (James) Jennings De Graft". They had one daughter, a dutiful and accomplished 
young lady, who died January 23, 1889, aged eighteen years. Mr. Rowe's father, 
Elisha, was born at the old home in 1818, and married Lenna Link of his native place. 
They had two children, John H. and Eva C. Mrs. Rowe's father was born in Am- 
sterdam, and married Mrs. Maria Jennings. They had one daughter. Her people 
were in the early and late w ars. 

Benn, Francis E., Amsterdam, was born on the 18th of November, 1849, at Haga- 
man's Mills, and was educated in the public schools of that place and was employed in 
the mills several years. For the past fifteen years he has been overseer of one of the 
departments in Stephen Sanford & Son's carpet factory. On the 24th of Decem- 
ber, 1868, he married Martha L. McGarry of Glenville. They have had three chil- 
dren, one son and two daughters. Orrin E. died when he was three years and six 
months old, the daughters survive: Jennie M. and Hettie. The name of Benn is very 
rarely seen, but is of English origin. 

Schuyler, Jacob, Amsterdam, the son of Jeremiah Schuyler, was born in Florida on 
the 15th of November, 1828, and was educated in the district schools of his town. He 
resided at home until he was twenty-two years old, and then came to Port Jackson 
(now Fifth ward). He was interested in the FuUonville Canal Line four years, and 
then bought a farm, following farming for four years, sold it, but bought one in 
Schenectady county, which he owned four years, working it himself one year. He 
came back to the old camping grounds and for three years owned the store house and 
grocery business. For seven years he went to Canada as a cattle drover and was fore- 
man for nine years for the Schuyler & Bloods Mills. About the year 1885 he became 
a resident of Amsterdam, and now conducts a harness and carriage repository on Divi- 
sion street. At Christmas, 1849, he married Maria, second daughter of Simon and Anna 
Mabee. They have two daughters, Emma 8. and Anna. 

Brown, George, Amsterdam, was born ui Ireland on the 16th of May, 1841, and 
came with his parents to the United States when he was four years old. They located 
in Gloversville, and he was educated in the public schools and'was a leather dresser by 
occupation. In October, 1861, he enlisted from Johnstown into Company E, Black 
Horse Cavalry, N. Y. S. Volunteers, which disbanded m 1862. On the 22d of August, 
1863, he re-enlisted in Company H, Thirteenth N. Y. Artillery, and was wounded and 
taken prisoner and confined in Libbey Prison. He was honorably discharged at Nor- 
folk on the 21st of June, 1865. On the 26th of October, 1865, he married Mary Radley 
of Amsterdam. They have six children, four sous and two daughters, namely : John 
H., Timothy F., Thomas, Ellen, Catlierine and Edward G. The family came to reside 
in Amsterdam in August, 1884. 



246 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Chrisman, Charles C, Amsterdam, was born in Gray, Herkimer county, on the 9th 
of June, 1854, and was educated in the public schools. He has a good business educa- 
tion and ever since he attained his majority he has been a hotel keeper. He has lived 
in several western states for some years, also at Tribes Hill three years. In the year 
1878 he married Anna, only daughter of Reuben S. and Harriet Quilhott of the city of 
Amsterdam. Her father, Reuben S. Quilhott, was a soldier in the Mexican war and 
of the late Rebellion. 

Lyfort, Seymour, Amsterdam, was born in Edinburgh, Saratoga county, and educated 
in the public schools ; he was a carpenter by occupation. February 28, 1888, he married 
Jennie, oldest daughter of Jonas and Martha Rivensburg of Fort Johnson, where they 
now reside. Mr. Lyfort's father, Alonzo, was born March 28. 1825, in Vermont and 
came to this State with his father and mother when a young man; he married Amanda 
Soribner, by whom he had six children, four sons and two daughters : Martha, William, 
Frederick, Anna, Arthur, and Seymour. 

Potter, George W., Amsterdam, was born on the 3d of July, 1845, in Montgomery 
county and moved with his parents to Charleston Four Corners and from thence to 
S oansville. He attended the public schools there, also Carlisle Seminary, Eastman's 
Business College at Poughkeepsie and Albany High School. For the past fifteen years 
he has been interested in the knit goods business and knit goods on commission both 
here and in New York. On the 15th of June, 1878, he married Addie L. Taft of New 
Haven. They have three children, two sons and one daughter: Harold T., Gladys and 
Guy. Mr. Potter's father, Edward E., was born in Albany, and married Fannie M. 
Van Dcrveer of Charleston. They had seven children, as follows : George W., Noah- 
diah S., Caroline S., Edward S., jr., Emma, John S., and Isaac F. 

Patterson, Alexander M., Amsterdam, was bom in Florida February 22, 1883. and 
was educated in tlie common schools of that town. In early life he was a farmer, after- 
wards a merchant, in fact he has had a variety of occupations and is now a contractor. 
In April, 1860, he married Jane Van Epps of Glenville, and they had two sons, Isaac 
F., and John D. Mr. Patterson's father, Seeley, was born in Duanesburg ; he married 
Adeline Montgomery of Florida, by whom he had five children : Alexander M., William 
H., Clara, Emeline, and Frances. His grandfather, William, was in the war of 1812 
and the great-giandfather came from the old world at an early day. Both sons are 
farmers. Mrs. Patterson died June 15, 1889, mourned by her family and friends. 

Selmser, Jacob, Amsterdam, was born in the town of Perth October 7, 1823 ; he was 
educated in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. In early life he was a farmer, 
and merchant-miller, and lived in Seneca county twenty-eight years. September 30, 
1857, he married Catherine, oldest daughter of Daniel and Jane Moore of the town of 
Mohawk. Mr. Selmser's father. Martin, was born in Johnstown : he married Susan 
Moore, by whom he had twelve children, five sons and seven daughters: John, Henry, 
Godfrey, David, and Jacob, Mary, Susan, Elizabeth, Laney, Catherine, Margaret, and 
Sarah. The ancestry of the family on both sides is Dutch. Mr. Selmser is now a bvuld- 
er in this city. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. -J-i" 

Windbiel, John, Amsterdam, w.is born in Baden, Germany. May 25, 1S4-1; he -svas 
educated in the public schools and came to the United States in 1S64, first locating at 
Rondout, from thence he went to New York where he remained three years when he 
came to Amsterdam. April 20, 1S6S, he married Mary Hopmeir of this city ; tliey 
have had nine children : Mary, Thomas, George. Edward, John J.. Lena, Lauretta, Mat- 
tie, and John P. All the children are dead except Thomas, Lauretta, and John P. The 
family are all members of St Joseph's Roman Catholic church. 

Lindsay. Richard, Amsterdatri, was born in Ireland November 20, 1847, and came 
with his parents to the United States when he was three years old. His grandfather 
had returned from the United States to Ireland and had often expressed a wish to come 
back, but never did : his son William however did and located with his little family in 
West Galway, but afterwards came to Amsterdam. Richard was educated in the public 
schools: he conducted a grocery business, has been assessor six years, and is a member 
of the Knights of Pythias. September 25. 1S78. he married Mary E. Firth of Elraira. 
They have six children, all sons: Albert 0.. Frederick C. Ernest R.. Elmer J., Clarence 
B . and David W. 

Kurlbaum, Ernest. Amsterdam, was born in the city of Minden in Germany, May 
14, ] 839, where he was educated. In 1 S65 he came to the United States and after land- 
ing in Xew York came to Amsterdam. November 26, 1865, he married Louisa Erah 
of his native place. They have five children, three sons and two daughters: Ernest 
H., Louisa C, Anna A., William L., and Frederick R. For several years he worked at 
various occupations. About 1887 he bought the old building on Market street, which 
was torn down and upon the site he built the Central hotel , which he completed in 
1888. Ernest H., the oldest son, is his father's assistant in its management ; he married 
Emma S. Niles of this city June 1, 1892. 

Clizbee, Samuel J., Amsterdam, was born on the old homestead in the town of Am- 
sterdam, February 1, 1831. In the process of time another farm was added to the 
original purchase, upon this part. Mr. Clizbee is tlie owner and has resided upon it 
since he was ten years old ; he received a common school and academic education. 
December IS, 1860, he married Mary A., daughter of Lewis Chamberlin of Jersey City ; 
she was formerly of Glenville; they have had four childreu, three daughters and one 
son : Ida M., who married William Hugo of this city ; Clara, Electa, and George H. 
reside at home with their father. Mrs. Clizbee died September 4, 1889, His father, 
Darius, was bom in New Jersey, November 8, 1789, and came with his parents to this 
town in the year 1798. May 26, 1812, he married Mary Jones of Amsterdam, by whom 
he had seven children, four sons and three daughters ; Marcus W., Hannah M., Cyrus, 
WiUiam, Louisa J., Charlotte and Samuel J. Mr. CUzbee's father. Darius, was in the 
war of 1812. The ancestry of the family is Welsh on both sides. 

Khne, Charles, Amsterdam, was born at Tribes Hill, and was educated in the public 
schools, but in early life he was a farmer. On the 23d of July, 1862, be enlisted in 
Company D, One Hundred Fifteenth New York State Volunteers. At the time the 
company was organized he was made third sergeant, afterwards orderly sergeant, sec- 
ond lieutenant, and was discharged as first lieutenant on the 7th of July, 1865. He 



24S HISTORY OF MOXTGOMERT COUNTY. 

was a paroled prisoner of war from September 15 to until November 19. On Septem- 
ber 29, 186-1. he was wounded in the riglit arm in an assault on Fort Gilmer, north side 
of the James river. His arm was amputated on the field and he was taken to Hampton 
Hospital. In January. ISCo. he returned to his regiment and served the balance of the 
time with one arm. He h;is married twice, first January 1. 1868. to Louisa A., daugh- 
ter of Stephen and Eniogene "Whiting of Albany county. They had one son who died 
aged seven. Mrs. Kline died February 14, 1870. On the 20th of November, 1872, 
he married Esther, oldest daughter of William D. and Mary Heath. They had 
seven children, four sons and three daughters: Alida S., Carrie H., Charles S.. Walter 
R., William A., Emily D. and John W. Mr. Klme's father was born at the old home 
and married Alida Putnian of Tribes Hill. They had eight children : John H., William, 
Nicholas;, Maria, Sarah, Charles, Jane and Elizabeth. Mr. Kline is now the chief of 
poHce of Amsterdam. 

Birch, Seymour, Amsterdam, was born on the 22d of December. 1842, in the town 
of Amsterdam two miles north of the city and was educated in the public schools and 
graduated from Amsterdam Academy. He spent one year at Union College, which 
he left to assist his father in the lumber business and at the age of twenty-one he 
became a partner. In 1865 his brother Joseph P. returned from the war and took his 
father's interest in the concern, which was conducted by them until 1870, when Sey- 
mour sold his interest to his brother. He was in the knit goods business three years, 
and formed a copartnership with George H. Munson in insurance and real estate busi- 
ness which continued until 1880. From then until now Mr. Birch has conducted the 
bu.<iness in his own behalf. He enlisied in Company G, Seventy-Seventh New York 
State Volunteers, and in 1863 was honorably discharged. On the IGth of October, 
1868, he married Mary E. Munson of this city, by whom he had three children : 
one daughter, Grace, died in infancy ; John W. died at the age of eleven years; Mary 
M. resides with her parents and is being educated. His father, Alfred Birch, was born 
at Clifton Park, Saratoga county. In 1802 he married Margaret Peters of his native 
place. They had eleven children and at this date, 1892, ten children are living. The 
ancestry of the family is English. Scotch and Welsh. 

Van Derveer, George G., Amsterdam, was born in Florida, on the 28th of March, 
1840, and was educated in the district schools and Amsterdam Academy. He is one 
of the county's intelligent farmers and is a prominent granger. He is much inter- 
ested in improving live stock, especially good horses. On the 18th of October, 
1876, he married Belle, only daughter of John and Nancy McCann of Macedon, 
Wayne county. They had one son, namely, George M., one of the brightest boys 
of the time, who died at the age of nine years of diphtheria. He was mourned 
by the whole community. Mr. Van Deveer's father, Garrett B., was born just 
south of where his son George G. now resides in Florida in 1798. He was 
educated in the common schools of his day and was a farmer by occupation ; 
" his word was his bond " and he was " read and known of all men " as a good 
neighbor and a true friend. In 1829, he married Mary, daughter of Peter A. and 
Sarah (Serviss) Young of his native town. They had eight children, five sons and 
three daughters: one son, Henry, died when he was an infant; eight survived: 



FAMILY SKETCHES 243' 

Peter Y., Catherine, Sarah A., Jane, John, Tunis, W. Spencer and George G. Mr. 
Van Derveer's mother's father, Peter P. Young was a member of the legislature sev- 
eral terms and at all times identified in church matters. The family on both sides 
were soldiers in the war of the Revolution and in the war of 1812. 

Francisco, Albert, Amsterdam, was born on the 26th of June, 1848, in Minden. 
When a year old he moved with his parents to Florida and was educated in the pub- 
lic schools and at the Little Falls Seminary and Fort Edward Academy. In the year 
1880 they came to Amsterdam and are conducting a grocery and fresh meat business. 
He has been married twice, first in the year 1872 to Henrietta Steen of Florida. They 
had two children, both of whom died in infancy. Mrs. Francisco died in October, 
1873. On the 14th of January, 1875, he married Sarah A., third daughter of Peter 
and Martha M. Williams of Florida, by whom he had three children, two daughters and 
one son : Emma S., Charles H. and Ellen M. Mr. Francisco's father, Isaac, was born 
in Florida in March, 1820, and married Charity Berzee of his native town. They had 
three sons : Anderson R, Charles 0. and Albert. His grandfather, Rufus, was in the 
war of 1812 and one of his brothers was shot by a tory. 

Filton, Charles H., Amsterdam, was born in Gilman, New Hampshire, on the 25th 
of April, 1835, and came with his parents to Bangor, Maine, at the age of seven where 
he received a common school and academic education. He first began the study of 
dentistry at Stillwater, Wisconsin, and still further with his old preceptor in Mexico, 
Oswego county, and completed his studies with three coiirses in Boston. In 1SG5 he 
began to practice at Camden, and on the 2fith of June, 1866, he located at Am.sterdam. 
He has been married twice, first in January, 1857, to Maria, third daughter of William 
Robinson of Maine. They had one son, William F., who is in Kansas City. On the 
27th of December, 1863, Mrs. Filton died. For his second wife he married Elizabeth 
Bostwiok of this city, in October, 1867. They had three children, two sons and 
one daughter: Alonzo, died at the age of fifteen years, loved by all who knew him; 
Mattie S. and Charles B. who reside at home. His father, Timothy, was born near 
Meredith, New Hampshire, in 1792 and died in 1863. He was in the war of 1812. 
His wife died in August, 1868. Her maiden name was Susan Osgood. 

Spore, James, Amsterdam, was born at Crane's Village, December 9, 1837, and was 
educated in the public .schools; he worked at farm labor nntil he was old enough 
to learn the machinist's trade with the McElwains. He then went to West Albany, 
and was in the employ of the New York Central Railroad shops from 1864 for 
twenty-five years, when he returned to the McElwains in Amsterdam, where he 
has since been a valued mechanic. February 24, 1856, he married Charlotte, third 
daughter of Morris and Matilda Quick of Charleston ; they had two children who died 
in infancy, both girls : Theresa J. and Dora. Mr. and Mrs. Spore are members of the 
Emanuel Presbyterian church in Amsterdam. 

Spore, John A., Amsterdam, was born in Florida, June 30, 1833, and moved with 
his parents to Crane's Village when he was about two years old ; he worked on 
the farm until he was eighteen years old, when he started to learn the machinist's 
trade with the McElwains where he remained five years; he was west two years^ 



250 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

after which he returned to his former employers where he has been foreman 
thirty-Eve years ; he was married twice, first January 20, 1858, to Rebecca De 
G-raff of Amsterdam, and they had a son, Emanuel N., who resides at Little Falls. 
For his second wife, January 30, 1867, he married Jane E. Kinney, of Albany 
county ; they have two daughters, Helen M. and Sarah H. ; both reside at home. 
Mr. Spore's father was born in Charleston, July 26, 1795. April 1, 1824, he mar- 
ried Helen Pettingill ; they had five sons, I'eter P., David, Simeon W., John A., 
and James. Both Mr. and Mrs. Spore's father and mother died at Crane's Village. 
The ancestry of the family on both sides is Dutch. 

Cook, Mason, Amsterdam, was born in the town of Schuyler, Herkimer county, on 
the 3d of February, 1825, and was educated in the public schools. He worked at farm 
labor until he was nineteen years old. Mr. Cook has occupied several official positions 
in the employ of the N. Y. C. & H. R. R. Co. during the forty-eight years he has been 
with them, and is now freight agent in Amsterdam, a position which lie has held for 
seventeen years. He has been married twice. On the 18th of May, 1854, he married 
Ellen Sytliff of Oriskany. They had one daughter, Anna M., who died in 1884. Mrs. 
Cook died in 1869. On the 25th of September, 1878, he married Mrs. Harvey (Christ- 
man) Park of Utica. She had one daughter by her first husband, namely, Grace M., 
who resides at home with Iier parents. Mr. Cook's father, Moses, was born in Con- 
necticut and married Lavina Brown, formerly of Massachu.setts. They came to this 
region of the country when they were lately married, and they had six children : Rozina, 
Jeanett, Samuel, Moses, Nancy, Mason. 

Austin, Charles D., Amsterdam, was born on the 5th of May, 1845, in Port Jackson 
{now Amsterdam) and was educated in the public schools of Tribes Hill. In early life 
he was a druggist and is now a manufacturer of knit goods, doing business in Rockton, 
under the firm of A.ustin, Stairs & Blauvelt. On the 9th of December, 1869. he married 
Francis A., youngest daughter of Nicholas and Elizabeth Hillebrant of Johnstown. 
Tbey had three children, two sons and a daughter : Edward T. and Lizzie F. died, the 
first at the age of eight years and the latter at three and a half years, C. Wilbur sur- 
vives, born on the 22d of January, 1874, and is now being educated. Mr. Austin's 
father, Hiram, was born at Stillwater about the year 1798, and married Eliza Van Husen. 
They had seven children, five sons and two daughters. The ancestry of the family on 
both sides is Dutch. 

Bcker, Daniel W., Amsterdam, the father, George G. Ecker, was born in Mohawk, 
about the year 1793 ; he married Lena Nare of his native town, by whom he had nine 
children, six daughters and three sons : Edward, Catherine, Bessie, Margaret, Annie, 
AUie, Gertie, John H., and David W., who is a patron of this work and the youngest 
member of this family. He was born on the 19th of November, 1844, in Palatine, and 
was educated in the common schools and Fort Plain and Gloversville Academies. He 
left home at the age of seventeen for the oil regions and returned to Amsterdam. He 
was a farmer and also in the milk and ice business, and is now in partnership with Jacob 
Schuyler, and they have a repository of harness, carriages, agricultural implements, etc., 
on Division street. On the 14tn of January, 1867, he married Margaret Dillenbeck of 



FAMILY SKETCHES.t 251 

Amsterdam. They have two children, one daughter and a son : Virginia, who married 
William Barnes of Amsterdam ; and David H., who resides at home attending school. 
Mr. Ecker's grandfather, George, came from Holland and was in the revolutionary war. 
The ancestry of the family is Dutch and German. 

Billings, William R., Amsterdam, was born at Port Jackson (now Amsterdam) on 
the 30th of December, 1861, and was educated in the public schools and Amsterdam 
Academy. He has always been a farmer and has been married twice; first on the 11th 
of January, 1881, to Jenny Payne, by whom he had one son, Earl R., who was born on 
the 8th of March, 1884. For his second wife, on the 27th of February, 1889, he married 
Julia, only daughter of Jacob and Emma Edwards of Florida. Mr. Billings's father,. 
William H., was born in Florida and married Rebecca H. Burns of his native town, by 
whom he had two children, one died in infancy, and William R. Mrs. Billings's father, 
Jacob Edwards, was born in Ephratah in 1835 and married Emma Snell of Fort Plain, 
by whom he had three children : James, William, and Julia. 

Collins, Peter J., Amsterdam, was born on the 13th of December, 1861, at Otisville, 
Orange county, and moved with his parent to Port Jervis when he was five years old, 
and here he was educated. He has been a radway man for the past fifteen years, first 
as a trackman, while for the past three years he has been freight agent for the N. Y. 
C. & H. R. R. Co., they being lessess of the West Shore Railway Co. On the 1st of 
October, 1889, he married Winfred F. Cavneyof Port Jervis. They have one daughter, 
namely, Winfred Marie. Mr. Collins is recognized by the business community as a 
very efficient agent. 

White, Dr. Maxwell, Amsterdam, was born on the 28th of March, 1856, and was ed- 
ucated in the private schools and Amsterdam Academy. He graduated from Union 
College in the year 1881 and from Albany Medical College in the year 1886, being val- 
edictorian of his class. He immediately began to practice at his old home in Amsterdam 
and is the attending physician of the Children's Home and is president of the staff of 
Amsterdam Hospital. He is an elder in the Emanuel Presbyterian church and is a 
prominent worker in the Young Men's Christian Association. 

Dersch, Conrad, Amsterdam, was born on the 1st of September, 1840, at Hesse 
Cassel, Germany, was educated the public schools. He was by occupation a hard wood 
ornamental finisher on musical instruments, and other fine work. In the year 1854 he 
came to the United States and first located in New York, but in 1859 he came to Am- 
sterdam. On the 3d of April, 1862, he married Elizabeth Berkel formerly of Ilar.'chfeld, 
Germany, by whom he had seven children, One son, John, died at the age of twenty- 
three years, six survive : Adam, Eve, Mary, Carrie, Henry, and Charles. Mr. Dersch 
has resided in this city for thirty-three years. He is a member of the German Lutheran 
church and of the German I. 0. O. F., and of the German Benevolent Society, and 
bears his share of official and financial responsibility in each. 

Perry, William, Amsterdam, was born in Kidderminster, England, on the lOth of 
August, 1834, and was educated in the schools of that day in his native town; he 
served his time learning the blacksmith's trade and traveled extensively in that little 



•J52 HISTORY OF MO^"TGOMERT COUXTT. 

island. On the 25th of December, 1858, he married Harriet Linton of Bronsgrove. 
They have three children : one daughter, Lizzie, died in infancy, a son and a daughter 
survive. Emily D. married George D. Hart of this city. They have two daughters and 
a son, namely, Edna D., Herbert D. and Harriet D. William H. married Ida Jackson 
of this city. They have one son, AV alter V. H. In the year 1872 Mr. Perry came to 
the United States and first located in Connecticut, where he remained one year and 
sis months; he then came to Amsterdam and was foreman in one of the departments 
in Sanford & Son's carpet factory fourteen years. 

Snyder, William P., Amsterdam, was born in Durham, Greene county, November 
27, 1837 ; he received a common school and academic education and was a farmer un- 
til he attained the age of twenty-three. August 14, 1862. he enlisted in Oimpany B, 
Thirty-first Wisconsin Volunteers. This regiment joined General Sherman's army be- 
fore Atlanta, and consequently participated in its battles and glorious career in its 
march to the sea. He was honorably discharged at the close of the war. He then 
sold his farm in Wisconsin and returned to the place of his birth ; he conducted a mer- 
cantile business in Durham seventeen years, was also postmaster about ten years, and 
came to Amsterdam in the year 1880 and conducted a boot and shoe business for six 
vears, which he sold ; he then began to manufacture knit goods, shirts, drawers, etc., 
and is now doing business under the firm of Snyder, Hull <fc Smith. December. 31. 
1856, he married Annjenette, youngest daughter of James and Diana Wright, of his 
native place; they have two daughters, Estella D. and Alice M. Estella D. married 
Xathan B. Smith, formerly of Greene county. They have two children, both sons 
Terne W. and Leeland W. Alice M. married Wilbur Jenkms of this city. Thev 
have one son, Tolney G. 

Sawyer, Rev. Leicester J.. Amsterdam, was bom in New Haven December 19, 
1837; he graduated from Hamilton College m 1859, and from ITnion Theological 
Seminary, New Tork, m 1862. October 8, 1862, he enlisted in Company H, Twenty- 
seventh Connecticut Tolunteers. December 13, 1862, at the battle of Fredericksburg, 
he wa.s wounded in three places, viz. : in the hand, knee and head, was honorably dis- 
charged on account of wounds from Mount Pleasant Hospital, Washington, April 6, 
1863. He has married twice, first September 8, 1862. to Candaee A. Mack of Bufi'alo ; 
she died July 14, 1877. July 24, 1878, he married H. Augtista Graham of Whites- 
boro: they have three children, two sons and one daughter: Lorenzo G., Ethel and 
Leicester G. He preached in the west twelve years. In 1877 be took charge of the 
Presbyterian Church at Whitesboro. March 1. 1889. he became pastor of the 
Emanuel Presbyterian Church of Amsterdam. 

Scudder. Charles W., St. Johnsville. son of Stephen and Margaret Romans Scudder, 
was born in the towTi of Maryland. Otsego county. May 25, 1836. From 1842 until 
1856 he lived in Clayville. Oneida county. In 1856 he went to Michigan and in the 
following year to Mis.<!ouri. On account of his anti-slavery sentiments he was com- 
pelled to leave Jeflerson City. Missouri, in 1859. He returned to Oneida county, and 
November 11. 1861. he enlisted at Schuyler's Lake. Otsego county, in the First New 
Tork Engineers, remaining in the service three years. He saw some hard fighting. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 253 

He participated in tlie battle of Roya] Ferry ; the siege and capture of Fort Pulaski 
on the Savannah river ; the battle of James Island ; the attack on the Charleston & 
Savannah Railroad at Popalaligo; the capture of Morris island and the siege of Forts 
Sumter, Wagner and Gregg, and the battle of Olustee. He tlien in ISG-t returned to 
Morris island, where he had charge of the engineering corps from June until Novem- 
ber, when he was mustered out in New York city. After the war he settled in 
Painesville, Ohio, and traveled for Gardiner Brothers of Cincinnati, selling fruit trees. 
In November, 1805, he located at Canajoharie, Montgomery county. September 26, 
1866, was united in marriage to Helen Louisa, daughter of John V. and Harriet Wet- 
more Conover. They have three children : John C, Stephen J. and Jessie H. In 
1870 moved to St. Johnsville and became foreman for Conover & Knox in the manu- 
facture of fifth wheels and carriage forgings. In 1876 Mr. Scudder purchased the busi- 
ness of his employers and has conducted it since then with marked ability and success. 
For the past six years he has been president of the National Carriage Hardware As- 
sociation. He is a prominent Grand Army man and a leading spirit in the organiza- 
tion of Smith Post, of St. Johnsville. His neighbors and fellow townsmen heartily 
respect and like him for his sturdy integrity, his downright manliness, his unfailing 
geniality, his marked business ability, his decided convictions and his courage in main- 
taining them. In 1891 and again in 1892 was elected supervisor on the Republican 
ticket. In March, 1892, was elected chairman of the board of supervisors, over whose 
meetings he has presided with dignity and impartiality. At the Republican conven- 
tion held at Fonda October 15th, 1892, Mr. Scudder very reluctantly accepted the 
nomination for member of assemblj' and lost the election by three votes. His home 
and factory are pleasantly located about a mile above the village of St. Johnsville. 

Pettengill, William T., Amsterdam, was born in Florida October 15, 1840 ; he was 
educated in the common schools, and until he was twenty-five years old worked on the 
farm. About the year 1865 he came to Amsterdam, following a variety of occupa- 
tions. In the year 1809 he became a clerk with Philip Pruyn <fc Co., where he re- 
mained four years, and for ten years he followed the grocery bu.siness on Bridge street, 
but was forced to retire on account of ill health. About 1884 he bought the mterest 
of S. Y. Gardiner, of the firm of Gardiner & Thom&s, manufacturers of knit goods, and 
under the firm of Thomas & Pettengill continued four years. In the year 1888 he again 
embarked in the grocery busiress which he still continues. February 17, 1875, he mar- 
ried Mary E., oldest daughter of Wilham and Margaret Moody of this city, formerly 
of Connecticut. They have one daughter, Margery. Mr. Pettengill's father, David, 
was born at the old home in Florida in 1806, and married Jeannette McNee of Prince- 
town, Schenectady county. Her father came from Glasgow, Scotland; thay had eight 
children: Agnes, Mary, William T., Peter, Ella E., Herman M., Louisa and Anna J. 

Stebbins, William H., Amsterdam, was born near Poughkeepsie, August 29, 1829, 
and left there with his parents when a year old for Berkshire county, ilass.; he was 
educated in the public schools, and his early life was devoted to farming. In the early 
part of the late rebellion we find him in Oswego county in thisState. In August, 1862, 
he enlisted in Company A, 110th N. Y. S. Volunteers, serving two years and six months, 
when he was honorably discharged as first sergeant. He immediately enlisted in the 



254 HISTOET OF MOXTOOMEEY COirS'TT. 

Second Florida caralry, a body of Southern lojal volunieers; June 1, IS&i. he was 
promoted second lieutenant, and to the position of captain, NoTember 20, 1S65. Early 
in the year 1S65 he was appointed provost-marshal of MonticeUo. Florida, and he was 
honorably discharged in 1S66. In his first enlistment in the 110th Infantry he partici- 
pated in the assault upon Port Hudson, and was with General Backs'through the Bed 
river campaign. January 29, ISoO. he married Caroline E.. third daughter of Christo- 
pher and Betsey (Hall) Davis of Guilford. Conn. They have two children, a daughter 
and a son : Hattie C, who married J. Van Coney of this city, they have a son Harry 
S.; and Fred Lincoln, who is a ranchman in the'State of Washington. Mr. and Mrs. 
Stebbins have been residents of this city twenty-two years : he has served his towns- 
men in the capacity of trustee of the village three years, also as alderman of the Third 
ward three years : he is a member of tlje toard of trade and one of the tmstees of the 
city hospital: he was also superintendent of the construction of the river bridge; he is 
a member of Post Young No. 33, G. A. R. of Amsterdam, also of Artisan Lodge Ko. 
84. F. and A. M. of this city. 

Blood, James, Amsterdam, was born on the 26th of July, 1S37, in the town of Flor- 
ida, and was educated in the district schools. In the early years of his life he was a 
farmer. He was married twice, first to Henrietta, third daughter of Thomas Schuyler 
of Florida, by whom he had two children, twins, Edward and Alice, both dying in in- 
fancy. In the fall of 1SS7 Mrs. Henrietta Blood died. On the .5ih of December, 18SS, 
he married Mrs. Harriet Van Antwerp, the fourth daughter of Jeremiah Schuyler. Mr. 
Blood lived thirteen years in Herkimer county, and came to Amsterdam twelve years 
^o. Mr. Blood's father. Beuben L., was born in Montgomery county, and married 
Mary Davenpeck. by whom he had four sons and one daughter: Susan, Robert, John 
D.. James and Daniel. The Schuylers were among the earliest settlers in Hie valley 
and in New York, and were identified as soldiers in our early wars against a common 
foe, and in the early legislation for one common country. 

O'Brien, Dr. John C, Amsterdam, was bom on the ~th of August, IS63, at Bellows 
Falls, Vt., and was educated in the public schools. He was educated for his profession 
in the Medical University of Vermont, and graduated in 1SS7. His first practice was 
at Turners Falls, Mass. In the year 1SS9 he came to Xew York and located in Amster- 
dam. On the 9th of July. 18S9. he married Jennie C, only daughter of William and 
Lucy Farren of Turners Falls, Ma.«s, They have one son. John C, jr. Mr. O'Brien's 
father came to Bellows Falls in 1849. He married Mary O'Heam, by whom he had 
five children : Eate, William, John C, Thomas and James. Dr. O'Brien was at one 
time in the goveminent mail service, and is at the time of writing city physician of 
Amsterdam. 

Reynolds. Edington E., D. D. S., Amsterdam, was bom in Ovid on the 1st of March, 
1865, and went with his uncle, William F. Edington, to Geneva when he was four 
years old, where he was first educated in the public schools, and graduated from the 
Geneva Classical Union school. He also graduated from the denial department of the 
University of Maryland. He was brought up in the profession from a young boy. as 
his father followed it all lus life before him. The family have sis following the profes- 



FAMILT SKETCHES. 255 

sion. His father. Roc<n S.. was com :n Cavagm ic 1K!3, and maurieJ Martha S. John- 
son of Ovid. Thev bad Eve so-s snd •.hr*e dairghters^ Edingtoc E. married on June 
4. 1S90. Louise 5., oldest daughter of Alrsni T. and Henrietta ilerselis of this citr. 
They have one son, Abram XL, who was Vorc on the 9ih <rf Maj, 1S92. 

CooloD. Andrew B., Amsterdam, was t-orn in Welk. Hamiltou county, on the 16th 
<tf January, 1S57. and was educated in the public schools and has always been a clerk 
and a bosJoess man. He came to Amsterdam in the year 1S75 and was appointed city 
derk on the iOth of March, 1SS9. On the 26th of September. ISSO. he married Slary 
A., third daoghter of Edward and Mary Mullett of this dty. They hare three children, 
iwe son and two daughters: Margaret, Mary £^ and Thomas F. Mr. Conlon's father, 
Thomaf, was bom in Ireland, but eventually came to the United States, He married 
Margaret Doyle, by wh<Kn be had foar diildren. namely : Thomas. Francis. EUen J. 
and Andrew & 

Toorfaees. George M., Amsterdam, was bom on (he I6lh of March, 1S26. and was 
educated in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. In early life he was a 
tanner. On the 2d of October. 1S52, he married Haimah, cmly daughter of William 
Slocom of XoTthampton. Fulton county. Tc^y hare two children, one daughter and 
one SOD. Josephine S.. who married William Topping of Albany, and Samttel A., who 
resides in Iowa. Mr. Voorhees was commissioned captain of Company D, 93d X. T. 
S- Volunteers, and was honorably discharged in 1S65l BQs father. Dr. Samuel Voor- 
hees. was bom in Xew Jersey and came with bis parents here when he was two Tears 
old. He married Betsey Reynolds, by whom he had fo<ir children. The ancestrr of 
the &mily is Dutch, English and Scotdi. 

Hand. Edward, jr.. Amsterdam, was bom in Glen <« the 25th of October. 1867. and 
was educated in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. In company with Tunis 
Peck he maoofactates brooms, under the firm ot Tunis Peck & Company. Mr. Hand's 
&ther, John, was bom at the old home, and married Jane £. Bennett of his native 
town. He was a &rmer by oocapatioo and had one son, Edward J. Mr. John Hand 
died on the 1st day of January, 1S92. 

Maehoid, Bonhard, Amsterdam, was bom on the 17th of April. ISII. in Germany, 
and was educated in the pablic sefao*^ there and at the age of fourteen began to learn 
the trade at mason. • In the year 1S6S be came to the United Slates, locaang first in 
Albany, bat in 1869 he settled permanently in Amsterdam. He has a large business as 
contractor in mason work, and in the busy season employs as many as sixty men. On 
the 2-ith of Xovember, 1872, he married Martha Mehlam from Germany, by whom he 
had nine cfaildien. seven sons and two daughters : G. Frederidc, C. William. C. Bern- 
hard, H. Edmund, Frank, J. Walter, Lillie M., Laura and baby. 

Tan Buren, Martin, Amsterdam, was bom on the 17th of Jime, 1850, and was edu- 
cated in the pablic sdiools and in a private s^mmI in Albany. For ten years he has 
held Tarioos poeitioos of trost in Xew York and other places. In the year 1SS3 be be- 
came a book-keeper in the Farmers' National Bank. Amsterdam, for two vears. and 
«sststanl cashier for foor years. In the year 1S89 he was a{^inted cashier of the 



256 HrSTORY OF MONTaOMERY COUNTY. 

Amsterdam City National Bank. On the 28th of June, 1882, he married Marcia B., 
second daughter of John and Esther Craig of Fultonville. They have two children, 
both boys. John Craig, born on the 11th of December, 1885, and Martin Enders, born 
on the 27th of February, 1889. Mrs. Van Buren was born March 5, 1857. 

Harvey, John F., Amsterdam, was born in Amsterdam February 28, 1859, and was 
educated in the public schools and Amsterdam Academy. He is an ornamental sign 
painter and decorator in company with J. A. McNaughton, under the firm of Mc- 
Naughton & Harvey. June 6, 1882, he married Lizzie, oldest living daughter of Henry 
A. and Marietta Smith, who formerly resided at Watertown, but now live in this city. 
They have had four children : Frankie, who died in infancy ; Geneveive, who died at 
the age of six; J. Fred, and Myrtle. Mr. Harvey is a member of Chuctenunda Lodge 
No. 100, K. of P. 

Deal, John H., Amsterdam, was born in Amsterdam, September 4, 1842, and was 
educated in the common schools. In early life he was a farmer but since then has en- 
gaged in a variety of occupations. April 25, 1861, he enlisted in Company B, 32d N. 
Y. S. Volunteers. In the battle of Gaines' Mills on June 7, 1802, he was wounded in 
the hands and taken to Fortress Monroe, and afterwards to a hospital in Baltimore, 
and on October 26, 1862, he was honorably discharged as disabled. On July 25, 1865, 
he married Eugenia A., third daughter of George A. and Ann Cramer of Florida, and 
they have two children : George B., who married Minnie McCnlloch of this city ; they 
have a daughter Ethel ; also James H., who married Mina Benson of Schoharie county ; 
they have a daughter Stella. Mr. Deal's father, Jeremiah, was born in Amsterdam 
March 29, 1794, and married Rachel Vosburg of his native town ; they had twelve 
children, nine sons and three daughters : Jane A., William, Isaac, Margaret, James, 
Jeremiah, Peter, Rachel A., William H. No. 2, J. Benson, Edward and John H. Some 
of the ancestors on the mother's side were m the revolutionary war. Mrs. Deal's 
brother was in the late war and died as a sacrifice on the altar of his country for the 
cause of freedom. Mr. Deal is a member of E. S. Youngs Post No. 33 G. A. R. of 
Amsterdam. Mr. Deal's grandmother, Jane, on his father's side, lived to be 106 years 
old. 

Kennedy, James, Amsterdam, was born in Ayershire, Scotland, March 6, 1836; he 
was one of a family of nineteen children and in 1852 came with his brother to the 
United States, locating in Hamp.shire county, Mass., where he remained two years. 
He then went to Elizabeth, N. J., where he remained twelve years. He was a wheel- 
wright by trade and sold his real estate and went for a short time to his former location 
in Massachusetts. He then moved to Glens Falls, where for eleven years he was ex- 
tensively engaged in the boot and shoe trade. He has been a resident of Amsterdam 
fourteen years; he is a member of the order of Scottish Clans, Clan McAlpine, No. 60, 
and is president of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew's, an Episcopal organization in con- 
nection with that church, and is chancellor commander of Woodbine Lodge No. 250 of 
Knights of Pythias for 1892. May 7, 1854, he married Ann E. Keeliher of Hampshire 
county, Mass. ; they have three children, two sons and one daughter : William Wallace, 
who is in Glens Falls ; Helen, who married Henry I. Cook of Buffalo ; and John David^ 



FAMILY SKETCHES 257 

■who is rector of an Episcopal cluirch in Brooklyn. Mr. Kennedy has recently been 
elected city assessor for three years. 

Christman, Uriah, Amsterdam, was born in Palatine, NovemDer 16, 1819. and was 
educated in the common schools. He was a farmer b3' occupation, and on January 1, 
1839, he married Xaucy Wicks of Canajoharie. They had eight children, three sons 
and five daughters: Catherine, who married Jacob E. Dygert of Palatine; Mary, who 
married Henry Dillenbeck of the same town ; Ella, who married Simon Baunter of 
Amsterdam ; Annie died at the age of nineteen ; Martha married Byron Klock of Dan- 
ube ; Arthur died in his twenty-third year: Raymond, a coal merchant of this city ; 
and John 1., who is a farmer on the homestead. March 3. 1S86, he married Margaret 
B. Walker of Broadalbiu, and she died May 17, 1S91. The family came from Palatine 
to Amsterdam in 1S6S. Mr. Christman was one of the directors in the Manufacturer's 
Bank of Amsterdam ; he died April 27, 1SS"2. John I. is one of the water commis- 
sioners of the city. The ancestry of the family is German and English. 

Bostwick, John N., Amsterdam, was born in Perth, March 24, 1845, and came to 
Amsterdam with his parents when he was fourteen years old where he was educated in 
the public schools. When he attained his majority he was an expert in the business of 
marble and granite cutting; he is now doing a very large business, employing ten men. 
He has married twice, first to May Bartlett of this city, by whom he had one daughter. 
Kittle M. Mrs. Bostwick died in 1879. September 4, 1884. he married Ada L.. young- 
est daughter of John and Margaret Beverly of Dolgeville, by whom he has had four 
children, two sons and two daughters: Stephenson Tliorne, John Newman, Margaret 
Augusta and Lina Frances. Mrs. Bostwick's father (John Beverly), served through 
the late war and is now superior judge in Tacoma in the state of Washington. The 
ancestry of the family is Dutch and English. 

Hammond, Seneca, Amsterdam, was born in Northampton, Fulton county, in Jan- 
uary, 1829, and was educated in the public schools; he was a farmer by occupation 
February 20, 1858, he married Margaret Thomas of Tribes Hill ; they had three sons: 
William I., who married Emma Radway, December 13, 1883 ; they have two children, 
both sons; Frank S. and Edward W. ; Mrs. Hammond died January 5, 18911; Nicholas 
D married Minnie Hofl^man of this city on April 10, 1889; they have one son, Paul; 
and Elmer E., who married, October 1, 1888, Rachel Saulwaterof the town of Florida; 
they have one son, Walter. Mr. Hammond died January 29, 1889. Mrs. Hammond's 
brother Nicholas served in the late war. He died of a wound received at Antietam, 
being buried on the battlefield, but several weeks afterwards his remains were taken 
home for burial. Mrs. Hammond is a resident of the fifth ward. 

De Wolfe, Charles, Amsterdam, was born in Newport, Herkimer county, in 1833, 
and moved with his brother Harlow to Syracuse, where he followed the dry goods busi- 
ness several years. In 1852 he returned to Herkimer, accepting a position as teller in 
the Agricultural Bank, and in 1857 he came to Amsterdam. For a short time he was in 
the Farmer's Bank and afterwards assisted in organizing the First National Bank of this 
city, being appointed its cashier. After some years he resigued this position and as- 
sisted in organizing the Manufacturers' Bank of Amsterdam, he being its cashier for 



•258 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

three years. He then started to organize the Farmer's Bank of Schenectady, but died 
before the plans were finished. April 17, 1859, he married Mary E. , oldest daughter of 
the late Dr. Jacob and Mary (Rickard) Snellof this city ; they have five children: Mary, 
who married Charles H. Benedict of Penn Yan ; Irene L., Ella S., and Charles H., are 
•dead, and Carrie S. resides at home with her mother. Mr. De Wolfe died August 13, 
1878. The ancestry of the family is Dutch, German and French. 

Van Wormer, Isaac H., Amsterdam, Cranesville p. o., was born where he now lives 
October 17, 1817, and is a son of Casper and Eva (Van Dyck) Van Wormer. Casper 
was a son of Peter Van Wormer who was the first white settler of this section. He, 
accompanied by a Van Heusen and a Staley, came here from Greene county prospect- 
ing in 1765, and Peter selected this spot, a grant of 200 acres, known as allotment No. 
3; but he could not stay here ou account of the hostility of the Indians. He returned 
at the close of the war in 1779. He told to liis descendants the story of the battle of 
Saratoga, and how they heard the boom of the cannon at their home. He died in 1807 
at fifty-nine years of age, leaving seven children of whom Casper was the oldest. He 
was born in 177(1 and was married in 1795. He died in 1859, leaving eight children, of 
whom Isaac was the youngest, and he is the only representative of the family living. 
He was educated in the public schools of the county, and has always lived at the old 
homestead. September 5, 1855, he married Elinor Romeyn, daughter of the Rev. 
Thomas and Ann (Staley) Romeyn. They are the parents of three children : Harriet, 
now Mrs. William H. Hollenbeck, born January 18, 1856: Fannie, born March 14, 
1859; Julia, born November 27, 1863. Mrs. Van Wormer died January 27, 1891. 

De Graff, John D., Amsterdam, Cranesville p. o., was born on the farm where he now 
lives June 22, 1820, and was a son of Daniel and Helen (Swart) De Graff. Daniel 
was born in Schenectady county, June 16, 1780. He was a son of Isaac De Graff, 
whose home was in Schenectady, and he was the father of seven children, only one of 
whom is now living, Nancy Toll of Michigan, ninety- six years of age. They were a 
very long-lived family, all living to be past eighty except Daniel who died June 24, 
1857, seventy-seven years old. He left eleven children of whom only four are now 
living: Gazena, Elinor Clute, Anna Van Vrankin, and John D., our subject. He was 
educated in Amsterdam Academy under Horace Sprague, and West Galway Acade- 
' my under Professor Watson, also at Poughkeepsie under Professor Roe. When he was 
eighteen he taught Rotterdam public school for one year, after which he came home to 
help his father on the farm. On March 6, 1850, he married Catherine M. Cheeseman, 
daughter of Benjamin and Thankful (Sanford) Cheeseman, who were residents of this 
town, moving here from Diitche.ss county in 1810. After their marriage he moved on 
the farm next to his present residence; thence, in 1873, he went to Scotia, and left his 
brother-in-law, Seneca Duell, to conduct his mill at the foot of the hill. He has been 
very prosperous and lives on one of the best farms in the town. They are the parents 
of one child, Susan B., born .January 16, 1852. 

Kline, Cornelius 0., Amsterdam, was born on what is known as the Kline farm just 
out of Tribes Hill, November 1, 1815, and is a son of William and Angelica (Teller) 
Kline. William, his father, was a son of William Kline who came from Wittenburg, 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 259 

German}', before tlie war of the revolution. He lived in the old Fort Johnson, and his 
grandson tells that before the war the Indians came through this section and they had 
a great deal of trouble with them. Cornelius 0., our subject, was one of ten children. 
He was educated in the common schools of this town and helped his father on the 
farm. The latter died in 1862 and left the farm to Cornelius, who has increased it by 
purchase until he now owns 158 acres. It is the only farm of the whole ,Kline tract 
that is left in the hands of one of the family. He was married February 1, 1849, to 
Julia Smith, daughter of Adam Smith of GlenviUe, and they were the parents of two 
children, one is now living, Sanford B., born in 1855. Their daughter, Helen M. , died 
April 9, 1892, forty years of age. Mrs. Kline is living and is a comfort to her husband 
in his declining years. 

Clerk, James N., Amsterdam, Fort Johnson p. o., was born in what is now Perth, 
June 10, 1851, and is a son of Joseph and Charity (Kline) Clark. His early life was 
spent in Amsterdam, his parents moving there when James was but four years old. He 
was educated in the public schools of this town, and lived at home until his marriage, 
September 29, 1875, to Sarah M. Plantz, daughter of Adam and Maria (Veeder) Plantz 
of Mohawk. After his marriage he went into the lumber business and bought the saw- 
mill at Fort Johnson, which business he still follows. He has added a planing-mill to 
his place, and finds a ready market in Amsterdam for his lumber. He has been pros- 
perous and successful, which he owes, under God's blessing, to his own hard work and 
good business qualities. 

Wilde, James L., Amsterdam, Fort Johnson p. o., was born in Amsterdam Novem- 
ber 12, 1825, and is a son of Joshua and Phoebe (Bostwick) Wilde. Joshua Wilde came 
to this county from Dutchess county in 1820, and was married two years after. He was 
the father of eleven children, eight of whom are living: John B., William, Obadiah, 
Stephen, Charles H., Jane now Mrs. Horace b. Shepard ; Ann Eliza, now Mrs. Darwin 
Shuler; and James L., our subject. Joshua, the father, made many purchases of land 
in this section, and died in 1876, being then seventy years old. He left 160 acres of 
land to Stephen and Charles. James L. was educated in the common school and helped 
on the farm until his marriage with Mary Yates, February 9, 1849. She was a daugh- 
ter of John and Lucinda (Fuller) Yates. After his marriage he leased a farm of 500 
acres, which his father had previously owned, and which he worked five years. He 
then bought the farm of his present residence, a grain farm of forty acres, where he 
built a very fine residence and out-buildings, and made many other improvements, 
which have more than trebled the value of the property, making it one of the best in 
this part of the town. He lived in Amsterdam three years, where he was part of the 
time engaged in the furniture business. He also ran the saw-mill at Fort Johnson six 
years. He has no children, his only one, Mary Minerva, having died in 1878, twenty- 
seven years of age. Mrs. Wilde is living at sixty-five years of age. Mr. Wilde has 
never been interested in politics. 

Lingenfelter, David, Amsterdam, Tribes Hill p. o., was born on the farm where he 
lives, October 9, 1842, and is a son of Henry G. and Maria (Van Ness) Lingenfelter. 
Henry G. was a son of Grandus Lingenfelter, who died in 1823, forty years of age. 



260 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COrXTY. 

leariD? nine children; only five are now living: Michael and David of Elgin. Illinois; 
Eliza Tiemey of Johnstown ; Margaret Finehout of Fort Johnston ; Magdelen Young 
of Elgin. Henry G., the father of our subject, was the oldest child : he was born in 
ISOi and died in 1S79, leaving three children : Harriet, now Mrs. Moore of Johnstown, 
John H. of Lansingburg, and David, our subject. The latter was educated in the com- 
mon schools of this district, and helped bis father on the farm until he was nineteeti, 
when he engaged with Joseph Clark for two years, after which he spent a year in Ill- 
inois, returning the next year to engage in the mitten business in Gloversville for one 
vear. In 1S66 he joined his brother John H. and bought back the old homestead of 
sixlv-one acres of Peter Hanson. At the death of his father he was willed his father's 
farm of sixty-five acres, where he now lives. Mrs. Dngenfelter, mother of our sub- 
lect, died November 13, 1S62. In ISSl Mr. Lingenfeher bought out his brother's in- 
terest in the two farms, and has since conducted them alone. On February 15, ISSl, 
he married Dorothy Moore, daughter of David and Gertrude ( Quiihot ) Moore, and 
their union has been blessed by two children : Mahlon 3J., born February 24, 1SS3 ; 
and George D., horn March S, 1SS6. 

Hanson. Ira, Amsterdam, Tribes Hill p. o., was bom near where henpw lives in Am- 
sterdam. February 21, 1860. and is a son of Daniel P. and Barbara ( Wert) Hanson. 
Daniel P. Hanson was a son of Peter X. Hanson, whose father came to this country 
from Germany in the early settlement of this country, and the family have always 
made their home in this section. Daniel was one of three children, of whom but one 
IS living. James Hanson of Johnstown. Daniel was always respected and honored by 
his many friends ; he died April 27, ISS". leaving a wife and three children : Edward 
D. A., merchant of Amsterdam, bom October 20. 1S62; Laura, now Mrs. Harlan 
Haines of Johnstown, born August IS, 1ST2; and our subject, Ira S. His parents came 
to this farm when he was eight years old. and he attended public school and assisted 
his father on the farm until he was married. December 20. 1SS3, to Minerva Mosher, 
daughter of Barney and Jane (Plantz) Mosher of Johnstown. After his marriage he 
went to Johnstown where he engaged in the glove manufacture for three years, and 
then came hack after his father's death, and has since conducted the farm. He has 
been successful as a farmer, and the place is a good hay and grain farm of 100 acres. 

De Gratl", William, Amsterdam, was a son of Nicholas W. and Catherine (^Travers) 
De Gratl". and was born where he now lives, December 2S, 1S31. Nicholas W. was a 
son of John De Grafi'. born in 1793 and died in 1SS3, at ninety years of age. William 
remembers some very interesting stories his father told him of the pioneer days. He 
was a descendant of the De Grafl's who came over from Holland two centuries ago. 
There were four brothers and they settled on the banks of the Mohawk, from which 
source the large family of De Grafl's have sprung. His father told some very good 
stories of the Indians and their tricks, and tells of his grandfather's first settling here 
when the section was filled with wild animals. They were often kept awake nights by 
the howling of the wolves, and deer ran on the farm and in the door-yards. William 
was educated in the public schools, and helpied his father until he was married. Decem- 
ber IS, IS61, to Margaret A. Wemple. daughterof William C. tmd Elizabeth (McKin- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 261 

ney ) Weuiple ot Florida. They are the parents of one child, David Cassidy, born 
August 30. 1SG4, who is now employed by the Chuctenunda Gas company. 

De Graff, John G., Amsterdam, was born in Amstenlam within twenty rods of his 
present residence, January 30, ISoO, and is a son of John G. and Magdalen A. (Pol- 
lock) De Graff. John G., senior, was a son of Garrett and Elizabeth (Duryea). and 
was the father of fifteen children, of whom eight are living: Garrett H., Minerva, 
Mathias, Melissa Dean, Isabelle, Charles P.. Nettie, Oscar and John G. (the subject of 
our sketch), who was educated in the common schools, but at the age of eighteen he 
entered Amsterdam Academy for two years. After leaving school he assisted his 
father on the farm, and on November 20, ISTS, he married Frances A. Deuel, daughter 
of Seneca P. and Lucy E. (Cheesman) Deuel of Amsterdam. Mr. Deuel was born in 
Saratoga county in 1S35. Frances was born March 23, ISGO. Mr. De Graff has three 
children living; Florence, born August 20, 1S79; Howard P., born September 23, 
1SS7 ; and Lucy E., born November 16, 1S91. Mr. De Graff is a successful business 
man, and in addition to his farm duties he conducts a market of hay. straw and coal. 
They live on the old homestead farm in a pleasant cottage built bj- Mr. De GratV. They 
are a prominent family in church work; Mrs De Graff" is organist, while Mr. De Graff 
is superintendent of the Sunday school and a church officer since 1870. 

Farmer. Samuel J.. Amsterdam. Rockton p. o., was born in Bristol, England. July 6, 
1S41, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Cross> Farmer. Samuel J. attended the pub- 
lic school until he was fourteen, when he took a two years' course in a select school. 
After this he learned the mason's trade, which he has always followed. On Novem- 
ber 29. 1862. he married Anna L. Smyth of Bristol. . In 1S6S he came to this country, 
first settling in Minaville. but stayed tliere less than a year when he came to Amster- 
dam, where he rem.iined twelve years. In ISSl he came to Rockton, where he has 
built several of the largest factories of this section. He has had the contracts on L. L. 
Dean's, L. E. Harrower's, C. D. Austin's, Benn <.t Becker's, Blauvelt & Stairs', William 
Lindsay's, D. C. Hewitt's, and in fact all of the l!»rge buildings in the village. He has 
been a very prosperous mechanic, having but small means when he came to Rockton. 
He has by his good management and industry built up a fine property, owning five of 
the best and prettiest houses in Rockton, among them tlie fine large boarding house 
opposite L. L. Dean's factory. 

Canda. Elizabeth and Andalusia, Hagaman's Mills, daughters of David W. and Char- 
ity (Ostroni) Cauda, were born, the former January 6. 1830. and the latter on May 9, 
1833. in Amsterdam. The sisters have always been found together. Their education 
was derived in the public school near their present place of residence. They are the 
direct descendants of Nehemiah Cands, who came from Connecticut in 1790 and settled 
in Galway. and whose son, David H.. was one of the first merchants locating in Haga- 
man's Mills. His whole life was an interesting history. With but a common .*^chool 
education, at sixteen he was teaching school, then became a clerk, and then a partner. 
He married a granddaughter of a captain in the revolution under Washington, and 
joined the army, first as lieutenant, and then captain in the Light Infantry, 1S07-1S13. 
His regiment was in the battle at Plattsburgh in the war of 1812. He died April 14, 



262 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

1865, the oldest member of the First Presbyterian Church. He was a prominent poli- 
tician, holding the offices of postmaster and justice, and in 1820 was elected to the 
state assembly. 

Banta, Justice L., Hagaman's Mills, was born at Hagaman's Mills April 28, 1848, and 
is a son of Jacob B. and Hannah M. (Leavitt) Banta. His early life was spent at 
home, where he receired an education in the public schools. In 1864 he started the 
butchering business, which he followed until 1868, when he bought the Palmateer 
farm of fifty-three acres, which he conducted with his other business. In 1874 he 
added to his farm sixty acres, known as the Myndret Pawling farm. He has con- 
ducted these farms very successfully, and in 1890 he built a shoddy mill in Amsterdam, 
employing about twenty workers. On March 1. 1866, he married Nancy A. Peek of 
Hagaman's Mills, daughter of John C. and Katie (Peck) Peek. Nancy was one of a 
family of four children, one son and three daughters. Seven children have blessed 
their union : Myndret P., born May 7, 1868 ; Henrietta S., born May 31, 1870 ; Charles 
A., born April 10, 1873; Alvin J., born May 11, 1874; Edith M., born November 16, 
1875 ; Jes.sie, born September 30, 1878; and Earl, born May 25, 1880. Mr. Banta has 
been director of the ilerchants' Bank of Amsterdam, and is now a director of the 
Farmers' National Bank. 

Manchester, Darius V., Tribes Hill, was born in Charleston November 27, 1840, and 
is a son of John L. and Margaret (Clayton) Manchester. His early life was spent on 
the farm, attending public school until he was twelve years old. after which he helped 
his father on the farm. In 1858 he went to Wisconsin, where he worked as a carpen- 
ter for three years, coming home in 1861. August 21, 1862, he enlisted in the 103d 
Regiment Ohio Volunteers. He first saw service at Covington, Ky., in the guard under 
Gen. Lew Wallace ; drove the rebels ahead of them into Lexington, where they were 
detached and the 103d sent to Frankfort to guard the capitol. Here they made head- 
quarters until April, 1863, were then sent to Danville and attached to the Ninth corps 
under Burnside, sent to invade Tennessee, where they skirmished and raided for pro- 
visions until November, when Longstreet came up and the siege of Knoxville was 
started, which lasted about a month ; during this he received two flesh wounds. After 
Sherman raised the siege, they drove the rebels to the Virginia line ; were then recalled 
to guard duty until the spring of 1864, when they were to join Sherman's army, when 
the Ohio and Michigan regiments were formed into the 23d corps. They had skirmishes 
and one decided battle at Resaca, crowding the rebels until the battle at Kenesaw 
Mountain, where Mr. Manchester received the wound which crippled him for life. He 
was discharged by Gen. Hooker at Columbus, Ohio, in February, 1865. June 24, 1870, 
he married Maggie Hanson of Amsterdam, and in 1877 they moved to Tribes Hill, 
where he bought a farm of thirty acres, and has built hin. a fine residence in one of 
the choicest locations along the river. 

Wilde, Charles H., Fort Johnson, was born in Amsterdam on what is now the Daniel 
Hanson farm, March 13, 1845, and is a son of Joshua and Phoebe (Bostwick) Wilde. 
When Charles was two years old his parents moved on what is now the John B.Wilde 
farm, staying there one ;year, when they moved on the old homestead farm, where 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 263 

Charles's boyhood days were spent. He attended the public school and assisted his 
father until he was twenty years old, and then in company with his brother Stephen he 
took the farm to work on shares, which they continued until the death of his father in 
1876. They then succeeded to the farm, and in 1882 Charles bought out his brother's 
interest and now conducts it alone. On February 1, 1882, he married Libbie Johnson, 
daughter of David and Maria (Quilhot) Johnson of Perth. Mr. Wilde conducts the old 
homestead farm of 122 acres, good land for grain and hay, and has been a success as a 
farmer. He has never been interested in politics, content to let others govern while 
he does the business and work. 

Shepard, Horace B., Fort Johnson, was born in Amsterdam January 10, 1845, and 
is a son of John E. and Harriet (Fox) Shepard. The name originates from the Ger- 
man, but I he ancestry traced back three generations are native born. The early life of 
our subject was spent in this section, obtaining his education at the Fort Johnson com- 
mon schools and at Amsterdam Academy. The earliest business enterprise of Mr. 
Shepard was in 1863, when he and his uncle rebuilt the Fort Johnson grist-mill ; he 
conducted this until 1874, when he and his father started a grain, flour and feed store 
in Amsterdam, which tliey conducted nine years and sold it to John L. Cristman. Mr. 
Shepard was elected in 1883 supervisor of the town of Amsterdam before the division 
of the city from the town, and in 1884 was re-elected, which demonstrates his popu- 
larity and ability. In 1882 he laid the foundation of what is now the Morris Mill No. 
2 at Fort Johnson, and stocked it with machinery for the manufacture of knit goods, 
and run it until 1885, when he sold it to A. V. Morris & Sons. This was the founda- 
tion of the enterprise, and was the building up of Fort Johnson village. January 28, 
1872, he married Jane M. Wilde, daughter of Joshua and Phoebe (Bostwick) Wilde, 
and their union has been blessed by three children : Horace B., jr., born April 15, 
1877; Clarence W., born April 6, 1879; Belle, born August 11, 1888. Mr. Shepard's 
home is one of the finest residences m Fort Johnson, he having built in 1876 the large 
brick house and laid out the beautiful grounds of his present abode. John R., his 
father, died in 1885, sixty-eight years of age. His mother died in 1849, twenty-eight 
years of age. 

Hanson, Mrs. Agnes, Tribes Hill, was born at Tribes Hill August 9, 1822, and is a 
daughter of John and Elizabeth (Putnam) Vosburgh. William Henry Hanson was 
born at Tribes Hill October 18, 1824, and is a son of Abram and Mary M. (Hotaling) 
Hanson. The ancestry of this family was from Holland, and tradition says the earliest 
families of Hanson and Houghtaling came to this country about 1650. It certainly is 
a fact that the earliest records of any public documents in this country, find these two 
families already located. Victor Hanson is the first one of the family recorded. He 
had a son, John, the father of eleven childreu : Henry, Abram, Nicholas, William B., 
Harmanus, John, Barney, Victor, Maria, Rebecca and Katherine. Abram. the father 
of our subject, was born in 1788, and was a soldier in war of 1812. He died in 1862, 
leaving two sons, John, born 1810, now deceased; and William H. (our subject), who 
died January 17, 1866, leaving nine children, of whom five are living: Mary M., now 
Mrs. D. V. Manchester, born December 19, 1844 ; Lucy, now Mrs. Robert Worrell 
widow, born .January 14, 1852; Anna E., born March 25, 1856; Franc C, born Feb- 



264 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

ruary 4, 1858 ; Sarah M., now Mrs. William H. Lambert of Pittsburg, Pa., born 
August 9, 1860. Abram Vosburgh (grandfather of our subject) was a colonel in the 
revolution, and he was the father of six children, of which John, father of Mrs. Han- 
son, was the oldest. He was born December 8, 1782, and died in 1862 leaving ten 
children, of whom five are living : Maria Lasher of Albion ; Peter Vosburgh of Tribe, 
Hill ; Susan Cocoro of Fort Johnson ; John Vosburgh of Ashton, 111., and our subject 
Agnes Hanson. 

Sweet, John S., Fort Johnson, was born in Florida December 1, 1839, and is a son of 
Lansing and Elizabeth (Schuyler) Sweet. The family ancestry traces back to AVales 
and the earliest settlers of the name were three brothers who came to this country in 
1725, and one settled in Wilmington, N. C, and one in Connecticut, the other, Matthew, 
settled m Rhode Island, and was the great-grandfather of our subject. He was the 
father of ten children ; of these was one named Samuel, one of the youngest, and he 
was born about 1755. and lived to be over eighty years old. He was the father of 
three children: Watterman, Nathaniel, and John Gr., who was born in 1785, and died 
in 1868, leaving seven children, of whom two are still living : John L. Sweet of 
Florida; and S. Spencer of California. His oldest son, L. W. Sweet (the father of our 
subject), was born March 9, 1812, was married in March, 1835, and died January 13, 
1885. He was the father of two children, D. Spencer of Fort Johnson, and our sub- 
ject, John S. The earliest settler of this name in this country was Samuel, great- 
grandfather of John S. He came here about 1798 and settled on the farm in Florida, 
where Watterman J. Sweet now hves; and the family have always lived in that town 
until 1840, when Lansing W. moved to Amsteidam and bought the farm where John 
S. now resides. Mr. Sweet was educated in the common school and at Fort Plain 
Seminary. He was married May 10, 1883, to Sarah Putnam, daughter of Victor C. 
and Jane (Stoller) Putnam. Mr. Sweet has always lived on the old homestead farm 
and is a prosperous farmer. In 1888 he was elected supervisor, and has also held many 
other town offices of honor and trnst. His farm is part of the old Fort Johnson farm, 
and has 100 acres devoted to dairy and grain. 

Sweet Spencer D., Fort Johnson, was born on the Lansing Sweet farm at Fort 
Johnson May 26, 1852, and is a son of Lansing W. and Elizabeth fSohuyler) Sweet. 
Our subject has always lived on the farm of his birth, where he still resides. He was 
educated at the Fort Johnson school and assisted his father on the farm until he was 
twenty-seven years old, then he leased it and worked it for himself. On November 
29, 1882, he married Lizzie Rose, daughter of William Rose of Woodstock, Ontario, and 
they are the parents of three children : S. Ida, born December 9, 1883 ; Lansing W., 
born February 14, 1885; and Spencer, born February 2, 1891. Mr. Sweet has been a 
successful farmer, and erected m 1886 a very pretty residence and out-buildings. His 
farm of seventy-one acres is devoted to hay and grain culture. He is not a politician, 
but has been elected to positions of trust, and he desires to be known as an honest up- 
right citizen. 

Failing, Jacob H., Minden, the son of Henry Failing, was born in St. Johnsville 
April 11, 1776, and married, January 1, 1798, Gertrude Dockery. She was born March 



FAMILY SKETCHES 265- 

26, 1780, and died May 2G, 1839. Their children were John Adam, horn September 18, 
1800, and died in Palatine; Eva, born October 20, 1802, married Daniel Graff, and 
died in Minden; Mary, born November 15, 1804, married John A. Snel), and died in 
Minden ; Nancy, born May 13, 1810, widow of John Feeter, resides in Little Falls; 
Gertrude, born November 5, 1811, married Conrad Snell, and died in Amsterdam ; Julia, 
born January 11. 1816, wife of Enoch Snell of St. Johnsville ; Reuben; Margaret, mar- 
ried Solomon Smith, and died in Minden, and Alexander, who died young. Jacob H. 
died January 26, 1859. Reuben, of the above family, was born in St. Johnsville Octo- 
ber 3, 1817, and married in November, 1837, Catharine, daughter of Adam Klock. She 
was born May 5, 1819. Their children were, first, Jacob H., died in St. Johnsville ; 
second, Adam L., born in St. Johnsville October 20, 1842, married Rachel, daughter of 
Gabriel Smith, and they have one child, Lillian ; he is a Republican in politics, and 
has been supervisor two years; third, Jason, a resident of La Salle county, Illinois; 
fourth, Joseph, born in St. Johnsville September 25, 1846, married Mary, daughter of 
William Haradan of Minden. Their children are : Catharine, wife of John Sponable 
of Minden ; Wilson R., born October 10, 1870 ; Jacob H., born May 8, 1872 ; Josephine 
Lindon, born May 19, 1877; Marcus H., born January 19, 1879 ; Nelson, born January 
20, 1881. Joseph has always been a resident of Minden except two years, when he 
moved to St. Johnsville. His children are all natives of Minden except the oldest ; he 
is a Republican. Fifth, Harry, and sixth, Gertrude, both died young. Reuben married, 
second, Mrs. Mary (Bates) Smith, and their children were, first, John R., born in Min- 
den February 19, 1859, married Ada, daughter of Charles Zimmerman ; they have no 
children. John R. attended the Fort Plain Academy, and graduated from the Seymour 
Smith Institute at Pine Plains, Dutchess county. He taught school five years in Min- 
den, but is now engaged in agricultural pursuits. He is a Republican. Second, 
Ambrose T., born in Minden December 1, 1860, married Minnie, daughter of Gideon 
Bellinger; he has one child, Charles Adam. He is a Republican, and engaged in farm- 
ing. Third, Frank M., born in Minden October 17, 1863, married Corne C, daughter 
of John Nugent; they have no children ; he is a farmer, and a Republican. Fourth, 
Alberta, died young. Fifth, Reuben, a resident of Minden. Reuben was one of the 
largest farmers in Minden, of which town he became a resident in the spring of 1847, 
and where he died August 29, 1879. 

Johnson, Mrs. Angelica, Fort Johnson, was born in the town of Amsterdam, near 
Tribes Hill, February 4, 1816, and is a daughter of John and Maria (Hanson) Kline. 
David B. Johnson was born in Columbia county in 1815, and died in 1887, leaving ten 
children. (See Wm. H. Johnson Biog.). John Kline, father of Mrs. Johnson, was a 
son of William Kline, who, with two brothers, came to this country from Holland 
when this country was a wilderness and settled on a square mile of land on the north 
side of the Mohawk. He was the father of ten children, of whom John, father of our 
subject, was the second. He was born in 177C, and died in 1867, leaving six children : 
Peter, Maria, Rachel, William, Henry, and Angelica (our subject), the last of the family. 
She was married, April 6," 1864, to D. B. Johnson, a farmer of this town. In 1886, a 
year previous to his death, they moved to Fort Johnson, where he bought a very fim- 
residence on the main street of the village. After his death the farm was sold and 



266 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Mrs. Johnson has since lived in her village home. She has always taken an active in- 
terest in church work, and is now a member of the Tribes Hill Presbyterian church. 

Ireland, Jay, Fort Johnson, was born in the town of Amsterdam near Fort Johnson, 
April 1, 1851, and is a son of Thomas S. and Elizabeth (McKay) Ireland. (See T. S. 
Ireland.) The early life of our subject was spent in Amsterdam and Fort Johnson. 
He was educated in the common schools, and in 1864 he came to this place with his 
uncle, Obadiah Wilde, and after the latter's death (in 1865) Jay made his home with 
his aunt Eliza (McKay) Wilde, a sister of George and Robert McKay. When he was 
twenty years of age he engaged with Caughnet & Murphy in a leather dressing mill, 
remaining with them four years, after that conducted his aunt's farm of twenty-two acres 
for about sis years, then went as clerk for T. H. Kibbie in his store at Fort Johnson ; 
then was at home gardening two years, and then engaged with A. T. Morris & Co. to 
take charge of their picking department and store room, a position which he still fills. 
On Ausrust 6, ISSi, he married Nellie Stearns, daughter of Calvin D. Stearns of Iowa, 
formerly of Saratoga, but when she married she was a resident of Perth. 

Wilde, Stephen T., Fort Johnson, was born in the town of Amsterdam on the old 
Wilde farm, February 25, 1840, and is a son of Joshua and Phoebe (Bostwick) Wilde. 
(See J. L. Wilde biog.) The early life of our subject was spent on the farm and at- 
tending the common school and he still lives on a part of the old farm. On February 

4, 1888, he married Sarah M. Johnson, daughter of David B. and Maria (Quilhot) John- 
son of Perth. Mr. Wilde bought in 1884 a farm of seventy-five acres, known as the 
old Peter Banta farm, which is worked on shares for him. He sold his interest in his 
father's estate to his brother Charles, reserving the southern portion, a piece of about 
five acres, where he has built a beautiful residence and out-buildings. Mr- Wilde is a 
member of the official board of the West Amsterdam Methodist church, and is con- 
sidered in this part of the town as one of their best men. He has been a prosperous 
man and owes his prosperity under Divine Providence to his own hard work, good 
manigement and integrity. 

Ireland, Thomas S., Fort Johnson, was born at Malta, Saratoga county, October 
2, 1822, and is a son of Stephen and Mary (Thurber) Ireland. Stephen, father of 
our subject, was a son of Stephen Ireland who was a native of this country, al- 
though going back a, few generations before, the family was one of the English 
aristocracy. He was the father of ten children, of which Stephen was the eighth. 
He was born in 1793 and was married when he was twenty-two years old, and 
was the father of ten children, of which five are now living; Mrs. Abbie Stoker 
of Fort Johnson, a widow ; James Ireland of Grand Rapids, Mich. ; Mrs. Jennie 
Stewits of Grand Rapids; Edward S. Ireland of Denver; and our subject, Thomas 

5. The latter was educated in the public school and at Amsterdam Academy. 
When he was twenty-one years of age he was teaching in the district, and made 
his home on his father's farm for four years. On August 15, 1848, he married 
Mary E. McKay of Amsterdam, and they were the parents of six children, five of them 
are living: Eliza, now Mrs. Chas. Sternberg of Minden, born April 22, 1849; Jay, 
born April 1. 1851 ; Eugene, born June 22, 1853 ; Frank, born May 30, 1859 ; Edward, 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 26r 

born July 10, 1863; Anna was born June 16, 1857, and died July 30, 1887. After 
his marriage he again taught school, staying here two years, also at Tribes Hill 
two years and Fultonville three years, and then at Canajoharie where he taught five 
year.*, and was then elected school commissioner, served as such three years, then 
taught thirteen years longer at Canajoharie ; after this he held many different offices : 
paymaster on the Saratoga and Mount McGregor railroad, general agent for the Juvane 
Co., manufacturers of globes, and secretary for William Arkell for one year. He 
came back to Fort Johnson in ISS'J to teach. In 1891 he erected a beautiful home on 
the Main street, and lives in happiness and ease. 

Clark, Joseph, Fort Johnson, was born in the town of Amsterdam, but what is now 
Perth, May 17. 181.5. and is a son of George and Mary (Major) Clark. George Clark, 
father of our subject, was born in Perthshire, Scotland, October 1, 1780. He came ta 
this country in 1801 and settled in Galway, and he was married and became the father 
of seven children ; four are now living : George, jr., of Perth ; Margaret E., now Mrs. 
Robert Campbell, a widow of Johnstown ; Jane M., now Mrs. John C. McVan of Cal- 
edonia: and Joseph, our subject. George Clark after leaving Galway bought a farm 
of one hundred acres in Perth, cleared it up and built a log house, log barn and made 
it a good farm. He was drafted for the war of 1812, and lived and died on the old 
homestead. Joseph (our subject) attended public school and lived at home until his 
marriage, May 31, 1843, to Charity Kline, daughter of George and Sarah (Tan Ness> 
Kline of this town. He moved on a part of his father's farm of forty acres, where he 
remained ten years. In 1853 he bought the farm of 110 acres where he moved to in 
1855. (For family statistics see Wm. Clark's biog.) Mr. Clark remembers some of 
the incidents of his parents' e.xperience in their early settlement here — how they were 
obliged to go four miles to reach a church, and lie has now the old side-saddle on which 
his mother rode. They endured many hardships which the present generation will 
never know. Mr. Clark has never been interested in politics, but has given his whole 
time to the management of his farm, which is in fine condition. 

Pepper, Aaron, Fort Johnson, was born in Aeckhorst, Germany, May 5, 1814, and 
is a son of Cordt and Louisa (Thundermeir) Pepper. He came to this country in 1842 
and settled at Schenectady, where he made brooms for six years. In 1846 he married 
Ji[arv Hazeloe of Germany, and they were the parents of two children : Caroline, now 
Mrs. Horseman of Schenectady ; and Aaron of Chicago. In 1848 he came to the town 
of Amsterdam, and in 1851 bought the farm of 120 acres where he now lives. He has 
built up one of the finest residences on the river, with many other improvements, and 
has added a farm of 225 acres, making him owner of 345 acres in this place. In 1855 
his wife died at forty-six years of age. In 1869 Mr. Pepper bought the old Lingen- 
felter place of seventy-eight acres at Tribes Hill which he leases to a tenant. On 
August 26, 1857, he married Mary Myers of Germany and they are the parents of five 
children : Louisa, now Mrs. Krechting of New Jersey ; WiUiam, of Gloversville ; Lydia, 
now Mrs. Geo. B. Wayne of Johnstown ; Louie and Walter. Mr. Pepper is one of the 
prosperous and successful farmers of the town of Amsterdam, and owes his prosperity 
under Divine Providence to his own industry. He has had reverses too; in 1877 he 
lost broom shop and barns with all the stock in them by fire. Has also lost by being 



•26S HISTOET OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

willing to assist his friends. He has been elected to town office by the largest majority 
ever known here, which testifies to his popularity, and his son \S illiam was elected in 
1S39 to the office of supervisor, and to his second term in 1890, filling the office of honor 
and trust for the best interests of the people. 

Marcellu."! Family, The. — Along in the eighteenth century there was a family by the 
name of Marcellus lived in Manny's Corners, who owned nearly all the land in that 
section. There were three sons, one of whom was Manning Marcellus. He was the 
father of eight children : Jeremiah, Hester, Ahasuerus, Isaac, Laney A., Betsey, John 
C. and David. Jeremiah, the oldest, was born in ISOO and was married five times. By 
his first wife he had one child, George ; his second wife was Sophronia Davison and 
bad two children, Catharine A., now Mrs. Charles H. Ostrom. and James N. His third 
wife was a sister of the second, Margaret Davison, and had one sor. Mahlon. George 
married Margaret Shuler, and they were the parents of four children : three are living; 
Greorgiana. Isabelle. Amanda, Alva, the only son. died in 1S91, twenty-nine years of 
age. James N. of Glenville, and Malon of Amsterdam are the only living male descend- 
ants of this historic family. 

Marcellus. James N., Glenville, was born in Amsterdam December 31. lSii9, and is a 
son of Jermiah and Sophronia Marcellus. His early life was spent at home on the farm 
and attending the district school until his father's death, which occurred August 19, 
1866, after which he conducted the farm where he now resides, of 120 acres, known as 
the old homestead. On February 11, 186^. he married EHza Tan Epps of Glenville; 
they have one child, Mary L., now Mrs. Frank Clow, who was born August 19. 1869. 
Frank Clow is a medical missionary and is now stationed with his family in South 
Western Africa. Mrs. Marcellus died September 30. 1874. On September 22, 1876, 
he married Mary L. Van Epps, daughter of Isaac D. and Eliza (Staley) Van Epps. 

Marcellus, Mahlon, was educated in the public school of Glenville and lived at home 
until his marriage, which occurred September 16, 1870. His wife's name was Carrie 
Britton, a daughter of Harmanus and Mary (Van Wormer) Britton of Glenville. After 
his marriage he moved on the farm of 100 acres left him by his father, which is his 
present residence. Their union has been blessed by one child, Margaret D.. born De- 
cember 13. 1872. These brothers live by each other, and are happy, prosperous and 
comfortable. 

Grant. Donald, Amsterdam, was born on the farm where be now lives, September 
ti, 1844. and is a son of Gregor and Mary Grant. Gregor Grant was born April 5, 1800. 
in Scotland and came to this country in 1833. Mrs. Grant was bom April 10, 1810, in 
Scotland and came here in 1836. when they were immediately married on June 6. 1836. 
They were the parents of six children ; only one is living, Donald, our subject. He was 
educated in the public schools of this town and was but seventeen years old when the 
war broke out ; he enlisted tlie nest year in the 115th N. Y. Volunteers. He saw ser- 
vice first at Harper's Ferry under Gen. MUes, commanding the 10th corps. He was 
taken prisoner September 14, 1862, but was paroled and sent to Chicago and soon after 
ordered back to Washington where they were exchanged. Then they were ordered to 
Yorktown and thence to Hilton Head to do garrison duty ; thence to Jacksonville, under 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 269 

Gen. Gilmore, and at the battle of Olustee, February 20, 18G4, he was wounded and 
taken prisoner and sent to Andersonville. He was exchanged December 10, 1864, had 
two months' furlough, and again joined his regiment and remained until the close of the 
war. On October 25, 1870, he married Sarah A. Branson of Amsterdam town. They 
have three children living: Nellie B., born June 18, 1876; Donald, born May 17, 1883; 
Jessie S., born August 30, 1885. After the war he returned to the old homestead farm, 
and raises fruit and vegetables, and has made it one of the prettiest places in town ; 
with good residence and out-buildings, and every evidence of prosperity. 

Mathias, James, Cranesville, was born in Albany county July 30, 1836, and is a son 
of Frederick and Eunice (Remer) Mathias. The ancestors of this family, going back for 
five generations, were natives of this country ; but they trace their lineage on the father's 
side to Germany, and on the mother's side to Holland. They were among the earliest 
settlers of Albany and Schoharie counties, and among tlie early settlers appear the 
names of two Mathiases, and from one of these this family sprang. Our subject was 
educated in the public schools of Albany county and a course in Watervale Seminary. 
He stayed at home until the war broke out in 1861 when he enlisted in the Olst Regi- 
ment of N. y. Volunteers. He saw service in the Gulf department of Florida and 
Louisiana, first under Gen. Hunter for six months, where his regiment was doing gar- 
rison duty at Key West ; after which Gen. Ben. Butler took command and they 
were sent to Pensacola to guard the forts at that place. Butler was transferred in six 
months to the army of the Potomac and the 91st Regiment to Baton Rouge under Gen. 
Banks, where thev did garrison duty for three months, then they made a reconnoissance 
to Fort Hudson and then marched to Donaldsonville and Brashear City ; thence they 
they took transport up the lake, where they fought the battle of Irish Bend and pur- 
sued the enemy to Alexandria. He was in all the engagements at Port Hudson, where 
he was wounded in the leg June 14, 1863. It was almost a loss of his limb, but it was 
saved after a year's suflering. He was discharged from the service on account of this, 
and came home. He was married May 21, 1857. to Magdalen Ogsbury of Albany county, 
and they have had seven children, five of whom are living : Henry, born June 11, 1858 ; 
Abrara, born January 1, 1860; Jennie, born January 1, 1864; Eunice, born January 1, 
1866 ; Charles, born in Tennessee March 7, 188?. In February, 1892, Mr. Mathias came 
to his present home, a farm of eighty-two acres, where he has built line out-\iuildiiigs, 
and is erecting a beautiful residence. 

Neff, Joseph, Cranesville, was born in the town of .Amsterdam April 0, 1827, and is 
a son of Daniel and Catherine (Kline) Netf. Daniel Nefl" was born in this county, but 
his father came from England. Joseph Kline, grandfather of our subject, was also born 
in this country, his father coming from Holland. Daniel Neff was one of the early 
settlers of this section. He bought of Gilbert Marcellus a farm of 135 acres and after- 
wards sixty-five acres of David Wilde. Mr. Nefl" succeeded to the larger farm at the 
death of his father, which occurred in 1SS2 when he was eighty years old. He left two 
sons: Andrew of Amsterdam, and Joseph, our subject. Joseph's early life was spent 
at home. He secured an education at Amsterdam Academy, and at the age of eighteen 
went to Rahway, N. J., where he learned the carriage maker's trade. There he stayed 



270 HI5TOET OF MOXTGOMKRT OOUSIT. 

fire jesis : liseaoe be went lo Tennessee aod stared there fire reirs ; liien sj^emt «;a- 
oiber fire rears in iDssssppi In 1361 be returDed to lid? to-»rn irbere be bas ssce 
r t'TTin-'D ed. Cte Mar S. ISai be narried Adeiiae Smidi of E«iir»T, aod they are die 
pireais oi tour childTejj. two aie Ericsr: Carne, ootr Mrs. Moies Bitter <rf RawiiaT, 
and M. Af&bel Tbe same c^Xefis ose irell-kiiovD fhitras^boot oor eosntr, as Daniel 
XefE. liiber ol our sn'tject was cxsmected with canal work orer twcmtr reare: and 
Joseph bas beld oSces oi trast aad bocor ic this lofrn maiar ii>*^t^ 

B:v>ni. Pbaip. GkariQe. was bom 5a Xew BaIti2K«re. Greeoe eoantT. October 9, 
ISIS, a2>d is a soo ol Josiepb asd Harriet i Coimsel Brook. Tbis name is c>i>e of tie o3d- 
ei in COT ctyantxj. Tbe ajxessts? were HcCanders. Joeepb was a pa3r>ot soHJer is 
tbe war of ISli He died Cbristmas ere. ISTi, asred 79. He was tie father oif rwe!lT« 
cir.iren. of whom four are now iiTins : Uaxr : £ebe«ca J_ now Mrs. Isaiai Eancar of 
'? ~ ' rr-re coanrr : Jaioes J. <^ Xew B»2tiiDare ; acd PbiEp, oor fob^ect. Tbe 

i r laiier was spent al borne, b^in^ on the farm and at3ieo&Bg scbooi. Od 

^ - -..-:. :.e =Ltrried Ljdia WoJfe. daoglber of Joiin E. and Al^vl (Foster) WoJfe 
of 'jreere co^iatr. Mis. Bronk's aQC!est<Krs om tbefaiber's siie weie Ho Ba» de»s, aad ob 
tbe mcibers side Enflisb. Her micJe, PbiEp Woiie. was a seedier m the reTolnaoB. 
Her graDdfasier. KeLip Foster, was one of tbe earbest settters of tbe State. After 
his mairiag* Oser came to this iowd where Mr. Brcmk bad tbe rear l«foii« bot^l a 
a farm of sareatr acres, ai>d tier bare since Kred bexe, and ther are the pucDts of 
of oae cbi'.i Harriet F-, bom Jannarr 2. 1S57. Mr. Brcci Las a fii» daiir and gt^B 
farm, and is considered a saccessfnL pax>spiQt>as faizies-. 

CoIHns. Japbet. Atosterdam. was bora in the town of Amsterdais at HantnFer''s 
Mill Ansnst !€. 1S23. and is a soo of Joe^k asad Hannah (^^gasB) Ooffisa, twm e il y 
of Datcbess conntr. wbo caioe here in ISia Josefih CoISbs died at 1S6^ e^ty-«^^ 
rears of a^ He was tbe falher of thirteen childies, of whoB fire are bow £ri^: 
&ter>ben BL, Ira. OliTer. Ab^ail, aow Mr& Boot of IDi&ois. aad Ja{ibet, oar sa^ect. 
He was edxtcued in &e pob&c sdioals of tUs town, and woiiged oa &e fana smtS he 
was twentr-eog-bt jears of a^e. Dehraar;- 26, 1S32, he Banied Sarah A. Be««, dao^aer 
of Henrr and Manba (Ostram') Bowe of ArassenSam. Two jc«is pacrioaB be boqght 
a farm of thirrr acres soi^tb of Ba^aman's MHk, which he sold m l^i aad Aea boa g ht 
a farm of sixtT-ih:x?e acres ca Mamr's road, where be iifgnTFicd ifteeo years. 1^ 18G& 
he said this farm ar:d bougit bis present piace <^ 1(W aers^ a fine dairr farm, widb a 
beaatifol Te5iden.5e. He is tbe father of three cii!di«n, two are now brii^: Haniet 
L, now M.'^ Jobs Cxvk, bom March 10, ISac.; Hemrr J., bom Januair 27, ISaS. Tte 
eon Iter lest. G««rse L. bom December 1. 1SS9, was killed br a barse Jnhr 31, 1S72, 
Mrs. C»liics died March 15, iSSi Mrs. Cook, thesr daiigiter. Sres with her &ibeT to 
eoafort and care for him. She is the mother of three <^iildren : Sarah G. Staler, bora 
December 29, 1S76 ; WHEarn H. Coot bora, October 26, ISS; ; DeBa B_ died JLprH 13, 
1SS9. tbnee rears okl Mr. Ca3]iBS has aiwaiys beea a haiid-worki^ farmer and be is 
BOW rewarded br baritig a rery fiae proper^, aad b«i^ rasperted by a a ^gMwife aad 
friends. 

C2ai^ Wafiam, Amstadam, Tatt Johnsoa p^ Ol, vk bora ia PeiA Jaty 1a, 1S«9|, 
and is a SOD of Jbs^ aad Cbaiity (EBae) Ghtk. Joseph was a eoa of George Cfark, 



FAlOLr SK£TCHS& 271 

v^ eMM t* ^s oeaBiij from Sc«da2>d a ISOL, aad loeMted ia PeiA; W ■■nitJ 
sc«0B iter te aninl. Vanr Mvor. ds^ie? ci Jobn If ^or ot CharinM. Tfcej kai 
«^t 4 fciWif . fev ef wImmd stf St^: G«<(«:^<e. bow Eri^ «■ A« oU howttwirf; 
Mu^arecCmpbel of Jebastows : Jaz» ^cTeas of Cak<doa3a; and Josqik, faiber of 
««- saitgeix, bora Maj 17. 1S1& He was same^ Maj SU 1SI3. n^ had fT« daS- 
AcB. four ai« Criasr: Sanh J.. Mi& IL SrcOr Mocre: Haasak £^ Mrs. Obafah 
W3de : Jazses X. of ilus wwa ; aad WTnian. Mrs;. Oaik, tbea- »ocber. died Mareh 
I€L ISSS. saxTT-^iit T«ais of i^e. Ti]« earir £fe of Uitisan -vas ${«si ie tbe loara 
«f AagsiMiii— I, fiOs paneBis eane l>e9« frvae Perdi vbes }>e was bm fax j^eais oU. He 
VK efacsamdl ia tb» pabfic schools of ths tova. asid be-^«e<d bi$ faiber oa ike fas». 
D eoMB h e r 17, 1S79. )>e aaarned Hame Pams of Jokssaovs. alter vkiek be assaased 
«oeiTol of ^e £arB vkci« be aov Sres. a Sue dairr asd grvs fara of IflO acres. la 
1S91 ill. C3eii ar^ elected s^xmsor of ibe tow of Amste3da■^ ^Ml re-^rrted ia 
159^ arkack Au»b liis popalantT anih ike osbsbs of tkk piaee. 

Harst. Hearr, Tribes Hau ^TslerB IB A- ■-- A-- •; "*-' < - - ^ a sea of Hearr 
aad ESnketk Haest. Ike aaeestots of il - ^ of InSaad, aad 

caaae w> As ou aia uj aa ITTft. Use fuiier : .Jdiea. tkiee ai« 

Srjag: Mis. €ea>«e Featberir of A2t«rT • ia.-^e^ ■?,' .-.itii Coarse oi SbBskac, Waska^ 
Ma uuaaitj; larf oar sa^^eca. Hesiy. wbcee ea£T lue txs fr«si at boaoe ssui kjs isa- 
Tea& bo^ dMd. He aras xhea bat sine rears oCil aad was oit^ed to ewe ftr himrrlf 
Wken ke vk sxteea ke c am w Tribes B£a vbere kis Irotker Josqsb kad a Harfr 
sautk skof). aad ke kei^wd kka kere and ia Jo&2iaam imia 1S3S. Oa Febcaanr 9l 1SS3, 
ke aanied Haaaik Oooper, ihnn^g.fcif.i of Jaates aad CadienBe (Pamaa) Cooper of Ais 
pbee. Tkey kare ax (iadrea: Janes H- bora Onober St. 1SS3: OErer. bora A]«l 
li, l^S; Cb«ri€s X. bota S«reiBber 37. li«0: Sank C- sov Mis. Lee Emsaager off 
F^aakfen. lad., bota Itme IB, 1SS3: Fraaees C, aoar Mrs. Heerr MiDer of Tribes 
1^ bora XovieMber 27, 1S67 ; aad Mar, bora Decmber ^ 1S71. flftri liiii niii^tT 
Mr. Hais gaT« ip blal ■hkiafe aad leatacd ike SMee-oaner's trade, ariiieb ke W 
anea foOBvcd. b 1^3 ke aad kis brMker-kh4av, iTBsaa Pataaa, opeaed a aaae 
ijaaiiy oa Bodkj kOl ; Aey eoadacted Iks £t« reais: after lias Mr. Bant coa d a u ed 
tkebarianii- aieae. Ia I8G9 ke bo^kt of Jaae F^^ier a qaurj of five acscs, fra« 
v^iek ke kae fiBed eaamcts Sar triaaw^ stoie, soae of ike best badlA^ a tke val- 
W benif farakked fnaa tkK qfaanr;. Ike fine aaaae is aov Hcenr Han« & Soa, ais 
SGaOBrerbeiBgeoaaeelcd vhkkiak. Jan^ H. aras edacBicd &r a laarjer ax Coiael] 
ran«(»7, aad ia aoa- ia Earope. Mr. Harss kas bait one of tke fiaea tesideBefs ki 
tkeaova, i» JBasnaooa of wbat aaibitJoa, iadBsirj aad tkrift -ciS do &r a saa. 

Umtvwet, Lewis Begeae, HagiBaa s MiBs. was bore at H^aaaaa's MSk. Ooober 
3ft, lasa. HQb eariy We araa ^eat oa ks bmkfjace, vkere ke ebtused ike beA eda- 
catjoa pnnriWt to be kad » dw rn— iii sckoo3s of ikat T ji g t. Jahf 17. 18£«. ke 
aarted. ia rraapiur wiA F. W. Wwnaaa. a dioddr aaiD at arkat k aov Hairowers, a 
*"▼*« i M ' fe i . of 3S0 Bkafcitaats, wkose peopie ^ fiad e ^pyaBent wiii Mr. Har- 
lewer. Mr. WaMHaa kai^ left ia ISSl. Ia tkal rear iker besw tke asaacfactav 
«f kak goods. vUek kas beea Tety prai|Krcns. Levis £. is a soe off Peter H. aad 



272 HISTORT OF MONTGOMERY COUXTT. 

Mary J. (Pawling) Harrower. Jannary 12, 1888. he married Sarah J. Pitts of Balls- 
ton, and they are now the parents of three children : Margarete P., horn April 14, 
1890; Mattie Estella, born May 18, 1891 ; and Lewis Eugene, jr.. born March 13, 1892. 

Maynard, A. J.. Hagaman's Mills, was born in Elmira. May 30, 1857, and is a son of 
John B. and Mary (Smith) Maynard. When he was six years old his parents moved 
to Little Falls, where he attended the public school until he was twelve years old. when 
he entered Fairfield Academy, where he spent five years. He then went to J. Stitts's 
woolen mill to the wool sorter's trade, going from there to S. B. Stitts to take charge 
of the wool room for eight years. In 1S75 he went to Philadelphia for the same com- 
pany to grade and buy wool in the west In 1880 he setiled in Hagaman's Mills, sort- 
ing wool at first, then taking charge of the seaming room until ISSS, when he started 
a general grocery store. Mr. Maynard has added to a small stock and small trade, un- 
til now he controls a large double store well stocked with everything in the line of 
groceries, crockery, flour, feed, etc. On November 4, 18S3. he married AdaMcClellan 
of this place, who Uved but seven years after her marriage, dying August 14. 1890, 
leaving no children. 

ColUns, Tunis v., Amsterdam, was bom in Lyme, Jeflerscn county. June 3, 1838, 
and is a son of John 3. and Mary (Nott) Collins. His parents had previously lived in 
Amsterdam and came back here in 1849 and settled about a mile east of Hagaman's 
Mills on a farm of 108 acres where they have since resided until the death of his father, 
John S., which occurred January 25, 1892. Tunis left home at the age of twenty-one 
and rented a farm near Hagaman's Mills where he remained two years, when he and 
his brother Stephen bought what is now the Elmwood farm, consisting of 150 acres, 
now owned by Stephen Collins. The brothers worked this farm twelve years, during 
which time they bought the farm known as the Truman Brown place of sixty-five acres. 
In 1877 the brothers dissolved partnership, Stephen retainmg the Elmwood farm, and 
Tunis taking the Brown place and the difference in money, which he traded with 
Georse Herrick for the farm of 145 acres where he now resides. On July 3. 1863, he 
married Rachel Shedd of Jefl^erson county, who lived less than three years after her 
marriaee. On February 17, 1S70, he married Elinor Hagaman, daughter of Nicholas 
and Isabel (Main) Hagaman, and they are now the parents of three children : James A., 
born March 16. 1875 ; George H., born Angu.n 14, 1876 ; and Harlan M., born August 
16. 1878. 

Johnson, Mrs, T. P.. Manny's Corners, was bom in Amsterdam, June 1. 1832. and is 
a daughter of F. D. and Anne (Cooley) Tan Wermer. Her father was bom in Amster- 
dam in 1806 and her mother two years later in Florida. Egbert Tan Wermer, grand- 
father of Mrs. Johnson, was one of the first settlers m Montgomeiy county. His wife's 
name was Elizabeth De Graflf, which name is one of the oldest in the history of the 
county, appearing in all the old records. Mrs. Johnson secured an education in the 
public .<!chools of Florida and at the early age of twenty-two. August 10. 1854. she was 
married to Thomas Payne Johnson of Amsterdam, son of John and Patience (Scribner) 
Johnson, who came to this town in 1797 when Thomas was but three years old, from 
Balston. Mr. Johnson's noted name was f-.ven him from Thomas Payne, who was an 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 275 

intimate friend of liis father. T. P. Johnson died March 11, 1884, aged ninety years. 
His whole life was spent on the farm with the exception of about six months in the 
army durin? the war of 1812, and a few years he worked at the blacksmith's trade. 
His father's name appears as one of the revolutionary soldiers. Mrs. Johnson lives on 
and manages the farm left her by her husband. 

Lepper, Charles W., Fort Johnson, was born on the farm in the town of Amsterdam 
where he now resides, March 20, 1853, and is a son of John and Mary A. (Murray) 
Lepper. The great-grandfalher of our subject, Frederick, came to this country from 
Germany, and he was the father of six children, of whom Jacob, grandfather of our 
subject, was the oldest. He was born in 1777, and he died June 29, 1855, leaving nine 
children, four are still living : Hannah Shuler of Amsterdam ; Patty McKay of Amster- 
dam ; Margaret Wicks of Starkville, Herkimer county ; and John, the father of our 
subject. The latter was born in this town March 26, 1813. He was married to Mary 
A. Murray, daughter of John Murray of Albany, September 1, 1847, and they have been 
blessed with seven children, four of whom are living : John R. of Bergen county, N. 
J. ; Jacob F. of Fort Johnson ; Catherine, now Mrs. Rollin Zoller of Herkimer county. 
Their father, John Lepper, died December 6, 1891. Mrs. Lepper, his mother, is living 
at the age of seventy-three. Charles has always lived on the old homestead, and Feb- 
ruary 11, 1891, he married Maude Edwards of Ballstou Spa. He has been a prosper- 
ous farmer and a good citizen. 

Herrick, George L, Amsterdam, was born in Florida March 20, 1839, and was edu- 
cated in the common schools; he taught school two winters and was a farmer until he 
was forty-four years old; he has been a resident of this city eleven years, conducting a 
wholesale and retail coal business ; he has been alderman of the second ward two terms,. 
is one of the directors of the Amsterdam Savings Bank, one of the trustees of the M. 
E. church and of the Y. M. C. A. On November 23, 1864, he married Margaret S., 
second daughter of the late Alfred and Margaret (Peters) Birch of Amsterdam ; they 
have three children, two sons and one daughter: Daniel D., Cora L., and Alfred B. 
Mr. Herrick's father, Daniel B.. was also born in Florida in 1810 and married Mary 
Loomis of his native town ; she was born in Massachusetts. They had five children, 
two sons and three daughters : Nancy, Harriet, George L, Alice and Dennison. His 
grandfather, Rufus, father of Daniel D., was also born in that town ; he married three 
times and died at the ripe old age of eighty- four years. 

Dolan, Rev. John W., Mohawk, son of Luke and Mary (Heany) Dolan, was born 
December 15, 1856. He attended school in Albany, graduated from the Syracuse High 
School in 1874, and from Manhattan College in 1878. He was ordained at Troy Semi- 
nary in 1882. and was assistant to Father Hovermans of St. Mary's church of Troy for 
two years. He was at Skaneateles three months, and was assistant to Father Fury of 
St. Anne's church for two years. He then had charge of St. Paul's church at Hancock 
for ten months. In July, 1888, he took charge of St. Cecilia's church of Fonda, and 
also had charge of the Church of the Sacred Heart at Tribes Hill. 

Dockstader, John F., Fonda, was one of the early settlers of this town, and was a son 
of John Dockstader. John F. was born in this town October 25, 1784, and married 



274 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Maria, daughter of John Casselman. She was born May 25, 1791. He was a farmer 
and died March .^, 1858. His wife died October 5 1874. Their two children were 
Catharine and Benjamim, the former being deceased. Benjamin was born July 24, 
1821, and married Mary J. Seaman, by whom he has one child, Benjamin F., who was 
born August 28, 1861. He married Alice M. Hopey, and they have four children : Edna 
M., James S., Kate, and Walter D. He is a member of the Jlohawk Valley Grange No. 
579, and is master and purchasing agent of the lodge. 

Sanford, D. Halsey, Tribes Hill, was born in Amsterdam February 12, 1835, and is a 
son of George and Catherine A. (Stanton) Sanford. George was a son of Hugh San- 
ford, who came to this section in 1790 from Long Island. He located at Tribes Hill, 
where he had a blacksmith shop, and afterward a store and hotel near where Zieley's 
hotel is now. November 1, 1795, he married Ruth Halsey, and they were the parents 
of eleven children. Hugh died March 13, 1836, seventy -one years old; Ruth Halsey, 
his wife, August 25, 1866, ninety-seven years of age. George Sanford, their son 
(father of our subject), was born August 6, 1804, at Tribes Hill, and was a wagon 
maker and conducted a business in Amsterdam for many years. He then went to 
Hagaman's Mills to farm it for about eighteen years, then came back to the old San- 
ford homestead, where he died December 5, 1867. His wife, whom he married April 
21, 1830. died March 26, 1S89. They were the parents of two children: Hugh Stan- 
ton Sanford, living in Michigan, and D. Halsey, our subject. His early life was spent 
at home ; he attended public school and finished his education at a select school at 
North Broadalbm. When twenty-one his parents moved to Tribes Hill, where he has 
since lived, with the exception of three years that he conducted a grocery store at 
PittsSetd, Mass. January 4, 1860, he married Mary M. Pettingill of Mohawk, and they 
have two children : Cornelius and Carrie. They also lost two, George and Louella. 
Mr. Sanford has always taken an active part in church work and is a trustee of the 
Presbyterian church at Tribes Hill. He has held many offices of honor and trust in the 
town of Mohawk, and is as much interested in politics as he has ever been. He con- 
ducts successfully a farm of over eighty acres, all under cultivation for hay and grain. 

Lasher, Peter, Mohawk, son of John S., was born in Columbia county in 1802. In 
1807 his father moved to Johnstown and purchased a farm of over 200 acres. He died 
in 1838. Peter grew up on his father's farm. In 1855 he bought a farm of 275 acres 
in the town of Mohawk. In 1861 he had a large farm in Johnstown, and he was con- 
sidered a very successful farmer. He married Catharine, daughter of Cornelius Smith, 
and they had six children : Eli, who lives in Gloversville ; Jennie, wife of Dwight Ger- 
man, and a resident of Schenectady ; Anna, wife of E. C. Quinby, and who lives in 
New Richmond, Wis.; William M., a resident of Fonda; John, deceased; Maggie 
(deceased), wife of Edward S. Horton, a resident of Fonda; Peter, deceased. William 
M. was horn in 1837. In 1862 he went to work for the N. Y. C. R. R. Company at 
the Albany freight house ; after a few months he began as lirakeman on the road, run- 
ning between Albany and Syracuse, which position he filled for two years, when he 
was employed as the western advertising agent of the company, in which capacity he 
served eleven years. He was then appointed conductor for a year, running between 
Albany and Syracuse, after which he was sleeping-car conductor for fifteen years. He 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 275- 

left the road in 1886 and has not since been engaged in business. He is a member of 
Fultonville Lodge, No. 537, F. & A. M., and Fieeport Chapter 27 of Freeport, III., and 
of Freeport Commandery, Knights Templar. The Lasher house is the oldest in the 
town, having been built by Jellis Fonda more than a century ago. It is still in good 
condition and is noted for its grand prospect of river scenery. 

Brown, Rev. George W., Mohawk, son of Augustus and Jane (Dingman) Brown, 
was born at Canajoharie February 14, 1850. He was educated at Canajoharie Acad- 
emy, Cazenovia Seminary and Syracuse University. In 1876 he was stationed at 
Corinth, Saratoga county, and has been engaged in the ministry ever since. Iin 1884 
he came to Fonda, returning after three years. He taught school for seven terms be- 
fore he began his ministerial work. In 1877 he married Florence Owens of Corinth. 
They have one child, Frederick. Augustus Brown was born in Hanover, Germany, in 
1809, and was a metal-worker by trade. In 1832 he came to America and settled in 
Canajoharie. When the Erie canal was widened he contracted to furnish a large quan- 
tity of stone for that work from Onondaga quarries. In 1844 he married Jane Ding- 
man of Charleston. Two of their children are living, Rev. G. W. and Tina, both re- 
siding in Fonda. He died May 27, 1890. His wife is still living with her son. 

Whitraore, Peter, Fonda, was a small boy when the revolution broke out, and wa.'^ 
taken prisoner by the Indians, with the rest of the family. After they were released 
Peter went to live with a Mr. Tost in the town of Johnstown, and on coming of age 
married a Miss Boshart and bought a farm, residing in Johnstown during his life. He 
died aged about forty-five. He had three sons: John, Jacob and George, and six 
daughters. John, the oldest son, was born August 16, 1802, and resided in Johnstown 
until after he became of age. He then married Mary Wert of Johnstown, and after 
two or three years bought the farm now owned by his son John. He held the office 
of assessor, also highway commissioner and other offices. He died February 9,1872. 
His wife, who survives him, was born September 13, 1803, and had six children : Peter. 
John, George, Hannah, Margaret and Eliza. Hannah and Eliza are deceased. John 
was born on the farm where he now lives, April 4, 1838. 

Schuyler, Hamilton, Mohawk, son of Richard, was born in 1813 in the town of Mo- 
hawk, and married Magdalen Nare, by whom he had two sons and four daughters. He 
held the offices of supervisor, commissioner of highwaj's, and other town offices. He 
was a successful farmer, and died July 31, 1882. His wife died in June, 1880. James- 
C, son of Hamilton, was born September 2, 1845. and resides on the farm where he 
was born. He received a common school education. In 1871 he married Alida Gar- 
lock, daughter of Peter Garlock of Canajoharie, and they have three children : Nellie 
G., Carrie D. and Arthur H. Mr. Schuyler clerked in a store for a few months, and 
the rest of the lime has been engaged in farming. He is a member of Mohawk 
Grange. 

Sanderson, Frederick N., Fonda, son of Jonathan B. and Mary (Nahre) Sanderson, 
was born June 30, 1853, in Glen. His father died when Frederick was young, and he 
had to earn his own hving. He received only a common school education, and learned 
the painter's trade, which he has since carried on. In 1888 he opened a store in Fonda, 



276 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

and in 1890 he was elected trustee of the village. December 7, 1882, he married Jennie 
Rupert. He is a member of Lodge No. 121, of the order of Red Men; also a member 
of the Reformed church at Fonda, and his wife of the Baptist church of Fultonville 

Siver, Henry, Mohawk, a son of Christopher and Frances Siver. was born in Guilder- 
land, Albany county, January 26, 1847. He received a common school education, and 
at the age of twenty went with Swan & Sons to learn the marble business, remaining 
with them five years. In 1870 he came to Fonda and worked here several years, open- 
ing a shop in 1882, where he has since been engaged. Mr. Siver has held the office of 
overseer of the poor six years ; village clerk three years ; is a member of K. of P. and 
G. A. R. In January, 1864, he enlisted in Company C, Seventh New York Volun- 
teers, and saw service in five battles, being wounded at the battle of the Wilderness. He 
received an honorable discharge in August, 1865. Mr. Siver married in 1879, Maggie, 
daughter of Henry Rulison. 

Brown, G. W., Fonda, was born in 1854 in Decatur, was educated at the public 
schools, and learned the trade of harness-maker. In 1875 he came to Fort Plain, and 
was foreman of a shop. In 1879 be came to Fonda and worked in the same business. 
He has been town clerk two years, and m 1889 was elected justice of the peace, which 
position he now holds. He is the trial justice of the town. In 1891 he married Ida, 
daughter of D. H. Serviss. Mr. Brown is a member of the order of Red Men, the K. 
of P., the Royal Arcanum, and of the fire department. 

Schuyler, Alonzo, Fonda, son of Richard, was born in Mohawk in 1822, where he 
spent his life. He married Sarah Wemple and had seven children, two of whom sur- 
vive : Richard W. and John D. Alonzo died March 30, 1890, and his widow survives 
him. They are members of the Reformed church at Fonda. Richard W. was born on 
the farm, where he now lives, August 19, 1880, and married Libbie Ingraham, by 
whom he had two children, Sarah and Jennie. His wife died in 1880, and later on Mr. 
Schuyler married Libbie Van Antwerp, by whom he had two children : Alonzo, who 
died in 1887; and Roy. 

Schuyler, John, Mohawk, a son of Richard Schuyler, was born January 28, 1826. In 
1849 he married Delia, daughter of William A. Suits, and they had one child, Libbie, 
wife of John Way. Mr. Schuyler died in April, 1883, and his wife resides on the home- 
stead farm. 

Lottridge, William, Fonda, son of Robert, was born in Mohawk, and lived and died 
on the same farm. His death occurred January 18, 1876. His wife (deceased) wag 
Evaline, daughter of Richard Schuyler. Of their five children, three survive : Richard, 
Robert, and Sarah M., wife of H. D. Hanson. Richard was born May 14, 1848, and 
has always resided in Mohawk. He is a farmer, and has been twice elected commis- 
sioner of highways. He married Sarah C. Davis, daughter of Robert Davis, and they 
have five children : Eva D., Anna Mabel, Jennie, Sarah Florence, and Nina. 

Everson, Adam A., Fonda, son of Adam, was born in this town April 6, 1817. On 
April 23, 1835, he married Elizabeth Lathers, and they had a family of four children, 
as follows : Nancy M., Hannah E., Rachel M., and Amanda C. Mr. Everson is a 
farmer. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 277 

Lefler, Martin, Tribes Hill, son of Michael, was born on the old Lefler farm about 
1812. He married Harriet StoUer, by whom he had four children. He was a manu- 
facturer of soap. Byron, son of Martin, was born December 19, 1845, and on August 
1, 1862, he enlisted in Company B, 153d New York Volunteers. He was wounded at 
Winchester, and was honor.'vbly discharged in October, 1865. In February, 1867, he 
married Emily, daughter of Jacob Heagle, and they have four children : Libbie, wife of 
William P. Dillenbeck, re.'^ides in the town of Amsterdam ; Edgar, Jay, and Charlie, 
the latter three residing at home. The family is of German descent, and Mr. Lefler 
follows farming. 

Nellis, Peter, Fonda, son of Peter, was born in 1814. He is a blacksmith by trade, 
as was his father before him. Tlie latter was a soldier in the war of 1812. He had 
thirteen children. Peter, jr., married Sarah Nestle, and they had thirteen children. 
His wife died in 1869. Benjamin Nellis, son of Peter, was born September 26, 1835, 
in Palatine. In 1855 he removed to this town. In 1856 he married Catharine Gramps 
of Palatine. Mr. Nellis is a large farmer and cheese maker, having built a cheese 
factory on the farm in 1875, with a capacity of 150 cows. 

Hanson, Daniel N., Tribes Hill, son of Nicholas, was born in Mohawk, on the old 
Hanson farm, in 1795. He married Gertrude StoUer of Mohawk, and they had seven 
children, five sons and two daughters. He died in 1867, and his wife in 1861. The 
children were : John D., Henry D., Charles, Peter, Mary, Elizabeth, and Nicholas, the 
latter two deceased. Henry D. Hanson was born May 27, 1838, and has always re- 
Bided on the home farm. He married Sarah M., daughter of William Lottridge, in 
1862, and they have five children : William, Charles, Gertrude, Clarence, and Bertha. 
Mr. Hanson has been town collector one term, and has always been engaged in farm- 
ing. Nicholas was a soldier in the revolution, and was taken prisoner and carried to 
Canada. His house was twice burned by the Indians. After the war he sold his 
property and went to Ohio. 

Zieley, David, Tribes Hill, son of Adam and Rebecca (Putraan) Zieley, was born March 
15, 1827, in Florida, but has resided in Mohawk the most of his life. He married Sarah 
Whitmore, by whom he had three children, two of whom are living, Maggie and Bertha. 
Mr. Zieley is a farmer, and built a hotel at Tribes Hill. Adam, son of David, was born 
in Florida, and married Rebecca Putman, by whom he had three children, two daugh- 
ters and one son : David, Mary and Rebecca. Jacob Whitmore, son of Peter, was 
born September 28, 1806, and married Catharine Getman, who was born December 28, 
1815. They had six children, three of whom survive : Peter, who resides in Nebraska; 
Margaret Van Husen of Johnstown ; and Sarah, wife of David Zieley, who resides in 
Tribes Hill. Mr. Whitmore died in 1574. 

Fonda, Douw, came from Schenectady before the revolution, and settled on the site 
of Fonda village, which was named for him. He was killed by the Indians while sit- 
ting on his own door-step. His grandson, Peter, was born in Fonda, was a farmer, 
boatman, merchant and slave owner. He married Belinda Weaver of Albany county 
and had eleven children. Jacob, son of Peter, was bom in Fultonville May 2, 1808, 
and died August 22, 1883. He married Catherine Quackenbush, February 3, 1829, and 



278 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUXTY. 

had five children : Peter J., Mary C, John Scott, George Wilkins and David Scott. 
Jacob followed boating on the Erie canal for several years ; was repair contractor on 
the Chemung canal in lS5o-o7, and conducted a coal business in Fultonville for twenty- 
five years, beginning in 1857. His oldest son, Peter J., and the only one now living, 
was born August "26, IS29, and has always lived in Fultonville. and has followed boat- 
ing on the Erie canal for forty years. In 1854 he married Catherine, daughter of Lam- 
bert Huguenin. They had four children: William C, Cora A., Chester and George, 
two of whom are deceased. He was a constable one year, and deputy sheriff three 
years. William C. Fonda, son of Peter J., was born January 25, 1S58. He has been 
engaged in the mercantile business and different enterprises most of his life. June 29, 
1S82. he married Ella Van Antwerp. She died January 7. 1892. 

Wemple, Simon, Mohawk, Fonda p. o., son of Ephraim, was born October 16, 1841, 
on the farm where he has always resided. In 1S68 he married Mary Harriet, daughter 
of Nicholas Dorn of Johnstown. They have had six children : Delilah, Ida May, Lib- 
bie. Stella, Laura and Hattie. The family belongs to the Reformed church at Fonda. 
Ephraim A. Wemple, son of Aaron, was bom in this town in 1807. When he was five 
vears of age he was adopted by his uncle, Jacob H. Doxtater, with whom he lived and 
became heir to the property. In 1830 he married Ida Williams, who bore him six sons 
and three daughters. He operated a farm of 290 acres. He and his family were mem- 
bers of the Reformed church at Fonda. He died in January, 1877 ; his widow is still 
livine, over eighty years of age. The following children are living, namely : Henry 
iu the town of Mohawk : Jacob, a large farmer near Kansas City ; Eli, a manufacturer 
of cider and vinegar in Johnstown ; Sarah A., wife of Simeon Nare, in Mohawk ; and 
Simeon, a retired farmer of Fonda. 

Griffin. William, was born in Riverton Cottage, County Galway, Ireland, about 1780. 
He was a colonel in the English army. In 184S he came to Port Hop>e, Canada, and 
died there in 1853. His sons. William and Thomas, came with him : both are deceased. 
William married Margaret Murphy of the same place, and died in 1852. William was 
born about 1812 or 1813. He married Alida Brooce, daughter of Philip. Peter Brooce, 
a native of France, came to Glen before the revolution, and settled near Auriesville . he 
was a farmer, and did boating to Schenectady. His son Philip was born in 1792 and 
was a farmer. He married Charlotte Goff. and had a family of seven children, four 
daughters and three sons. Alida, the oldest daughter, was bom in 1826. and married 
in October, 1848, William Griffith, and had three children : Philip. William and Char- 
lotte, who died in infancy. Philip Griffith, son of William and Alida (Brooce) Griffith, 
was born m Port Hope, August 10, 1851, and when two years of age came to Fulton- 
ville with his father, who died there in 1855. In 1874 he married Mary A. Griffin, who 
bore him seven children, five of whom are living. In 1SS5 he built the Mohawk Valley 
hotel, which carries on himself. He kept a boarding-house seven years for contractors 
on public works. 

Overbaugh, Charles, Florida, the oldest of seven children of Nelson and Eleanor (De 
Forest) Overbaugh, was born in Florida October S, 1844, the other children being Ben- 
jamin, Myron, Allen (deceased), acd M. Louise, now Mrs, Haslett McClumpha, Mary 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 279 

L., now Mrs. Gilbert McCluniplia, and Augusta E. Overbaugli, now Mrs. Daniel Blood. 
Nelson, the father, was born in Charleston. Benjamin, the grandfather, was born in 
Florida, while Benjamin, the great-grandfather, came from New York. Nelson Over- 
baugh died December 26, 1880, leaving but one brother living. Eleanor De Forest, the 
mother, died May 23, 1891. Charles Overbaugh married, January 11, 1871, AnnaSer- 
viss, one of the nine children of George and EUzabeth (Young) Serviss of Florida. 
They have three children, George S., Nelson C, and Mary E. Overbaugh. 

Patterson, I. Frank, Florida, one of two sons of Alexander M. and Jane (Van Epps) 
Patterson, was born in Pattersonville, Schenectady county, April IG, 18G3, the other 
son being John D. Patterson, foreman of an insane asylum in Dutchess county. Alex- 
ander M., the father, was born in Florida February 23, 1833, Jane Van Epps, the mother, 
having been born in Glenville. Seeley, grandfather of Frank, was born in Duanesburg. 
William, his great-grandfather, lived in Florida during the greater part of his life and 
died at Fort Hunter at an advanced age. He was a .soldier in the war of 1812. I. 
Frank Patterson was married on September 22, 1886, to Orpha L. Chesbrough, daugh- 
ter of Ira Chesbrough of Mohawk, she being one of eleven children. Mr. and Mrs. 
Patterson have two children, Ruth and Harold. 

Van Home, Daniel C, Florida, one of five children of Cornelius D. and Adaline 
(Van Home) Van Home, was born in Florida, where he now resides, December 22, 
184:8. The father, Cornelius D., and the grandfather, Daniel, were both born on the 
old Van Home estate, where Daniel C. has always lived and which was one of the first 
settled in this vicinity. He married in 1870, Julia A. Schuyler, one of six children of 
Hamilton and Maggie (Nare) Schuyler of Mohawk. Of their six children, five are now 
living: Carrie (deceased), Adaline, Mabel. Lizzie D., Schuyler and Nettie. 

Kearns, Thomas J., Florida, one of ten children of James and Hetty (Gardneer) 
Kearns, wjis born in Duanesburg on the 12th of December, 1841. James, the father, 
was born in Mohawk ; his mother, Hetty Gardneer, being a native of Kinderhook ; the 
other children are : Esther A., who is now Mrs. Benjamin Streever; Hannah, who is 
now Mr.<. Henry Quant ; Inez (dead); Mary, who married John Grindron ; Alfarett, 
who is now Mrs. Foote ; Peter, living in Troy; Harrison, in Philadelphia; Edwin 
(dead); and Erving in California. Thomas J. was married in 1866 to Minerva Kelly, 
daughter of Robert and Euphema (Aitken) Kelly of Florida, the mother being a native 
of New York. He has lived in Florida during the past thirty years. 

Beveridge, John. Florida, one of four children of David and Margaret ( Keachie ) 
Beveridge, was born in Duanesburg May 5, 1840. David, the father of John, came to 
to this country from Scotland in 1832, and settled in Duanesburg. John was married 
in 1866 to Janette Servoss, one of five children of Charles S. and Christie (McMichael) 
Servoss. They have two sons, James and William, who are being educated at Prince- 
ton College. Mr. Beveridge has lived upon the farm where he is now located since 
1854. 

Milmine, Alexander, Florida, Kline p. o., was born in Florida February 10, 1838. He 
was one of eight children of William A. and Elizabeth (Luke) Milmine of Florida. 
Wilham A. was born on the farm July 6, 1807. His father, John Milmine, was born 



280 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

in Duanesburg and died in Wisconsin. His father, John Milmine, the great-grandfather 
of the subject of this sketch, was born in Scotland. He was the second owner of the 
farm on which Alexander Milmine now lives. Alexander was married in January, 

1861, to Mary PettengiU, a daughter of David and Janett (McKnee) Pettengill of Flor- 
ida, she being one of eight children. They have had two children both of whom died 
in childhood. 

Runkle, Chas. W., Florida, one of the children of Peter and Hannah (Burnap) Runkle, 
was born in Root on the 21st of July, 1853. He was married in Charleston, this county, 
in 1855, to Anna Pierson, daughter of William N. and Elmina (Gordon) Pierson of that 
town. In 1887 he engaged in business with his father in the village of Fort Hunter, 
keeping a general store, where he has lived since that time. They have one son, Roy 
P. Runkle. 

Walrath, Charles, Florida, one of three sons of Josiah and Caroline (Green) Walrath, 
was born in Florida. He married Mary E., daughter of P. Haslett and M. Louisa (Over- 
baugh) McClumpha of Fort Hunter. He is an energetic young farmer, and owns the 
McClumpha homestead at Fort Hunter, where they now reside. 

Schuyler, Daniel D., Florida, the fourth of five children of Daniel and Delanah (Hilts) 
Schuyler, was borr in Florida, the other children being Effie, Maria (Mrs. A. Young), 
Sarah, and Artimitta Schuyler, all single with the exception of Mrs. Young, living upon 
the old homestead. Jacob, the grandfather, was born in New Jersey, as was Daniel 
their father in 1779, and ten years later Jacob Schuyler removed to the farm in Florida 
which the family now occupies and which had been taken up by their great-uncle, Wm. 
Schuyler. The estate has been in the Schuyler family for nearly 150 years. 

Thayer, Hiram, Florida, one of five children of William and Fanny (Griffith) Thayer, 
was born on the 14th of August, 1840, in Florida on the farm where he now lives. His 
father, William Thayer, was born at Log City in Amsterdam in 1802 ; his father, Ezra 
Thayer, moving to Florida when William was four years old ; a remarkable incident of 
the removal being the fact that they crossed the river upon the ice, the date being April 
1, 1806, something probably never done since. Hiram Thayer was married October 22, 

1862, to Anna E. Beckwith of Columbia, Herkimer county. They have two children 
living: Mrs. Georgiana Quiri of Amsterdam, and Edward, who lives with his parents 
upon the farm. 

Staley, T. Romeyn, Florida, was born in Florida upon the old homestead where his 
father and grandfather were also born, and where his great-grandfather, Henry Staley, 
settled when he came to this country from Holland. Garrett Staley, his father, was 
born in 1822. and in 1854 married Maria Van Heusen of this town. In 1879 Mr. Staley 
died. There are three children : Mrs. Joseph Young of Florida ; Mrs. John H. Swartz 
of Amsterdam ; and T. Romeyn Staley, who lives at the old home carrying on the 
business of the farm. 

Van Derveer, W. Spencer, Florida, was born in Florida October 8, 1837. He was 
the seventh of eight children of Garrett B. and Mary (Young) Van Derveer. Garrett 
Van Derveer, his father, was born in this town in the year 1799. His grandfather. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 281 

John Van Derveer, was also born in this town on the old homestead. On the 15th of 
September, 1863, Mr. Van Derveer married Augusta S. Parks, the eldest of eight daugh- 
ters of Joseph H. and Mary Ellen (Howard) Parks of the town of Florida. They have 
four children : Mary E., now Mrs. Chas. Schuyler of Florida ; Catherine, now Mrs. 
Leonard Sweet of Florida; J. Howard, lawyer, located at Fort Edward ; and G. Her- 
bert, who lives at home upon the farm. Mr. Van Derveer has always lived in Florida, 
with the exception of six years spent on a fruit farm in Amsterdam. 

Herrick, Denison, Florida, one of five children of Daniel Davis and Mary I. (Loomis) 
Herrick, was born in Florida in 1850. He was married on the 25th of September, 1872. 
to Annie Gray, one of six children of George Washington and Mary (Bradley) Gray. 
Mrs. Herrick was born in the town of Glenville, her father being a native of Provi- 
dence, R. I., and her mother being born in Florida. They have two daughters, living 
at home. Mr. and Mrs. Herrick have lived upon the farm where they now reside evei- 
since they were married in 1872. 

McClumpha, Alonzo, Florida, was born in Florida May 8, 18i0, being the fourth oi 
six children of Thomas and Caroline (Haslett) McClumpha of this town. His grand- 
father emigrated from Scotland and settled in Duanesburg. On the 27th of Septem- 
ber, 1865, he married Mary Zeller of Amsterdam, daughter of Andrew Zeller. They 
have two sons, Harvey, the youngest, living at home upon the farm. Mr. McClumpha 
has always followed the occupation of farming. In 1891 he was appointed supervisoi 
of the town. 

De La Mater, William, M. D., Florida, was born in Mariaville, Schenectady county, 
on the 24th of September, 1S62, he being one of five children of Marcus De La Matei 
of Duanesburg. He graduated at the Albany Medical College in 1886 and commenced 
the practice of his profession in his native town, removing in 1888 to Minaville. where 
he now resides. In December, 1888, he was married to Martha, daughter of William 
and Martha Dorn. The De La Mater family are remarkable for their devotion to tlie 
medical profession through several generations, and in various branches of the family. 

Wemple, Harvey, Florida, KHne p. o , was born May 17, 1838, on the old Vreeland 
homestead where he now lives. He was one of six children of William C. and Elizabeth 
(McKinney) Wemple; the others being Valentine (dead) ; Harriet (Mrs. Adron Swart, 
Zanesville, Ohio) ; Charlotte (Mrs. John Vedder) dead ; Anna (Mrs. William De Grafl', 
Amsterdam) ; and Vreeland of Zanesville, Ohio. His grandfather, Cornelius Wemple. 
married a Vreeland, and settled on the old Vreeland homestead, where he spent the 
remainder of his life. Harvey Wemple was married December 16, 1862, to Mary E. 
Nellis, one of four children of Alexander and Charlotte (Pulver) Nellis of Florida ; thi- 
others being Alexander Nellis, M. D., at Willard asylum, Marshall E. Nellis, M. D. 
(dead), and Abigail, now Mrs. Peter Pettengill. They have four children : Charlotte D.. 
now Mrs. Daniel P. Phillips; Kitty C, living at home ; Georgena (dead) ; and William 
Alexander, living at home. Mr. Wemple has always lived at home with the single ex 
ception of one year spent in Michigan. 



•-■82 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Fuller, Leslie, Florida, the oldest of seven children of John and Rebecca (De Graff) 
I'liUer of the town of Florida, was born October 10. 1840. Amos Fuller, the grand- 
father of Leslie, was born on the island of Marths's Vineyard, and came to this town 
in early life. He was the second owner of the farm on which he lived, and is believed 
to be one of a family of thirteen sons. Leslie Fuller married Jennie, daughter of John 
and Rhoda (Mory) Merry of Florida, and they have ten children : Alice (Mrs. WiUiam 
Kline of Amsterdam), Melissa, Hattie, Ella May, John, Edna. Charles, Jennie, Dora 
and an infant. Mr. Fuller has resided on his present farm for twenty-eight years. 

Rapp, Gerard Y., Canajoharie, was born in Brooklyn in ISoS. He was educated in 
civil engineering in Brooklyn and after leaving school went into the field ; first on the 
locating of New York and Northern railroad and from thence on the location, con- 
struction and completion of the West Shore and Bufl'alo railroad. In 1879 he came to 
Canajoharie, where he has since made his home. He was employed by the state as as- 
sistant engineer on the Champlain canal improvement from 1883 to 18S6. In the lattter 
year he started the quarrying of stone in his present location, first using but one derrick 
and employing but four men. He gradually increased his capacity until now he em- 
ploys about twenty-five men, a twenty-five horse power engine, two Ingersoll rock- 
drills and five derricks. He has furnished the state with stone in large quantities in the 
enlargement of the locks, also on the Harlem depression and the Albany viaduct, and 
now has the contract for building a dam across the Mohawk river at Little Falls. In 
1884 he married Helen, daughter of John Finehout, and they have two children : K. 
Louise, born in 1885 ; and John P., born in 1SS8. Mr. Rapp is an ardent supporter of 
the Democrat party, a member of Phcenlx Lodge No. 96, F. & A. M. ; Hiram Chapter 
R. A. M. ; and of Little Falls Commandery K. T. No. 26 ; also of the Royal Arcanum 
of Canajoharie. 

Halligan, James, Canajoharie, was born in County Longford, Ireland, May 11, 1836, 
and came to this country in April, 1853. He first located in Troy, where he was en- 
gaged with I. N. Haight, leather dealer, as a book-keeper. He remained with them 
until 1859, then removed to Canajoharie, where, October 28 of that year, he formed the 
firm of Haight & Halligan, for the handling of hides, leather and wool. This company 
was dissolved in 18G9 by Mr. Haight selling his interest to Mr. Halligan. The latter 
has since continued in the same business, and has added to it, dealing in hops and other 
produce. In 1882 Mr. Halligan handled about $100,000 worth of hops alone, besides 
his other business. The average annual business of the establishment for the last few 
years has been about $100,000. In 1865 he was elected overseer of the poor, which 
office he has held two years. In 1867 he was elected town clerk, and supervisor of his 
town in 1869. May 18, 1886, he was appointed postmaster by President Cleveland, 
which position he held four years. Mr. Halligan is president of the HalHgan Steamer 
company, from whom the company derives its name. May 6, 1853, he married Eliza 
Halligan, and they have one cliild, Edward J., a book-keeper for Thurber, Whyland & 
Company, New York. ifrs. Halligan died March 1, 1873, and later on he married Julia 
T. Brown of Albany, and they have four children : James, Willie, Emma and Julia. 
Mrs. Julia Halligan died in 1886, and Mr. Halligan's present wife is Eliza J. (Sullivan) 
Halligan of Rochester. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 283 

Dygert, James W., Canajoharie, was born in Palatine Bridge December 14, 1852, a 
son of James H. and Margaret (Van Alstine) Dygert. The father is a native of this 
county, as were also the mother's people, the name Van Alstine being one of the oldest 
in this county. The Dygerts are of German descent. The school days of James W. 
were spent in Canajoharie, where he was educated in the academy. At the age of 
fifteen he entered the employ of Babcock. Lintner & Co. of Little Falls, where he acted 
as clerk for six years. He then went to Moberly, Mo., where he was clerk in a drug 
store until 1876, when he returned to his native village and entered the drug store of J, 
N. Snell, where he acted as clerk. He was in business with Howard Seeber for a short 
time, and in the .spring of 1883 established a drug store where the Shaper Block now 
stands. In 1888 Mr. Dygert formed a partnership with W. S. Bellinger, by the con- 
solidiition of the two stores, and the firm of Bellinger & Dygert was formed. They have a 
very pleasant store in the Richmond Block, where they carry a complete line of drugs, 
with the side hnes always necessary in a country town. In 1881 Mr. Dygert was 
elected on the Democratic ticket to the office of town clerk ; was re-elected in 18S2, 
and again in 1887 and 1888. In 1891 he was elected by a majority of seventy-one foi 
supervisor, and in 1892 was re-elected to the office over one who was considered the 
strongest man in the Republican ranks. In 1876 he married Anna, daughter of Cor- 
nelius Van Alstine of Marshville. He and his wife are members of the Reformed church, 
and Mr. Dygert has held the office of secretary in the Sunday-school for twenty 
years. 

Crough, Timothy. Canajoharie, was born in Canajoharie August 1, 1845, and is a son 
of Thomas and Margaret (Madden) Crough. Thomas was born in County Tipperary, 
Ireland, coming to this country at the age of nineteen. He settled in Canajoharie where 
he followed blacksmithing, near the present location of the Petlit Manufacturing Com- 
pany. Before coming to the United States he married Margaret Madden, by whom he 
had three children : Mary, wife of Joseph Pegnin of Clinton, Oneida county ; Ellen, 
widow of Bart. Smith of Canajoharie; and Timothy. With the e.xception of ten years 
spent in New York, the latter has made his home in this village. After leaving school 
his first position was with James Halligan, with whom he remained ten years. In 1874 
he was clerk for the canal collector at Fultonville, and the winter of that year he acted 
as assistant sergeant-at-arms of the assembly chamber at Albany, and in 1875 he moved 
to New York where he was employed as clerk for John H. Starin until 1883. He then 
returned to Canajoharie and on October 1, 1883, was appointed agent of the West Shore 
Railroad at Canajoharie. January 3, 1866, he married Sarah A., daughter of Henry 
Stoker of Root, and they have four children, three of whom survive: James H., who 
has charge of one of the B. & 0. firms at Brooklyn ; Edward, a student ; and Herbert 
T. NeUis A. died November 12, 1881, in her ninth year. Mr. Crough is an ardent 
supporter of the Democratic party and is one of its influential workers. 

Klock, Dr. Arie V., Canajoharie, was born in Glen on the 28th of March, 1862, and is . 
a son of Reuben and Martha (Van Wie) Klock, natives of this county and born in Pal- 
atine. The doctor was educated at Palatine and Fort Edward Institute and studied 
medicine at Albany and attended lectures at Albany Medical College. In April, 1890, 



2S4 HISTORY OF MOXTaOMERT COUNTY. 

he came to Ames and has bad an extensive and lucrative practice. Go the 6lh of 
August, 1SS2, he married Hattie D. B., daughter of Charles D. B. and Delilah (Duncan) 
Freer of Palatine Bridge. Her father was drowned in the Johnstown flood in Fulton 
county in 1889. 

Suits, William H., hotel proprietor of Ames, was born in Palatine on the 8th of Jan- 
uary, 1S42, and is a son of John N. and Marie Bell Suits. The father is a native of this 
county and the mother of Schenectady. Mr. Suits was reared on a farm where he con- 
tinued until 1862, when he enlisted in Company F. 2d X. Y. Heavy Artillery and served 
until the close of the war. He was in many hard fought battles and was shot in the left 
foot at Cold Harbor. He was discharged July 4, lS6o, and has since the war been a 
pensioner. For the last fifteen years he has been in the hotel business "uid has recently 
purchased the Ames House, which be has refitted and refurnished in fine style and it is 
enjoying a good trade. On the 25th of December, 1S61. he was married to Josephine 
Tan Patten. They have four children : Alice, William M. C. Ida M.. and Clarence 2v. 
He is a Democrat in politics and is a member of the G. A. R, 

White, Willard J.. Canajoharie, was born in Cherry Valley April 6. ISoo, and is a son 
of Willard D. and Eliza A. (Duffin) White. Abijah, grandfather of our subject, came to 
this section from Connecticut, when a young man. He married Sally Jones of Mont- 
gomery county. They were the parents of sis children of whom Willard D.. the father 
of our subject was the oldest. He was born in 1S25 and married when about twenty- 
five years old, Eliza A., daughter of Barney and Bessie ^Plainer) Doffin of Otsego, and 
they were the parents of six children : Homer H . a doctor of Earlville : Etta, wife of 
O. J. Yan Deusen of Van Deusenville ; Mary E., Charles L.. a farmer of Sprout Brook ; 
Edward D.. pastor of the Seattle Methodist church; and Willard J. The early life of 
the latter was spent in Otsego county, where he was educated m the common schools. 
October 17. 1877, he married Anna L., a daughter of Aaron and Catherine (Lintner) 
Finehout of Minden. She died June 7, 1SS3. In ISSO he moved into this town, 
where be bought a good farm of sixty- seven acres on which the pnncipal crops are bops 
and bay. November 25. ISSS, be married Catiie, a daughter of Martin Yogleman of 
tLis town, and they have one child, Harold D., born May 11, 1S90. Mr. White is an 
active member of the Ame.? Methodist church of which he has been trustee for over 
four years. 

Mesick, Peter A., Canajoharie, was born in Danube, October 4, 1818, and is a son of 
Thomas I. and Elizabeth ( Skinkle ) Mesick. The earliest trace of this family is the 
grandfather of Peter A.. John Mesick. who. in company with his two brothers, came 
to this country from Germany previous to 1 750. and settled in Ghent, Columbia county. 
He was the father of four children : John, Peter. Thomas I. and one daughter. Thom- 
as I., the oldest son and father of our subject, was born in Columbia countty. May 20, 
1786, and married when about twenty-four years of age, Elizabeth Skinkle of the same 
county, who was born October 19. 1791. They were the parents of eleven children, 
seven of whom are living: Catharine, widow of John S. Bellinger of Little Falls; Cat- 
aline, widow of John Miller of Michigan; Cornelia, wife of WiUiam Zimmerman of 
Minden: Rachel, wife of Lvman Hake of Ames; Henrv. a farmer of Danube; and 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 285 

Peter A. The early life of the latter was spent in the tovrn of Danube, and be was 
educated in the common schools. October 13, 1S53, he married Eliza, daughterof Peter 
and Catharine (Elwood) Snell, and they have had three children ; Luther S., a farmer 
of Oanajoharie : Mary C, wife of Charles Staley of Sharon ; and Cyrus P., who con- 
ducts the old homestead farm. In 1854 Mr. Mesick moved into the town of Minden, 
where he bought a farm and conducted it for eight years. He then bought the farm 
where he now lives. Mr. and Mrs. Mesick are members of the M. E. church at Ames. 
Cyrus P. Mesick was born at Frey's Bush (Minden) May 28, 1860, and was educated in 
the common and graded schools at Ames. January 25, 1882. he married Libbie, daugh- 
ter of James and Jane (Balmath) French of Argusville, and tliey have had two children, 
a daughter who died in infancy, and a son, Theron A., born May 15. 188G, and who 
died June 27, 1892, a most severe blow to this young family. 

Tillotson, Mrs. Prudy M., Canajoharie, a daughter of Hiram and Electa (Marble) Til- 
lolson, is the widow of the late Samuel Tillotson, who was born on tlie homestead farm 
June 6, 1821, being a son of Ebenezer and Susan (Johnson) Tillotson. The founder of 
the family in this country was Joseph Tillotson, who came from England and settled in 
Connecticut. But the earliest we can find of the ancestry is the grandfather of our 
subject, Samuel Tillotson, who was boru in Connecticut in February, 1760, and married 
when he was twenty-seven years of age, Ann, daughter of Isaac Johnson of the same 
State. Samuel was the first of the family to come to this town, where, about 1800, he 
bought a farm. He was the father of four children : Polly, born June 9, 1789 ; More- 
house, born March 9, 1791 ; Ebenezer, born February 23, 1793; Pliny, born April 28, 
1804. Ebenezer, the second son, married January 16, 1820, Susan, daughter of Isaac 
Johnson of Connecticut, and they were the parents of four children : Samuel, Phoebe 
A., Eunice, Mary D. The whole life of Samuel (husband of our subject) was spent on 
this farm. He was educated in Ames Academy, and October 5, 1857. married Prudy 
M. Tillotson of Chenango county, a second cousin of Mr. Tillotson who died July 14, 
1871, without heir. The old homestead, which Mrs. Tillotson still conducts, contains 
about 200 acres, nearly all under cultivation for hay, grain and dairy products. They 
have a dairy of seventeen cows, and everything shows Mrs. Tillotson's executive ability. 

McKinney, John, Canajoharie, was born in Canajoharie June 3, 1847, and is a son of 
Daniel and Catharine (Lone) McKinney. Daniel McKinney was born in County Derry, 
Ireland, in 1810, and came to this country m 1833, first locating in Montreal, whence 
he came to Troy, remaining but a short time, when he came to Canajoharie. There he 
married, in 1842, Catharine Lone. They were the parents of four children : Belle, wife 
of Thomas Lynch of Canajoharie; Mary A. McKinney of Albany ; James of Sprakers ; 
and John. The early life of the latter was spent in Canajoharie. He was educated in 
the common schools, and his first occupation was that of farming. At the death of his 
father, which occurred April 2, 1889, the farm was left to his brother James, and he 
kept the place until 1890, then sold it to John. September 24, 1878, he married Kancy, 
daughter of John T. and Elizabeth (Shaver) Backer of Palatine. In April, 1887, Mr. 
McKinney bought the Hotel McKinney at Sprakers, of which he has since been the 
landlord. 



2S6 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Mills, Daniel P., Canajoharie, was bom in Washington county October 26. 1S24, and 
is a soQ of Peter and Sarah (Bristol) Mills. George Mills, grandfather of Daniel P.. 
was born in Saratoga county where he always lived. He had seven children. The 
oldest son, Lewis, was a sea captain, and was lost at sea, aged about forty-five years. 
George, the other son, lived in Washington county, where he died in 1SS2. William 
was in the mercantile business at Fort Edward, and died in Wisconsin in 1S77. The 
early life of Daniel P. was spent in Fort Edward. He was a carpenter by trade, and 
married, September 23, 1851. Phoebe A., daughter of Ebenezer and Snsan (Johnson) 
Tillotson. and they have had three sons ; Irwin of Sharoc. Schoharie county : (Tharle*. 
who conducts the homestead farm ; and Reed J., who follows farming in Canajoharie. 
Mrs. Mills died February 9. 1S89. In 1852 he bought a farm in Canajoharie, which he 
traded with C. Johnston five years later, and which has always been the home of Dan- 
iel P. Mr. Mills takes an active interest in the success of the Republican party, and 
has held the office of trustee of Ames Union school. Charles Mills was bom at Ames. 
November 22, 1859. and has always lived in this towTi. May 12, 1866, he married Es- 
tella R., daughter of William H, and Charlotte L. (Thompson) Winne of Gloversville, 
and they have had three children, but one of whom is now living, Frank C, bom Octo- 
ber 30. 1891. 

Hodge, Squire H., Canajoharie, was bom on the farm where he now resides, in Can- 
ajoharie, October 22, 1835, and is a son of Isaac G. and Melissa ( Hill ) Hodge. The 
family is of English anc^try, but as far back as the grandfather of the subject they 
have been natives of this country. His name was Reuben Hodge, and he married Amy 
Haven, by whom he had three sons and four daughters : Abram, Isaac, Jacob, Eeziah. 
Lois, Azubah and Elsie. Isaac, the second son, was born in 1799, and married in 1824, 
Melissa, daughter of WiUiam and Anna (Mills) Hill of this town. Isaac G. was the 
father of eleven children, nine of whom survive : William, a carpenter of Gloversville : 
Ann. wife of James Staley of Sharon Spa; Oscar O. of Herkimer: Rosanna, wife of 
R- A, Bowdish of Brooklyn : Elsie M. Hodge of Brooklyn : Clemen za. wife of W. H. 
Combs of Brooklyn ; Charles E.. a manufacturer of knit goods :n Utica ; Henrietta M., 
wife of Andrew Peck of the firm of Peck d^ Snyder. New York : and Squire H. The 
whole life of the last named has been spent on the farm with the escepnon of fifteen 
years in Ames. He was educated in the academy of Ames, and after leaving school 
taught for three years, and then took up the carpventer's trade, which he followed until 
1877, when he moved back on the old farm and has ever smce conducted it. His father 
died in 1883. September 12, 1860, Mr. Hodge married Hattie, daughter of Lonng H. 
and Maria (Baboock) Tiflany of Ames, and they have had two children : George, bom 
April 2. 1S67 ; Grace, born November 10. 1868. Mr. Hodge is a Repubhcan. and both 
he and his wife are active members in the Methodist church, and Mr. Hodge has held 
the office of trustee in that church over fifteen years. 

Flint, Daniel, Canajoharie, was bom in Canajoharie. within half a mile of his present 
residence. October 25, 1825. and is a son of Adam and Zilpha (Chapell) Flint The 
grandfather of our subject was born in (Jermany and came to this country when a 
young man locating in this town. He was a soldier in the revolution and was the 
father of six children, four girls and two boys. Adam Flint, father of Daniel, was the 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 2S7 

oldest SOD. He was born about 1770: he was married twice, his first wife being Miss 
Potter, by whom he had twelve children, one of whom is living, William Flint, a fanner 
of Cauajoharie. His second wife was Zilpha Chapell. by whom he had fotjr children, 
three of whom are living : Levi, a veterinary surgeon of Canajoharie ; Zilpha, wife of Isaac 
Walrod of Harrison county. Mo., and Daniel. The whole life of the latter has been 
spent within a half a mile of Canajoharie. He was educated in the common schools 
and when he was twenty started out for himself working on a farn:. August 22, 
1S46. he was married to Laney McAllister, daughter of John McAllister of Shen- 
andoah ; their children, eight girls, are all living, as follows : Zilpha, wife of Robert 
Hodge of Dakota; Mary, wife of Robert D. Smith of Fort Plain; Cornelia J., 
wife of Harvey Argersinger of Gloversville: Eliza, wife of Frank Nellis of Fort 
Plain: Esther C, wife of David Baum of St, Johnsville: Armenia, wife of J. Casler 
of Gloversville : Etla, wife of Byron Xelliss of Fort Plain ; and Lime Flint, who 
lives at home. In 1S60 Mr. Flint bought the farm where he now resides. He is a 
supporter of the Presbyterian church at Buel. 

Kocher. Mrs. Eliza J„ Canajoharie, is a daughter of Jacob and Julia A. (^Bowman) 
Drum, and widow of the late Nelson Kocher, who died October 12, 1S86. The latter 
was born in this town July 5, 1S27, a son of Jacob and Xancy (Garlock) Kocher, 
and brother of Peter Kocher of this town. The whole life of Nelson Kocher was 
spent in this town. He married. November IS. 1S54. Eliza J. Drum of Sharon, 
and they had two children : Mrs. Rainford Garlock of Canajoharie, and Georgia A., 
wife of Warren Collins, who conducts the homestead farm, a beautiful place on 
one of the principal thoroughfares of the town. Warren Collins was born in Sharon 
February 6, 1S64. a son of Reuben and Dorcas (Neville) Collins, He was educated in 
Starkey Seminary, and October 29, 1SS4, married Georgia A. Kocher. They have one 
daughter, Florence May. bom September 26. 1S^9. Mr. Collins is an ardent Democrat, 
and the family are all interested in the Baptist church at Ames. 

Bowman, Elisha L., Canajoharie, was born in Homer, February 5, 1839, a son of 
Alvy and Jane (Wessells) Bowman. The great-grandfather of Elisha L. was the first 
of this family in this county. His name was John Bowman ; he was born in Germany 
and was in the revolution. He was the father of several children of whom Robert 
was the grandfather of our subject. This family was one of the earliest to settle in 
this town. Robert married Catherine Bowman and they were the parents of nine 
children, of whom Alvy. the father of our subject, was the oldest : he was born in 1809 
in this town and went to Cortland county when he was about thirty years old. remain- 
ing there but a couple of years He married Jane Wessels, daughter of Abrsm Wes- 
sels of Flat Creek, and they had six children, four of whom are living : Abram W. of 
Cooperstown : Ann Eliza, wife of A. B. Miller of Ames : Hattie, wife of Amos Hess 
of Oswego : and Elisha L., our subject When the latter was but sis weeks old his 
parents returned to Canajoharie and he has lived here since. On the 1st of October he 
married Lottie M. Jones, a daughter of Benjamin Jones of Sharon. They have four 
children : Bertha, wife of Louis Bellman : Cora, wife of Justice Tan Deusen ; Effie J. 
Bowman and Walter E. Bowman. In 1SC6 Mr. Bowman bought his present farm of 
125 acres^ and in 1878 he erected a fine residence. 



288 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Mohawk Valley Stone Company, The, located in the town of Palatine just north ami 
opposite the village of Canajoharie. The company was organized by the co-partner- 
ship of William N. Johnston and Henry A. Shaper, in February, 1888. Two years 
later, July 1, 1890, the company was incorporated, with the addition of A. B. Frey to 
its members. William N. Johnston was elected president, A. B. Frey secretary and 
treasurer, and Henry A. Shaper general manager. This company now controls five 
quarries and employ,"! on an average 175 men. Although they are quarrying stone for 
all classes of work, their specialty is for bridge work and cut stone for buildings. 
Among the many large contracts this company have furnished are about twelve thou- 
sand yards of stone used in the depression of the Harlem Railroad ; the sea wall at 
Governor's Island ; for the St. Lawrence & Adirondack Railroad ; the Lehigh Valley 
Railroad at Geneva, aud their trade extends all through New York State. They have 
about three-quarters of a mile of side track from the New York Central Railroad, and 
they supply this company with a large portion of the stone used in their works. 
Theirs is the largest stone quarry in this state, and they are doing a very successful and 
prosperous business. The machinery used is six steam holsters, sixteen derricks, and 
are now contemplating putting in a large crushing plant. 

Dillenbeck, Yates, Canajoharie, was born in Palatine, near Stone Arabia, March 27, 
1825, and is a son of George and Magdalena (Keyser) Dillenbeck. Andrew, grandfather 
of Yates, was an early resident of Palatine, and was the father of fifteen children, one 
of whom is still living, Betsey Doxtaderof Mohawk. George, the father of Yates, and 
fifth son of Andrew, was born May 4, 1793, and always made his home in Palatine. 
He married, October 20, 1815, at the age of twenty-one, Magdalena Keyser, daughter 
of Henry Keyser of Stone Arabia. They had six children : James, a mechanic of 
Gloversville ; Hiram, a farmer of Steuben county ; Edward, a mechanic of Indiana; 
William, died in 1887 aged fifty-eight years ; a daughter who died in infancy, and 
Yates, the subject of this sketch. The early life of the latter was spent in Palatine. 
He was educated in the common schools and January 1, 1846, married Agnes, daughter 
of Arie and Margaret (Neahr) ^an Wie. They have two children : George, a farmer 
of Glen, and Arie, a traveler for the McCormiok Machine Company of Albany. In 1889 
Mr. Dillenbeck bought the farm where he lives in the town of Canajoharie. Mr. and 
Mrs. Dillenbeck are members of the M. E. church of Canajoharie. Mr. Dillenbeck's 
only desire is to be known as an honest, upright citizen, a good neighbor and success- 
ful farmer. 

Routstone, Jacob, Canajoharie, a native of Germany, came to this country in 1877, and 
after two or three months he began peddling, which he followed until 1882, when he started 
a general store at Brown's Hollow, in Root. He conducted this for one year, and then 
went on the road, selling goods at auction. He followed this for about three years, 
and then opened a store in the Ehle block in Canajoharie, for the sale of notions and 
fancy dry goods. He still conducts this store, and in 1S90 bought out the boot and 
shoe business of S. J. McLaughlin, which in 1892 he removed to the new Shafer block 
on Church street. He also owns a half interest in the ladies' and gentlemen's furnish- 
ing goods store, under the firm of F. J. Stickles & Company. He is one of the leading 
merchants of this village, and is doing a large business. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 28» 

Gage & Company, A. P., Canajoharie, dealers in dry goods, carpets, wall paper, etc. 
This firm was established in 1879 by A. P. Gage, a native of Otsego county, who came 
to this place in 1862, and engaged as clerk with H. S. Bragdon in the store where he 
is now located. He has now as partners Voorhees Bush, who acted as clerk for Mr. 
Gage a great many years, and in 1882 was taken as partner; and also Walter Gage, 
the other partner, who was taken into the firm about 1885. This firm is doing a very 
successful business in what is known as the old Hawley block, now owned by Mr. A. 
P. Gage. 

Vosburgli, Howard, Cananjoharie, was born in Flat Creek March 26, 1850, a son of 
Jacob and Almira (Gardenier) Vosburgh. The early life of Howard was spent in Root. 
He was educated in Carlisle and Whitestown Academies, and September 20, 1871, mar- 
ried Lydia, daughter of William B. and Elizabeth (Diefendorf) Diefendorf. They have 
had seven children: Charles D., a graduate of Fairfield Academy; Arthur J., born 
September 15, 1874 ; Gracie Bstelle, a student of Fairfield Seminary ; William L., born 
October 28, 1878 ; Bertha K., born April 11, 1881 ; Myra M., born March S, 1884; and 
Nellie A., born February 23. 1888. In 1882 Mr. Vosburgh bought the farm where hi- 
now lives of 175 acres, known as the old Dillenback farm. He also owns the old Vos- 
burgh homestead of eighty acres at Flat Creek. For the past six years Mr. Vosburgh 
has held the ofBce of assessor of his town. His family are members of the Mapletown 
church. 

Barnes, Arthur, Canajoharie, was born on the farm where he now resides in Canajo- 
harie, May 4, 1847, and is a son of Luther H. and Caroline (Arthur) Barnes. His 
grandfather, Philander Barnes, came from Massachusetts to this section when it was- 
yet a wilderne.ss. He was born in 1763, and married October 31, 1790, Susan, daugh- 
ter of Elisha and Hannah Hooper. They had six children : Hamilton D., Cynthia. 
Luther H., Sophronia, Mary A., and Norman. Luther H., third child and second son. 
vBas born on this farm in 1806, where his whofe life was spent. He was educated in 
the public schools and when about thirty years of age married Caroline, daughter of 
Levi Arthur of Lewis county, who was the father of seven children : Orlando, a retired 
farmer of Lewis county; Alfred A., retired farmer of Lowville; Levi, died in 1882, 
aged sixty-five years ; Jane, married Samuel Lamphen of Lewis county (she is deceased); 
Melissa, married Daniel Rutan (she died in 1887); Pamelia, wife of Charles Pebbles of 
Lewis county; and Caroline, who died November 16, 1846, in her thirty-fourth year. 
At the death of Philander Barnes, November 9, 1827, the farm was left to the children, 
and Luther H. bought the interest of some of the other heirs, until he possessed a two- 
thirds rnterest in the place. He enlarged the old homestead and turned it into a hotel, 
known as the Halfway house, between Sharon Springs and Canajoharie, and it is oni 
of the historical landmarks of the town. The building of the railroad to Sharon took 
the travel in another direction, and Mr. Barnes gave up keeping hotel, but the building 
still stands as the residence of the subject. He died October 14, 1873. Arthur was 
educated in the public schools and at Ames Academy, and has always made his home 
on this farm, which he still conducts. 



290 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Freday, Ervin W.. Canajoharie, was born on he farm where he now lives, in Cana- 
J >harie January 3, 1S5S. a son of Conrad and Mary E. (Toorhees) freday. His grand- 
father, Conrad Freday. was born in Schodack, Rensselaer county, in 1797, and at the 
age of twenty-four married Lucy Stanton, daughter of Rev. Nathaniel Stanton of 
Bethlehem. They had four children, three of whom reached adult age, and one of 
whom is still living, Jacob Freday of Constantia. Oswego connty. Conrad, father of 
the subject, was the youngest sou. He was born May \i, 1826, in Bethlehem, and was 
educated in the Clarkeville public schools. He came here when twelve years of age, 
and assisting his father on the farm until about a year and a half before his his mar- 
riage, when he went to Clarkville and attended school and clerked in a store. On 
October 5, 184S. he married Mary Elizabeth Toorhees. daughter of Thomas and Hannah 
(Carlisle) Voorhees of Root. After his marriage he bought the farm where his son now 
resides. He had eleven children, five of whom survive: Millard F. of Clinton, la.; 
Sarah C, wife of Oscar Hoag, a tanner of Johnstown ; Franc A., widow of John W. 
Brown of Clark. Da. ; Homer J., a farmer of Canajoharie ; and Ervin W. Mary E., 
wife of Charles Mitchell, died March 16, 1892, in her thirty-ninth year; LadennaO., died 
May 20, 1868 ; Elizabeth, died February 10, 1882, in her nineteenth year: EmmaO.. died 
May 21, 1892. in her sixteenth year. Conrad, father of Ervin 'VT., died January 14, 
1892, beloved and regretted by all who knew him. Ervin W. was educated in the pub- 
lic schools, and December 14, 1881. he married Mary E., daughter of William and Cor- 
nelia (Wessell) Hoag of Argusville. At the death of his father he assumed control of 
the farm, where he now lives. 

Diefendorf. Lucius. Canajoharie. was born at Frey's Bush, January 3, 1834, and is a 
son of Daniel G. and Eliza (Hackney) Diefendorf. The grandfather of Lucius, George 
Diefendorf, was a native of Montgomery county, born in 1779. He married Catharine 
Bell, and they had ten children, three of whom are still hving : Daniel, a farmer of 
Roseboom. Otsego county ; Levi of Michigan ; and William, a retired farmer of Fort 
Plain. Daniel, the oldest son, and father of Lucius, was born in Frey's Bush in Decem- 
ber, 1812. and spent his early life in that place. He married about 1832, Eliza Hack- 
ney, daughter of John and Hannah Hackney. Daniel had twelve children, ten of 
whom survive : Abram of Otsego county ; Delevan of Canajoharie ; William of Min- 
den ; Peter of Connecticut ; Mortimer of Otsego county ; Palmer of Otsego county, 
town of Wooster : Susan, wife of James Isman of Otsego county ; Harriet, wife of 
Joseph Rury of Honesdale. Pa. : Aseneth, wife of Orlando Marks of Otsego county ; 
and Lucius. The latter's early life was spent in Cherry Valley, where he was educated 
in the common schools and assisted his father on the farm until he was eighteen. He 
then spent nine years with his uncle William Diefendorf. In 1859 he married Jane, 
daughter of George Nestle, and she died two years later. In 1862 Mr. Diefendorf be- 
gan f.-irming for himself in Minden, and married October 22. of the same year, Martha, 
daughter of Abram and Nancy (Elwood) Fox of Minden. In 1865 he bought, in com- 
pany with his brother-in-law, David Fox, a farm of 190 acres in Seeber's Lane, which 
they kept for two years, then sold, and bought a farm of 100 acres in Canajoharie. He 
lived here until 1875. when he sold that place and bought the farm where he now 
lives. Mr. and Mrs. Diefendorf are members of the Methodist church at Canajoharie. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 291 

Lasher Brothers, The. — Eugene Lasher was born near S^one Arabia, July 14, 1S52. 
Amandus Lasher was born on the same farm November 10, 1S54. They are both sons 
of Jacob I. and Mary (Shults) Lasher. The members of this family as far back as can 
be traced, have been natives of Palatine. Jacob 1. was born in Stone Arabia, March 
23, 1S05. the son of John Lasher. He married September 18, 1844. Mary Shults. daugh- 
ter of George and Elizabetii Shults of Palatine, and they bad four children : Ann Eliza- 
beth, wife of Rev. Jesse Lirch, treasurer of the Northwestern College of Napleville, 
111.; Emma, who lives at home; and Eugene and Amandus. Mrs. Lasher, mother of 
the subjects, died October 27. 185.5, and Mr. Lasher married second, Eliza, daughter of 
John and Mary (Nsahr) Showerman. Eliza was the widow of Oran Goble, by whom 
she had two children : James, a mechanic of Fort Plain : and Frances C, wife of Har- 
vey Failing. In 1866 ilr. Lasher bought the farm in Canajoharie whereon the subjects 
now reside. These brothers were educated in the common schools of Canajoharie and, 
at the death of their father, which occurred September 19, 1S72. the farm fell into the 
hands of the son.s, and thej' have ever since conducted it. They are regular attendants 
of the Methodist church, of which Miss Lasher is a member. 

Williams, Edwin. Canajoharie. was born in Connecticut, June 12, 1617. a son of 
Thomas and Jemima (Stark) Williams. The first of this family to come to Montgomery 
county was Thomas, father of Edwin, arriving here in 1820, when Edwin was but 
tliree years old. He located on the farm which is now the residence of the grandsons, 
and died there in 1831, aged forty-six. He left five children : Joshua S., who died 
iCarch 29. 18SS. aged seventy-five years; Olive L., wife of Alanson Abel of Canajo- 
harie; Maria, wife of V. "V. Nottingham of Syracuse; Ann Eliza, widow of Rev. Oliver 
Emerson, a member of the Troy Conference of the Methodist church, who died at Wal- 
lingford, Tt., in 1852 ; and Edwin. The latter has always lived on this farm. He was 
educated in the public schools of Canajoharie, and in 1840 married Eliza J., daughter of 
Salmon and Hannah (Waufle) Wetmore of Canajoharie. They had eight children: 
Thomas 0.. a farmer of Canajoharie; Helen 0., wife of A. ^^. Hodge, a druggist of 
Canajoharie; E. Emerson, a farmer of Canajoharie: Eliza J , wife of Dr. James Tonng 
of Johnstown : Henry E. of Walden, and Henrietta (twins) : Hannah J., wife of B. 
Dietendorf of Canajoharie ; and Olive, wife of Eugene H. Abel of Canajoharie. Edwin, 
the subject, died January 19. 1891. He was always a leader in good works and was an 
official member of the Methodist church for over forty years. Mrs. Williams still iives; 
a comfort to her children. She is now in her seventy-third year. 

Williams. Thomas O., was born on the old homestead farm June 9, 1842. He has 
always lived in Canajoharie with the exception of three years during which he con- 
ducted a farm in Root. He was educated in Cazenovia Seminary and Fort Edward 
Institute, and on December 29, 1868, married L. Amelia Fretcher of Syracuse, N. T. 
They have had three children, but one of whom is living, Jennie A., born September 
14, 1876. They are all members of the Methodist church. 

Kirby, Talentine, Canajoharie, was born in New York October 29, 1844, a son of 
Lsaac F. Kirby, a wholesale dry goods merchant and a member of the well-known firm 
of L. V. Kirby & Co. The early life of Valentine was spent in New York. He was 



•292 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

educated in the Elysium School and Mount Kisco Seminary. In 1859 he came to 
CaDajoharie and engaged in the hotel business which he followed four years and was 
four years in the undertaking and furniture business. He then took up carpentry and 
inillwrighting and took contracts for the construction of a great many of the most 
prominent buildings in this section, among them being the building for the Petjit Man- 
ufacturing Company, the Shaper Block, the Smith residence in Palatine, the Philip 
Betts residence in Canajoharie. the residence of Senator Arkell, the rebuilding of the 
Reformed Church, the Canajoharie Union School building and many other smaller 
contracts. In 1863 he married Mary A., daughter of William J. Van Deusen. They 
have two children: Josephine, wife of David I. Snell of Palatine, and Sarah H., who 
still lives at home. 

Lasher, Luke W., Canajoharie, was born in Root, near the village of Sprakers, May 
13, 1840, and is a son of Elias and Lucretia (Wessell.'<) Lasher. The earliest ancestor 
of this family of whom there is any record, was George Lasher of Root. He was born 
about 1775 and married Catharine Acker of Stone Arabia. They had eight children : 
Jacob, George. Elias, Joseph, Maria, Margaret, Catharine and Eliza. Elias, father of 
Luke W., was born January 27, 1808, in Root, where he always lived. He married in 
1835, Lucretia Wessels, daughter of Luke and Vanetta (Van Valkenburg) Wessels. 
They had nine children, as follows: Tenetta C, wife of Henry A. Diefendorf of Root; 
Mary M., wife of William Palmer of Wolcott, Wayne county ; Jennie, wife of Samuel 
Prine of Albany ; Martha, wife of David Ecker of Fultonville; Henrietta, wife of Al- 
bert Hause of Seneca ; Helen, died April 16, 1885, aged twenty-nine ; George L. of 
Wolcott ; Jacob E. also of Wayne county ; and Luke W. The early life of the latter 
was spent in Root. He was educated in the common schools, and January 7, 1869, 
married Mary M., daughter of Benjamin and Sarah J. (Olmstead) Flanders of Root. 
They have had three children, viz. : Benjamin, born May 6, 1876; Jennie E., born 
April 16, 1878 ; Lucy H., born February 21, 1883. After his marriage Mr. Lasher 
engaged in farming at Marshville, where he remained eight years, and then spent two 
years at Ames, after which he bought the farm where he now lives. Mr. Lasher is a 
member of the Reformed church, and for about six years was a deacon. 

Button, Phelps, Canajoharie, was born on the farm where he now resides, August 
24, 1834, and is a son of Mathias and Amanda (Phelps) Button. The grandfather of 
Phelps Button, on the mother's side, vi-as Jonah Phelps, who was born in Connecticut 
and came to this county at the age of twenty-two year-s. He was then married, hig 
wife being Susannah Single. In 1781 he bought this farm of ninety-four acre.s, but 
afterwards added to this until it now contains 223 acres. He had five sons and six 
daughters, of whom Amanda was the fifth child. She was born in 1802. The grand- 
father on the father's side, Benjamin Button, was a native of Connecticut, born in 1758, 
and was a soldier in the revolution under Washington. He married in Connecticut, 
Clari.^sa Hamlin, and they had seven sons and four daughters, of whom Mathias, father 
of Phelps, was the youngest. He was born at Buel, July 6, 1800, and in 1821 married 
Amanda Phelps, by whom he had five sons: Wattson, the oldest, died in 1851, aged 
twenty-five years, leaving a son and two daughters by his marriage with Elizabeth 
Button ; Oliver died March 17, 1892, aged sixty-three years, leaving one child, Frances 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 293 

A. Lambert. Charles H., who re.sides on part of the original farm, married Hannah, 
daughter of Henry Brown of Argusville ; Melvin, who live.s in Ames, married Meli=sa 
daughter of Stewart Pettingill of Gloversville, and they have one son and two daugh- 
ters ; and Phelps, the subject of this sketch. The whole life of the latter has been 
spent on the farm. He was educated at Ames Academy, and December 29, 1856, mar- 
ried Margaret A., daughter of Henry and Magdalen (Putnam) Voorhees, and they have 
five children : Edward, a farmer in Root ; Charles, a dry goods clerk at Fort Plain ; 
Clarence, a farmer in the town of Sharon; Henry, who lives at home; and Lula, who 
also lives with her parents. Mr. Button is an active member of the Baptist church at 
Ames, and is a Republican. 

Smith, John H., Canajoharie, was born on the farm where he now lives, August 19, 
1824, and is a son of Jonas and Elizabeth (Cornue) Smith. The great-grandfather of 
John H., John Smith, was a resident of Albany county in his younger days, and came 
to this county, where he bought this farm in its primitive condition, and on it built a 
log house, which his family (consisting of his wife and six children), occupied until 
there was a mill built there, and lumber cut for a farm house. The boys of the family 
were Simon and Nicholas. The latter was born in Albany county about 1768, and 
came to this town with his parents about 1782. He married Elizabeth, daughter of 
John Van Evera of Canajoharie, and they had six children: John, James, Jonas, Mar- 
tin, Henry and Cornelia. Jonas, father of the subject, was born on this farm, June 15, 
1798, and was educated in the cominon schools. He married at the age of twenty-four, 
Elizabeth, daughter of Peter and Jane (Quenau) Cornue, and they had one child, John 
H., our subject, whose whole life has been spent on this farm. He was educated in 
Ames Academy, and September 17, 1856, married Catharine R., daughter of Philip and 
Delany (Bronk) Smith of Canajoharie. Philip Smith was the son of Simon Smith, the 
brother of John's grandfather. At the death of his father. May 14, 1871, John H. came 
into possession of the old homestead, a property which has been in the hands of his 
ancestors for four generations — over 110 years. It is a fine farm of 160 acres. He has 
a hop yard of about ten acres, employing during the busy season about thirty workers. 
Mr. Smith is a Democrat, and contributes toward the support of the Reformed Church 
at Mapletown, of which Mrs. Smith is a member. 

Shaper, Charles, Canajoharie, was born in Germany and is a son of Henry Shaper, a 
stone mason who came to this country about 1836. Charles at the age of sixteen years 
learned the stone cutter's trade and has ever since been connected with that business. 
In 1849 he opened a quarry, the first of that business at Canajoharie, and it has been 
successful from the start. In 1857 he purchased a tract of land of about fifty acres, in 
the southwest part of the village, which has proved to be a mine of wealth. Mr. 
Shaper has been an extensive shipper of stone to all parts of the state and has done 
much to build up the village. He owns some fine blocks and is a heavy dealer in real 
estate, and besides has operated for the last thirty years an extensive lime business. 
His son, Augustus E., has now the charge of the stone business. Mr. Shaper married 
on the 15th of February, 1849, Elizabeth Bergen, a native of Germany, who came when 
a child to this country with herparent.«. They have six children, as follows: Elizabeth, 



294 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Augustus E., Charles H., Christian D., John H. and Daniel C. Mr. Shaper is a Repub- 
lican and has been a trustee of the village several terms, but has been too busy with his 
business to give much attention to politics. He has been a liberal contributor to the 
chu.'ches and he and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. 

Hatter, William, Canajoharie, was born on the 19th of February, 1829, in Hanover, 
Germany, a son of Lewis H. and Hannah (Hartman) Hatter, natives of Hanover. The 
father was a wagon maker. William was the youngest of five children and at the age 
of twenty-two he sailed for America and settled at Canajoharie, having learned his 
trade in Germany. He at once obtained employment and after one and a half years he 
started in busine.^s for himself with a capital of §150 with Julius Fox, but in two years 
he purchased his partner's interest, since which time he has carried on a successful 
merchant tailoring establishment. He has from time to time added to his business that 
of ready made clothing and a general line of men's furnishing goods. In February, 
1S89, he turned the active management of his business over to his two sons, Albert F. 
and John S., now under the firm of William Hatter's Sons. Mr. Hatter owns one of 
the fine brick blocks of the village in which his business is conducted and other real es- 
tate. On the 14th of August, 1854, he married Elizabeth Munn of Canajoharie, who came 
from Germany at the age of four with her parents, who were Hessians. Mr. and Mrs. 
Hatter have four children : Albert F., married Mary E. Neahr, on the 24th of October, 
1388; John S., who married Jennie Powers, deceased; Lizzie, .ind Lillie, wife of J. C. 
Wheeler, lawyer of Canajoharie. Mr. Hatter is a member of the Masons and Red 
Men. 

Kocher, Peter, Marshville p. o., was born on the farm of his present residence in Can- 
ajoharie May 11, 1822, and is a son of Jacob and Nancy (Garlock) Kocher. Jacob was 
born in Pennsylvania in 1788, his parents being known as Pennsylvania Dutch. He 
married in 1809 Nancy Garlock, daughter of George Garlock of this town, and they 
were the parents of fourteen children, of which six are now living : Benjamin of Can- 
ajoharie ; Elijah of Canada; Elizabeth of Canajoharie ; Catherine of the same place; 
Delia, wife of Solomon Seeber of Ava, Oneida county ; and Peter (our subject) whose 
whole life has been spent on this farm. The family moved here in 1822, and when 
his father bought the farm there were but ten acres, but he kept adding to it until at 
the time of his death (May 16, 1837) he owned 207 acres. This farm was willed to 
George and Elijah, and they conducted it two years, then Benjamin taking Elijah's 
place conducted it with George until 1868, when the latter died, willing his share to 
Jacob and Peter. Two years later Jacob died and since than Peter has conducted it 
alone. There are now 124 acres with a beautiful residence, seven acres are set out 
with hops. December 22, 1875, he married Harriet Ottman, daughter of Christopher 
and Lydia (Hutton) Ottman of Root, and they are the parents of three children : 
George, born May 22, 1878; Bertha E., born January 22, 1884; Peter, jr., born 
April 25, 1887. Mr. Kocher is the excise commissioner of the town, and is a director 
of the Fulton and Montgomery Counties Insurance Co. 

Klinkhart, Amos, Canajoharie, was born in Koenigsen, Saxony, November 8, 1819, 
and is a son of Frederick and Caroline ( Ennist) Klinkhart. Amos was but thirteen 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 295 

years of age when both of liis parents died and he was thrown on the world to care 
for himself. On February 25, 1839, he married Frederica Lehlin, and came to this 
country the next year. He was a potter in G-ermany, but followed distilling after he 
came here for twenty-five years, also working at the mason's trade for some years ; he 
then came to the farm which he bought in 18C0, and is now one of the leading farmers 
in this section, and also conducts an apiary. He has eight children living; Augustus 
of Washington ; Clara Filmer ; John ; Amelia Abeling ; George of Sharon Spa ; Clara 
Countryman of Illinois ; Fannie Vanetta of Utica ; and Henry of Canajoharie. Mr. 
Klinkhart is a staunch Republican, but not an office-seeker — only wishes to be known 
in history as an honest, upright citizen and successful farmer. 

Klinkhart, Henry W., Canajoharie, was born in the village of St. Johnsville, Octo- 
ber 5, 1859, and is a son of Amos and Frederica (Lehlin) Klinkhart. His life has been 
spent m this town. He was educated in the public school, and lived with his father 
until he was twenty-eight years old, when he went into partnership with Charles E. 
Shultze in the butcher business, opening a market on Main street, which they conducted 
three years ; he then sold his interest and started a market in Church street with George 
Bergen, which they still conduct. May 14, 1880, he married Katie Rhynehart, and 
they are the parents of two children : Emma C, born June 9, 1881 ; and Alice F., born 
December 14, 1886. Mr. Klinkart is now the town clerk, serving his second term. He 
was first elected in 1891, and his re-election in 1892, shows his popularity and effi- 
ciency. 

Transue, William L., Canajoharie, Buel p. o., was born in Bucks county. Pa., March 
19, 1838, and is a son of Anthony and Mary (Lambert) Transue. The great-grand- 
father of our subject was born in Germany and came to this country in the seventeenth 
century. Tracing the family down we find the home of the grandfather was in North- 
ampton county. Pa., and the father of our subject was born there in 1803. He was 
married to Mary Lambert in 1824, and they were the parents of nine children. Four 
are living : Franklin of Pennsylvania ; Aaron of Kansas City ; John of South Bethle- 
hem, Pa.; and William, our subject. His early life was spent in Pennsylvania, where 
he was educated in the common school, and at the age of twenty-one learned the 
blacksmith's trade. He followed this fifteen year.=, then came to Sprout Brook and 
bought the Central hotel, which he conducted successfully for sixteen years, then sold 
out and bought the farm of his present location, a fine one of 152 acres. On June 17, 
1861, he was married to Alwilda Winslow of Springfield, and their union has been 
blessed by one child, Ida J., wife of Emerson Eckler. They were married October 30, 
1889, and they are the parents of one child, Howard S., born January 11, 1891. Mr. 
Eckler makes his home with Mr. Transue on the homestead. T'nese gentlemen are both 
interested in politics, but not as office-seekers. It can be said of them, which is the 
highest praise one man can give another, they are good neighbors. 

Hammond, J. Mulford, Canajoharie, Sprout Brook p. o., was born July 25, 1839, in 
Niagara county, and is a son of Thomas and Phoebe (Alulford) Hammond. The grand- 
father of our subject was born in Vermont. His son, Thomas P., was born near Sprout 
Brook February 14, 1812, and married Phoebe Mulford, daughter of Abram Mulford of 



296 HISTORY OF IfOXTGOMERT COUIsTr. 

Long Island. They were the parents of eight children : Sarah F.. wife of John J. 
O'Xeil of Utica : Mary E.. wife of Cobert Dunlap of Johnstown ; Gertrude, wife of 
C. C. Tan Deusen of Van Deusenville; C. A. Hammond, a wholesale fruit dealer of 
Utica ; A. T. Hammond of Canajoharie : Gerard W. Hammond of Canaioharie : Will- 
iam Hammond', who lives here : and Mulford. our subject. When he was a small child 
his parents moved hack to this town. He was educated in the common school, and one 
year in Little Falls school. He helped on the farm until 1S66, when he went to Am- 
sterdam and followed millwrighting three years, retiu-ning here in 1S69. and took con- 
tracts for carpenter work, employing a large number of men until ISSl^; since then 
has conducted this farm, which contains ISO acres, all under caltivatioD. Hay and 
grain are the principal crops, with a large hop-yard of twenty-nine acres, which yields 
him a large profit. He employs thirty to forty laborers during the busy season. Mr. 
Hammond is an active worker in the Democratic party, and has held the office of com- 
missioner for two years. Thomas P. Hammond died in 1S71, sixty-one years of age. 
Mrs. T. P. Hammond died February 27. 1S92, seventy-sis years of age. 

Fox, Oliver, Canajoharie, Sprout Brook p. o., was born near his present residence in 
Canaioharie. April 6, 1S31, and is a son of George and Betsey (Bell) Fos. The grand- 
father of our subject (Richard Fox) came from Germany, but George, his son, was bom 
in the town of Jlinden in 17S4. was married to Betsey Bell in ISOli, and they were the 
parents of twelve children, eight of whom are now living. Oliver, who was the young- 
est child, was educated in the common school, and at the death of his father in 1850. 
he went to live with Squire Dunlap. a native of Connecticut. Oliver bought the Dun- 
lap farm, and Dunlap went to Tirginia. He lived on this farm until 1860, when he 
bought the old Billy Dunlap farm of 172 acres, which he has since successfully con- 
ducted. In 1SS6 when hops were very high Mr. Fox sold 11.000 pounds at ninety 
cents a pound. January 1, 1866, he married Sarah Coleman, daughter of Samuel Cole- 
man of Buel, and they were the parents of seven children, four of whom are living: 
John S. of Richfield, a traveling man; George H.. a farmer of Buel; Kate, wife of 
Cornelius Robinson of Buel ; and Charles D., who lives at home. Mr. Fox has held 
office in his town for over twenty years, and is a supporter of the best man in the field 
of politics. He is interested in the M. E. church at Sprout Brook, and aids in its sup- 
port Charles D. Fox was born November 5, 1862, on the old homestead farm. He 
was educated in tlie common school and has always lived at home. On March 17. 1887, 
he married Xora Shoemaker, daughter of Robert and Nancy (Sternberg) Shoemaker of 
Richfield Springs, and they have one child, Oliver G.. born January 12. 1SS8. 

Mallette. Dr. George P.. Canajoharie, Sprout Brook p. o.. was born in Canajoharie, 
near Ames, September 4. 1831. and is a son ol Philo and Rhoda (Taylor) Mallette. The 
great-grandfather of our subject was one of the Huguenots who escaped from France 
at the time of the religious persecution. The story of their escape is interesting. When 
they left their home they were followed by those who would massacre them if caught. 
Being hard pressed they sought shelter under a bridge, where, in their concealment, 
they heard their pursuers say in passing over, that they would catch them and kill 
them in a piece of wood just beyond. They remained quiet until midnight, and in th» 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 297 

darkness they escaped and soon found passage for America. The son of this emigrant, 
Georire Mallette, was the grandfather of our subject. One of his sons, Philo, married 
Rhoda Taylor. They were the parents of eleven chiUlren, eight of whom are living: 
Jay of Ephratah; Lucretia Wilcox of Canajoliarie ; Daniel P. of Cherry Valley ; Charles 
C. of Springfield: 'William of Colyersville ; James of Unadilla; Charlotte, wife of 
Benjamin Jensen : and our suhject. His life was spent in this town with the exception 
of six year.<. He was educated at Ames Academy, and at the age of twenty-six he 
entered Paine Medical College at Philadelpliia. When he left school he went with Dr. 
Mosher at Riohmondville three years, practiced and studied with Dr. Chase at Warner- 
ville one year, then came to Sprout Brook where he has since practiced. March 24. 
ISoo, he married Sarah A. Fuller of Ricliinondville, and they are the parents of four 
daughters: Florence, wife of Edward Ferguson of Gloversville ; Nettie, wife of Jervis 
Johnson of Richmondville ; Lottie, and Ella R. Mrs. Mallette died May 24, ISSS. 
Mr. Mallette takes an active interest in the Sprout Brook Methodist church, and was 
secretary and treasurer of the society for several j-ears. 

Shaw, Thomas J., Canajoharie, Sprout Brook p. o., was born at Pleasant Brook, Ot- 
sego county, October 16, 1S41, and is a son of Francis M. and Lydia A. (Bush) Shaw. 
The grandfather of our subject, Thomas Shaw, was born in Connecticut in ITGO and 
came to Otsego county, settling in Decatur about 1813. He was the father of eight 
children. Francis M. was the second son. He was born in Connecticut in ISll and 
married Lydia Bush, daughter of George Bush of Frey's Bush, who was a soldier in the 
war of 1812, and they were the parents of eleven children, eight are living: Julia, Hen- 
rietta, wife of Henry Farquaharson ; Catherine, wife of Levi Grey ; Margaret, wife of 
HoUett Abrams ; Fannj', wife of Ferdinand Hibbard : George, John, all of Cooperstown ; 
and Thomas, our subject. His boyhood days were spent in Otsego county, where he 
was educated in the Lancaster School at Cherry Valley. At the age of nineteen he 
started a blacksmith shop at Buel in this town. He conducted this until 1S69 when 
he moved to Cooperstown where he had a shop for three years, then farming it for 
tliree years, coming to Sprout Brook in 1875, where he has since conducted « success- 
ful business. January ti, 18V0, he married Mary J. Barringer, daughter of Moses and 
Mary J. (Grey) Barringer of Springfield. Mr. Shaw has never taken an active interest 
in politics, but devotes his whole time and attention to business. His ambition has been 
to be a successful business man and he is known the town over as an honest upright 
citizen, and good neighbor. 

Brummer, Mrs. Carrie L., Canajoharie, Buel p. o., was born in Canajoharie July 12. 
1853, and is a daughter of Augustus and Louisa (Whiteman Freebolt) and is also tin- 
widow of Philip Brummer. The early life of our subject was spent in this town, and 
after her marriage she moved to Worcester, Mass., where her husband conducted a 
jewelry store. She was married November 25, 1879, and their union has been blessed 
by four children: Lula, born October 26, 1880; George C, born January 2, 1883; P. 
Edward, born May 15, 1886 ; Rose Emily, born July 31, 1889, Philip Brummer died 
January 17, 1892, at fifty-three years of age. Augustus Freebolt was born in Germany 
about 1810 and came to this country in 1850. In 1851 Louisa Whiteman came to ihi,-- 



298 HISTORY OF MONT&OMERT COUNTY. 

conntrT and they were married soon after. They were the parents of four children, of 
which three are now living: Annie, wife of Ernest Findhng: Augustus, who conducts 
a market in Fort Plain and a farm in Cherry Valley : and Carrie L, our subject. Mr. 
Freebolt died June 1, 1S92. aged seventy-three. Louisa, a daughter of Mr, and Mrs. 
Freebolt, died June 20, 1862. Mrs. Brummer owns and conducts the farm of seveniy- 
two acres, cultivating hops and general produce. She is a member of the Lutheran 
church at Frey's Bush. 

Garlock, Adam H., Canajoharie, Buel p. o., was bom on the farm of his present res- 
idence in the town of Canajoharie February 28, 1823, and is a son of Henry and Laney 
(Bort) G-arlock. The grandfather of our subiect. Adam Garlock. was born in this 
county in 1754. The great-grandfather came from Germany, locating at Fort Plain. 
Adam Garlock bought this farm in its wild condition and cleared it for cultivation. 
They had a great deal of trouble with the Indians during the revolution, in which he 
was a soldier. He was married to Hannah Grey of Palatine; They were the parents 
of seven children : Henry, father of our subject, was the youngest. He was a soldier 
in the war of 1812. He married Laney Bort of Mapletown April 25, 1822, and they 
were the parents of two children : Reuben, born December 23, 1825 , and Adam H,, 
our subject. He has always lived on this old historic farm. At the death of his father, 
August 15. 1844, he and his brother Reuben inherited tlie farm which they have since 
successfully conducted in partnership. December 31. 1S51. he married Elizabeth Seeber, 
daughter of William H. and Xancy (Failing) Seeber, and their union has been blessed 
by two children : Ransford H.. born February 27, 1855. and Augusta, now widow of 
John H. Fisher, born June 5. 1858. Ransford makes his home on the old farm, the 
fifth generation to occupy it. On January 13, 1876. he married Henrietta Kougher of iLis 
town and they are the parents of two children : La Pearl, born January 2, 1877, and 
Stanley K.. born April 23, 1879. This is one of the best and largest farms of the town, 
containing 300 acres, 200 are under cultivation, hay and grain are the principal pro- 
ducts, 

Diefendorf, Philip J.. Canajoharie, Buel p. o., was bom on the farm of his present 
residence in Canajoharie March 15. 1835, and is a son of Daniel and Kancy CWieting) 
DiefendorL His great-grandfather came from Germany and settled in Herkimer county, 
where John Jacob (grandfather of our subject) w!»s bcrn in 1762; he was married to 
Christina Wilson and was the father of eight children ; Daniel (father of our subject) 
was the oldest and was born in 1793 in Danube. His first wife was Elizabeth Murphy 
and they were the parents of two children. After her death he married Nancy, daugh- 
ter of the Rev. John Christopher Wieting, who came to this country to avoid joining 
the army. Daniel and Nancy were the parents of four children, three are living : Oliver 
^L of Schoharie county; Rev. Chauncey. pastor of the Lutheran chureh in Berne, Al- 
bany county ; and Philip, our subject. He was educated in the Cherry Valley Academy 
and at the age of twenty began teaching school, which he followed for five years. He 
then went to farming on the old homestead. August 28, 1862, he married Maria 
Slingerland ard they are the parents of two children ; Annie G.. bom April 12. 186T, 
and Cora, now Mrs. Earl Mixer of Springfield. Otsego county, bom March 7, 1869. 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 299' 

Mrs. Dietendort died December 6, 1883. March 2A, 1886, he married Martha nrookmaii 
of Miiideii. Mr. Diefeiidorf has always taken an active interest in chnrch woik, and 
for eighteen years had held the office of deacon of the Frey's Bush Lutheran church. He 
is Republican in his politics but is not an office seeker. He conducts a tine farm of 100 
acres, and is considered a prosperous farmer and good neighbor. 

Reagles, Marcus. Canajoliarie, Frey's Bush p. o., was born in Canajoharie November 
25, 1829, and is a son of Wintherand Elizabeth (Wieting) Reagles. The grandfather 
of our subject (Cornelius Reagles) was one of those who fled from Schenectady to Albany 
in the night at the time of the massacre. He was the father of eight children and Win- 
ther was the youngest. He was born in Schenectady March 20, 1804. He was 
educated at Union College. His profession as teacher he followed for over thirty years, 
teaching among other places, at Ames, Marshville, Buel, Hinsdale, and when the old 
Garlock store stood on the corner of the Cherry Valley turnpike and the road to Fort 
Plain, he was filling the position of clerk. March 3, 1827, he married Elizabeth Wiet- 
ing, daughter of Rev. John Christopher Wieting, who once acted as Burgoyne's secretary, 
and they were the parents of three children : Maria, now Mrs. Peter Milmine of Wis- 
consin ; Margaret Ann, and Marcus, our subject. His early life was spent at home, 
and when he was fourteen years old his father bought a small farm of fifty acres, and 
in 1850 bouglit the farm known as the Gilbert Van Alstine place of IGO acres, where 
they lived fifteen years, then he bought the farm where Marcus now lives, and at his 
death, January 10, 1892, he left it to him. He owns also a farm of 160 acres in Minden 
and the old homestead farm of 100 acres, and forty acres in this place, making in all 
about 300 acres Hr. Reagles is an active church worker, and has filled the office of 
deacon in the Evangelical Lutheran church for over twelve years. 

Kibbie, Annie Mrs., Amsterdam, was born in Fulton county. Her first husband was 
George F. Cox, a native of Charlton. In his early life he was a teacher and at 
one time a principal of St. Johnsville Academy. He was afterwards a physician and 
died in 1876. Her second husband was born in Fulton county in 1824, and was well 
educated and a successful merchant and speculator. They were married on the lllh of 
September, 1877. Her father (James Canary) was born in Perth, in the year 1813 
and married Harriet Dixon of Mayfield. They had three sons and three daughters: 
Annie, James, John C, Maurice, Fannie E., and Emma PL The grandfather, James 
Canary, was a colonel in the revolutionary war. 

Fonda, Douw, came from Schenectady to Fonda (which place was named for him) in 
1767. He had three sons; Adam, Jellis and John, and was killed by the Indians; 
during Sir John Johnson's raid in 1780, two of his sons, Adam and John, were taken 
prisoners, carried to Canada, and held there two years. Adam, on his return, settled 
on a farm near Fonda ; Jellis bought a tract of land eight miles west ; and John settled 
in the eastern part of Fonda. Douw A. Fonda, son of Adam, married Lavina Breese 
and had three children: Adam D., Garrett Tunis, and Gertrude. He was a Democrat 
and in 1832 was elected to the a.ssembly. The family belonged to the Reformed church. 
He died in 1855 and she in 1857. Adam D., son of Douw A., was born in 1802, and 
married in 1822, Lydia,daughter of Thomas Sammons, and had nine children. He was a 
Democrat and served as loan commissioner; he was active in politics, and was induen- 



300 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

tial in the removal of the court house from Johnstown to Fonda. Douw A., son of 
Adam D. and Lydia (Sammons) Fonda, was born October 14. 1824. He worked on a, 
farm until he was twenty-one, when he began clerking in Fultonville for H. P. Voor- 
hees, where he remained three years, after which he opened a general store in Fonda 
and dealt largely in produce, until 1887. He has served as county treasurer three years 
and supervisor three years; also trustee of the village several terms. December 6, 
1848, he married Gertrude A. Cole of Broome county, who bore him seven children : 
Thomas, a New York hay dealer in company with his father; Nathan Cole, who has 
been cashier for John H. Starin since 1876 ; Herbert N., a grocer in New York ; Bertha, 
wife of Dr. Elliott Gorton, physician to the State Lunatic Asylum in New Jersey; 
Sophia, who lives at home ; and two are deceased. Douw A. is a member of Fulton- 
ville Lodge No. 531, F. & A. M. 

Williams, Charles W., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Fulton, Schoharie county, 
June 27, 1843, and was educated in the public sshools. In early life he was a farmer, 
but afterwards learned the tinsmith's trade, and in 1854 he came to Amsterdam with 
his parents. In 1864 he enlisted in Company A, 91st N. Y. S. Volunteers, and was in 
the battles of Gravelly Run, Quaker Plank Road, Five Forks and the surrender of 
General Lee at Appomatos ; he was in the second brigade, third division, fifth army 
corps, and was honorably discharged at the clofe of the war. Mr. Williams's mother's 
grandfather (Edwin Taylor) was in the revolution. Mr. Williams married in 1866 
Kate, a daughter of H. S. Stewart of this city, by whom he had one daughter, Lena, 
who died at the age of five. Mrs. Williams died May 9. 1876. He married on July 27, 
1887, Mary Martin of Amsterdam, and they have one daughter, Barbara M. Mr. 
Williams's father (David) was born in the state of Massachusetts, and at an early day 
came to Schoharie county ; he married Mary A. Hagadorn of that county ; they had 
seven children, as follows: Catharine, Leeman, Charles W., David, Stephen, Jennie, 
and Edward. Stephen, Charles W., and David were in the late war. Mr. Williams 
has been in the hardware business in this city since March, 1872. He is a member of 
Post Young No. 36, G. A. R., also a n.ember of the Knights of Pythias, Chuctenunda 
Lodge No. 100, a membei of A. 0. U. W., Mohawk Valley Lodge No. 209. and the 
Order of Red Men, Kennyetto Tribe No. 100. 

Larrabee, Louis, Amsterdam, Cranesville p. o., was born in the town of Amsterdam 
January 20, 1820, and was a son of Seth and Nancy (Groat) Larrabee. Seth was a 
son of Richard and Patty (Webster) Larrabee. Richard came to this country during 
the French war and located in Rhode Island, thence went to New Hampshire where 
he married a sister of Daniel Webster's father. At the time of the Boston tea party 
he and two of his sons helped to throw that cargo overboard. He was an officer in 
the revolutionary war and lost one of his sons. Ebenezer was killed at Bunker Hill; 
Richard was taken prisoner with Ethan Allen and taken to England, where they were 
Jcept until the war closed. He died January 28, 1828, ninety-six years of age. Seth 
was also a soldier, having served in the war of 1812. He was born February 26, 1776, 
^ied January 4, 1850, leaving seven children, only two are now living: Caleb C. of 
Jackson, Mich. ; and Louis, our subject. The latter has always made this town his 
home. Educated in the common school with a short course in Union College. When 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 301 

he was twelve years old he went with Commodore Leger, visiting the Caribbean sea 
for the purpose of expelling the pirates. He has served as tallyman at Albany and 
New York wharves. He married Catharine Swart of Florida January 30, 1850, who 
■died in 1875, leaving one child, Charles Edwin of Schenectady. March 27, 1876, he 
married Mary C. Bradt, daughter of John and Catherine (De Graff) Bradt, early set- 
tlers of this town. Mr. Larrabee is one of the leadnig farmers of this section and has a 
very pleasant and comfortable home. He is popular among the townsmen, and has 
held offices of trust and honor in tlie town. 

Wiles Family, The. — Jacob Wiles, the son of John and the grandson of Joseph 
Henry Wiles, was born in Minden March 18, 1807. His father died November 12, 
1831, in his fifty-seventh year. His grandfather died November 29, 1831, aged eighty. 
Jacob married Anna, daughter of Nicholas Casler, who died April 4, 1884, aged seventy- 
eight. They had three children : Ephraim, Rufus, who died in Minden June 4, 1874, 
in his twenty-fourth year; and Aaron, who resides in Minden. Jacob died March 5, 
1891, in his eighty-fourth year. Ephraim, the oldest of the family, was born in Minden 
July 1, 1827, and for his first wife married Catherine Pickard ; they had one son, 
Jacob J., and Mr. Wiles married second, Elizabeth Walrath. Ephraim died November 
11, 1875, in his forty-ninth year. Jacob J. (mentioned above) was born in Minden 
October 21, 1848, and for his first wife married Irena Dillenback, and had one child, 
Anna; Irena died May 30, 1876, in her twenty fourth year. For his second wife he 
married Lucina, daughter of Peter Fake. 

Hyland, Dr. Thomas G., was born in Madison county on the 8th of June, 1857, and 
was educated in the public schools and Madison University (now Colgate University), 
and graduated from Bellevue Hospital Medical College in 1879. In 1880 he located in 
Amsterdam and has been eminently successful in the practice of his profession to the 
present time. November 27, 1883, he married Annie McAvinue of Albany. They 
have two children : Lillian M. and Eegnia A. His father, Patrick, was born in Ireland, 
and in 1847 came to the United States with his wife, Mary Congdon, by whom he had 
nine children among them Rev. J. F. Hyland, Ilion, N. Y. ; Dr. E. M. Hyland, Utica, 
N. Y. ; and H. P. Hyland, attorney, Brooklyn. Dr. Hyland is a member of the Mont- 
gomery County Medical Society and Albany County Medical Society. In 1884 he was 
appointed by Governor Cleveland coroner for Montgomery county and in 1885 was 
elected to the same office for three years. He has been city physician in Amsterdam, 
and health officer for the past two years. He belongs to the National Guard of the 
State and ranks as 1st lieutenant and assistant surgeon to the 3d brigade. For the past 
two years he has acted as a civil service commissioner for Amsterdam City. 

Veeder, Major-General Abram, of the militia, was the son of Johannis Veeder, and was 
born in Mohawk in 1743. He died January 25, 1814. His remains lie on the Veeder 
farm with these lines on his monument; 

" His standard justice, truth his leading star. 
Honor and humanity his care : 
Thus passed our hero to his earthly doom. 
His soul to God, his body to the tomb. 
Reader, attend ! copy if you can 
God's noblest work, an honest man." 



302 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

During one of the Tory and Indian raids through the valley his buildings were burned. 
He married Sarah Vedder by whom he had one child, Albert, and she dying soon after, 
he married Nancy Fonda, by whom he had two sons and five daughters. Albert, above 
mentioned, was born m 1769 on the old farm, and married Nancy Backer, by whom he 
had twelve children, nine of whom grew to maturity. His second wife was Rebecca 
Van Vechten. He was a farmer and was the first constable in town. He was after- 
wards an assessor, an important office during the war of 1812, and for twenty years a 
magistrate of the town. The only surviving children of Albert Teeder are Margaret 
and Catharine, who live on the homestead farm at a ripe age. Johannis Veeder was a 
very prominent and useful man and his four sons were also distinguished. In addition to 
Abram there was Volkert, wlio for sis terms represented Montgomery county in the 
Legislature, while Simon was county judge for seven years, and John had a seat in the 
Senate for an equal period. The descendants of the family are numerous and hold po- 
sitions of usefulness in society. 

Olmstead, Jeremiah, Root, was born in the town of Glen, August 29, 1849. He was 
educated in the public schools of Glen, and January 25, 1877, married Amelia, only 
daughter of David and Sophia A. Veeder of this town, formerly of the town of Charles- 
ton. They have two sons and two daughters : Freddie D., May S., Edward V.. and 
Marjorie A. Mr. Olmstead's father, Albert, was born in Saratoga, but since he was a 
young man has resided in Glen. He married Hannah C. Van Schaick, and they had 
four sons and four daughters: John E., Albert H., Jane E., Martha A., Mary. Catharine, 
Jeremiah and William V. S. The ancestry of this family is Dutch, German and 
American. 

Hand, Edward J., Amsterdam, was born in the town of Glen, Montgomery county, 
on the 25th of October, 1866, and was educated in the public schools and Amsterdam 
Academy. In company with Tunis Peek he manufactured brooms under the firm name 
of Tunis Peck & Co., till August 15, 1892. Mr. Hand's father, John, was born at the 
old home, and married Jane E. Bennett of his native town. He was a farmer by occu- 
pation and had one son, Edward J. John Hand died on the first of January, 1892, 
Mr. Hand's occupation at present is the settling up of his father's estate. He was 
elected, November 8, 1892, member of assembly from Montgomery county. 

Hofiinan, Julius, Root, was born in the province of Silesia. Prussia, October 25, 
1838. He was educated in the public schools there, and afterwards learned the piano- 
maker's and organbuilder's trade, which he followed in the fatherland, and also in the 
various locations where has lived, London and America. He went to London in 1862. 
reoaaining there four years. In 1866 he embarked for the United States, and located 
in Brooklyn, N. Y., where he remained four years. Mr. Hoffman is an expert apiarist. 
He removed to Rockland county, where he remained only one year, as the location 
was not suited to this business. He next removed to Fort Plain, and then soon after- 
wards located permanentlj :u the town of Root, where he manufactures the'.finest arti- 
cle in organs and is teaching his sons the same art. He is an apiarist also, and has the 
latest improvements for bee culture, with an invention of his own, called the Hofiinan 
frame, which is now in general use in this country. He has also imported the Cyprian 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 303 

and Caucasian bees, and as the result of tliis combination with his native bees, he 
thinks he has a very fine breed. June 25, ISfiS, he married Mary Goeringer of liis 
native place, and they have had seven children, three sons and four daughters. One 
son, August, was drowned at the age of seven years. The others are Hattie Ernestine, 
Elizabeth Marie, Paul Julius, Helen Emma, Julius Ernest, and Erna Marguerita. Mr. 
Hoffman's residence and surroundings are among the finest in the neighborhood, and 
should be an example for imitation. 

Meyer, John, Root, a son of John and Mary (Kink) Meyer, was born February 11, 
1837, in Bisel, Conton Hersingen, Alsace, France (now Germany). March 2, 1854, 
he came to the United States, w-hen he was seventeen years old, and located in the 
town of Palatine, Here he attended school one term in wmter and then worked on 
a farm by the year for six years. In the year 1860 Mr. Meyer and his brother Henry 
hired four hundred acres of land of Christian I. Lathers for the term of five years in the 
town of Root. Here his brother Henry was accidentally killed by falling on a pitch- 
fork, and left a wife and five children, Christina, Mary, Elizabeth, Dora, Louise. 
December 20, 1859, he married Anna C. Minch, who was born in Germany. They had 
six children, five sons and one daughter: George H., John J., Catherine E. (deceased), 
Charles, William and Edward. Mrs. Meyer died February 15, 1874, mourned by a be- 
reaved family. November 7, 1877, he married for his second wife Cornelia, daughter 
of Andrew Duesler, by whom he had one son, Henry (deceased). Mr. Meyer's father 
married Mary Kink of his native place ; they had two sons and three daughters, Henry, 
John, Mary, Anna and Josephine ; he served in the war with Napoleon I. Mr. Meyer 
has been very successful in this country, residing on his own farm of one hundred 
acres. His son William resides on another one hundred acres owned by him (John 
Meyer) and another lot of twenty-five acres, all told 225 acres. Mr. Meyer has always 
identified himself with the Republican party. 

Smeallie, P. Henry, Amsterdam, was born in West Galway, Saratoga county, June 
7, 1862. Both his parents died when he was very young, and he came to reside with 
his uncle, Dr. Scoon in Amsterdam, w here he was educated in the schools and academy. 
He then entered the office of Stewart & Carmichael's paper mills as bookkeeper, and 
was afterwards teller in the Farmer's National Bank two years. He is now conduct- 
ing a paper mill under the firm name of Smeallie, Phillips & Co. December 2, 1885, 
he married Kittie L,, oldest daughter of John F. and Elvira Morris of this city. They 
have two children, a son and daughter, John M. and Marion E. Mr. Smeallie's father, 
Andrew J., was born at Blue Corners, March 13, 1821, and married Margaret Knox of 
West Galway, who was born June 11, 1823. Their children were: John K., William 
B., James A. and P. Henry His father died May 3, 1869, and his mother June 3. 1868. 
Mr. Smeallie's grandparents, both on his father's and mother's side, came from Scot- 
land. 

Gilliland, Francis, Amsterdam, was born at Yankee Hill, Florida in February, 1820; 
his education was limited on account of the death of his father when he was four years 
old ; at the age of nine he drove on the canal ; at eleven he started to learn book- 
binding which he followed two years ; afterwards he learned the piano maker's trade 



304 HISTORY OF irONTGOMERT COUXTY. 

which he followed for some time. When a young man he returned to the village of 
Amsterdam, opening a cabinet shop on the northwest side of the river bridge ; he then 
bought two boats on the old canal and followed boating for several years; after this 
he followed various occupations until 1868, when he opened a general woodworker's 
establishment in Mudge Hollow, just above Serviss & De Grafi"s saw and flour mills. In 
1842 he married Ellen Margaret (Staring) Gilliland who was born in Newport, Herkimer 
county ; they had seven children, six sons and one daughter, William, Henry H., John 
W., Charles E., Mason T., Francis E., Harry J. and Ella B. They are all dead except 
Francis E. and Mason T., who are conducting the business under the firm name of 
Francis Gilliland's Sons. Francis E. was admitted a partner with his father at the age 
of nineteen years. Mason T. worked in the shoe business for nine years. Mason T. 
was born December 29, 1852, and was educated in the village schools. September 9, 
1874, he married Margaret Sammons, a grandniece of Colonel Sammons; they have 
two children, Francis E. and Roy E. Francis E. was born October 26, 1854, and was 
educated in the village schools. January 6, 1878, he married Hannah A. Stannard of 
Newport, Herkimer county ; they have three daughters, Sarah, Laura M. and Florence 
M. Sarah died at the age of sis months. Mr. Gilliland has held all the important 
offices of the village of Amsterdam ; he was president of the village two terms ; trustee 
on three different occasions and school trustee one term ; he was an ardent Republican 
and an Odd Fellow: he is said to be the father of the I. O. 0. F. in Amsterdam. Fran- 
cis E. is a member of the 1. O. O. F. and of the Mechanic's Association ; he has held 
the offices through in both lodges, and was trustee of the village of Port Jackson four 
years. Mason T. is a member of the Woodbine Lodge 250, Knights of Pythias and 
holds the office of master of finance. 

Stowitt, Phillip H., Root, was born at the old homestead, near Rural Grove, Janu- 
ary 28, 1857, was educated in the public schools of the town and is a farmer. He has 
twice married, first, on May 28, 1876, to Ameha C. Pulver, by whom he had two sons 
and a daughter : Edwin J., Pearl E., and Fred Howard. Mrs. Stowitt died October 
10, 1885, and he married second, April 14, 1887, Lillie M. Van Alstine of Canajoharie. 
Mr. Stowitt's father, Jacob M., was born at Currytown, June 15, 1817. He was edu- 
cated in the public schools of that day, and was by occupation a farmer. In the year 
1855 he married Mary Shelp, by whom he had four sons: Philip H., Irving J., who 
married Blanche J. Howell and now resides in Nebraska ; Howard M., who married 
Allie D. Van Alstine of Canajoharie; the wife of the latter son is dead, and he is at 
the present writing in a dental college in New York city ; and Arthur D., who is a 
physician, and married a Miss Blanchard, of Sidney, Nebraska, where they reside. 
Philip H. Stowitt's grandfather Philip was born on the old homestead and married 
Gertrude M. Moschell of his native town, by whom he bad six children : Jacob M., 
Henry P., George P., Margaret, Mary E., and Nancy C. The great-grandfather of 
the subject, George P. was killed in the battle of Oriskany, and his son Michael was 
captured by a squad of English soldiers at the age of fourteen when returning from a 
funeral at Sprakers, and he was taken to Canada and kept for a year. 

Crosby, Oliver, Root, son of Obadiah and Catherine (Baird) Crosby, was born where 
he now lives, May 11. 1846. He was educated in the district schools and the Seminary 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 305- 

and owns the old homestead. He is a Democrat. August 25, 18S0, he married Mary 
E., daughter of Michael and Jane (Ottman) Seeley, and they have five children : Alice, 
Theodore. Henry L., Schuyler and Foster. He and his wife are members of the Pres- 
byterian church. The grandfather, Theodore, son of Obadiah (who was a leather dresser 
and a pioneer of Root) was born in Root, and married a Mrs. Rulianna Foster, and they 
had five children: Seth, Elizabeth, Mary, Oliver and Obadiah. Theodore died Septem- 
ber, 1849, and his wife died in February, 1850. Their son, Obadiah, father of Oliver, 
was born in Schoharie county, and at the age of seven moved with his parents to 
Root. In 1881 he moved to Carlisle, and died in 1886. His wife survives him. They 
had five children : Oliver, Isaac, Julia, who died in 1881, Lydia and Ann, who died in 
1879. 

Crane, T. H. Benton, Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam January 10, 
1842, was educated in the public schools, and was in the employ of the N. Y. C. & H. 
R. R. R. for eight years. For a time he was clerk in a grocery store. In the year 1873 he 
entered the employ of the First National Bank of this city, first as teller, and for the 
past two years has been its cashier. Mr. Crane is a member of Artisan Lodge No. 84. 
F. & A. M. In August, 1861, he married Mary E., second daughter of Lansing and 
Abigail Ostrom of this city, by whom he had three children : David Cady, Ruth E., and 
James Benton. Mr. Crane's father, Abraham, was born in Orange. N. J., and came to 
this state with his parents at the age of ten years. They located east of Amsterdam at 
a place known now as Crane's Village. He married Mrs. Rachel H. Welling of Trenton, 
N. J., and they had two children, a son and a daughter: T. H. Benton, as noted above, 
and Cornelia C, who married William Bolster of Albany, N. Y. Mr. Crane's grand- 
father, John, was a soldier m the revolution, and his mother's brother, James Potter, 
was in the war of 1812 and the Mexican war. 

Dillenbeck, Lysander, St. Johnsville was born in Palatine October 21, 1819, a son 
of Martinus I. and Elizabeth (Bverson) Dillenbeck. His father was an emigrant from' 
Holland, who settled in Palatine. The subject's father was born in Palatine 17c^6. He 
was a captain in the war of 1812. The family still have the sword he carried. He was 
a farmer, a liberal man, always ready to assist his neighbors, and a leader in the Luth- 
eran church. His wife was a daughter of Adam and Dorothy (Doxtater) Everson, and 
bore him three children : Magdaline Miller, Catharine Wagner, and Lysander. She 
was a member of the Reformed church. He was a Whig and a Republican, and served 
as supervisor. His death occurred June 9, 1859. Lysander Dillenbeck was raised on 
a farm, and at the age of twenty-four bought his father's homestead of ninety-two acres. 
Later he added forty-seven acres, and engaged in breeding Holstein cattle. In 1880 he 
located in St. Johnsville, and had retired from active business. He is a liberal sup- 
porter of home industries and the church. He was a Republican and had held town 
offices. He married first, Elizabeth, daughter of John G. and Margaret (Kdts) Shults 
of Palatine, who bore him the following children : Mary C, deceased wife of Martin 
Shults, who left two children, Ezra and Meltha ; Ezra, deceased, who left his wife 
Percelia and two children, Ezra D. and Lizzie C. His wife died January 1, 1870 (a 
member of the Lutheran church), and he married .second, Julia, daughter of Peter I. 



306 HISTORY OF ilOSTGOMERT COUSTT. 

and Cuharine (Saltsmanl Saltsman. Thev are both m^nbers c^ the Lathenn chardi. 
Mr. Dillenbeck died October 7. 1S92. 

Fox, Georg« H„ Camaijoharie, irms bora on the old homstead futn at S{Ht>at Brook 
January 10, 1$55, a son <^ Olirer 6. and Sarah (Colonan) Fox. He was educated in 
the common schools and Fort Plain Academj and assisted his father on the farm uutil 
his mamase ^with the exception of one year at Sharon depot), February IS, ISSa, he 
married Kittie, daughter of Aaron and Catharine (Lintoer) Finehout. and they bare 
three children: Anna L. bom XoTember 30. 1SS5: C<h* B., bora Febraary 21, 1S90; 
and Daniel E.. bora June o. IS?2. In June, 1S9">, Mr. Fox bought his present resi- 
dence known as the Peter G. Dygart farm. This is as good a farm as there is in this 
section, the principal crops being hops, hay and grain. Mr. Fox is an ardent suf^iorter 
of the Republican ticket, but is not an ofSoe seekn-. 

Collins. Ira. Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam July 4. 1S20. a son of 
Joseph and Hannah (Ilkmac) Collins. His early life was spent on the old homestead 
farm and he attended school in that district. February 23. lSo9. he married Hannali 
Knapp of GloversTJUe, daughter of Solomon Knapp. In lSo2 be left home to engage 
on Colonel Davie's farm for two years, then going to his brolher's in this town, and 
from there to the farm of J. J. Serviss. In 1S70 he bought the farm of 110 acres of 
MrsL Chapman at Hagaman's Mills. He has two children : William I., bora February 
23. ISOl. and Anna E. Manner, born Sovember 20. 1S64. Mr. Collins has been a rery 
successful farmer, owing to his persererance, ambition and integrity. Bat^ as far as he 
can ascertain, his ancestors have been Americans, 

Tosburg. Jsy, Root, was bom near Flat Creek, upon the farm where he now resides, 
December 25. 1^7. He was educated in the public schools of his town, is a farmer by 
occupation, and married, October 11. 1SS2, Lydia, third daughtex of Gifford A. and 
Harriet Hill of Ames. They have two children. Flora Field and J. Voorhees. Mr. 
Tosburg's father. Jacob, was born east of the present homestead. October 2. 1S03. He 
was a pioneer farmer, and was twice married, first to Hannali Mount, by whom he had 
fire children : Fannie M., Abby J.. Lydia. Elijah M.. and Washington. The latter en- 
listed in the late war in the year 1S62, and was honorably discharged at the close of the 
war. Jacob Vosburg married for his second wife, January 27. ISiS, Almira Gardenier 
of Argusville. Schoharie county, and they had two sons and three daughters ; Howard, 
who married Lydia Devendorf of this town, and resides in Canajoharie ; Hattie E.. 
who married Stanton Taylor : Essie, who married Arthur Hill of Ames : Xellie M.. 
and Jay. Jacob Vosburg's uude, Jacob Devendorf, was scalped by the Indians, tliongh 
he lived for many years afterwards. Jacob M. Gardenier, father of Mrs. Almira Vos- 
burg. was a soldier in the war of 1S12. 

Brannock. H. W.. photographer, of Amsterdam, was born in Williamstown. Ky., 
February 2, 1S66. He received his education in that state, Gnisliing in the St. Charles 
College of Missouri, of which his father. Prof. J. P. Brannock. was president. Leaving 
the college in ISSo he went to Kansas City and took up photographing, remaining there 
one year, when he settled in Amsterdam in the same business. Here he purchased an 
established studio and has advanced to the front rank amons the artists of Central Sew 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 307 

York. Many of the portraits from which the steel enpravings in this volxime were 
made, were made br him. and he also has negatives of manr other leading citizens of 
the county. Mr. Brannook's father married Lydia E. White, and they had six children. 
Mr. Brannock's place of business is at 6S East M.iin street. 

Larrahee, John E.. Amsterdam, was born in the town of Amsterdam, November 24, 
1P51. He had the advantajre of a common school education, and became a clerk for E. 
T. Leavenworth in the haniware business. He has l>een clerk and partner, conducting 
the business for sixteen years on his own account. In 1ST<< he w.is in partnersliip with 
L. L. Dean, continuing for six years under the tirni name of U L, Dean & Co. After- 
ward he formed a partnership with \V. G. Barnes which lasted eight years, under the 
firm name of Larrabee it Barnes, ,'»nd hsis been conducting a harvlware business on his 
own account two years, on Market street, February 6, 1SS9, he married Louise 
Leavenworth of this city and they have one daughter, Katharine Louise, Mr. Larra- 
bee's father, Roswell, was born in this town Decembtr 26, 1S25, and married Sarah 
Van Vleck of Fulton county. They had two sons and a daughter : John lE., as noted 
above; Irving, unmarrieil, who clerks for his brotlier; and Anna B.. whomairied John 
King of Schenectady. Mr. Larrabee is a member of the K. of P. Woodbine Lodge No. 
250. The family are of French and Dutch extraction. 

Enders Family. The. — It is believeil that Bertram Euders oanie from the lower Pala- 
tinate (along the river Rhine') with the second German immigration to America, which 
arrived in New York in June and July. 1710. They came to Nutten (now Governor's 
IslandV thence to Livingston Manor on llie Hudson, the latter part of the same year. 
They removed to the Schoharie valley in the fall of 1712, or in the spring of 1713. 
Bertram Enders purchased lands of Hendrick Houck in 1729 and 1730. The home- 
stead was what is now known as the Kilmer farm. It is a few miles below Central 
Bridge, and is now owned by Henry Bagley., Bertram Enders had three sons, Jacob, 
Peter, and John. John, the youngest, remained on the old homestead where he died 
March 12. 1825, aged seventy years. Peter settled near Schoharie Junction. He was 
a revolutionary soldier. His buildings were burned in 17S0. when Sir John Johnson 
and Brant devastated the Schohaiie valley. He had five d.iughters : Catharine, wife 
of Joseph Borst; Christiana, wife of Harmon Becker; Maria, wife of Jacob Enders of 
Fort Hunter; Elizabeth, wife of John Enders of Fort Hunter: and Nancy, wife of 
Philip Dietz ; and two sons, Jacob P.. who retained the homestead, and Peter I., who 
settled at Central Bridge, Jacob Enders, Bertram'* eldest son, born 17-10. died 1S07. 
came to Fort Hunter about 175S. He settled on tlie estate now owned by the heirs of 
John Leslie Toorhees, Jacob Enders had three daughters ; Elirabelh, Christiana and 
Eva; and four sons: Jacob, John, Peter and Christian. John Enders^ born in 17S3, 
died in 1S61. Elirabeth, his wife, born 17S4, died in 1S35. John kept the homestead 
which has been in possession of tlie Enders- Voorhees family, about lo4 vears. John 
Enders had two children, Catharine Ann. born in ISIO, died in 1S77. wife of the late 
John Leslie Toorhees ; and Peter, who died in ;March, 1S77. in his sixty-fifth year. 
Jacob Enders, brother of the above, was born in 1768 and died in 1S27. Maria, his 
wife, born 1774, died 1S56, They had two daughters, Catharine Ann, wife of the late 
Isaac Houck, and Elizabeth, wife of Uie late John C. Yost, and two sons, Jacob E., who 



308 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

died ia childhood, and Peier I. The latter was born at Fort Hunter, N. Y., 1799, where 
he died in 1866 at his home, which has been in the family over a hundred years. His 
wife, Catharine Ann, daughter of John Van Derveer, died in 1890. They had two 
children, Jacob Henry and Catharine Elizabeth, wife of John H. Voorhees, esq. Rev. 
Jacob Henry Enders was born at Fort Hunter, November 19, 1834, was graduated from 
Union College in 1858 ; from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1861. He was chap- 
lain of the 153d regiment N. Y. S. Volunteers from October, 1862 till October 18, 
1865. Was in the Red River, La., and Shenandoah Valley, Va., campaigns. In 1866 
he became pastor of the Reformed Church at Lysander, where he remained until 1869. 
In 1867 he was married to Elizabeth Leslie, daughter of William Voorhees, who died in 
1881. He was pastor of the Reformed Church, Chittenango, from 1869 to 1880. He 
married in 1887 Elizabeth Bridgman, daughther of John S. Goold of Albany. He was 
associate pastor of the Albany City Mission from 1881 to 1889; and since 1889 has 
been missionary superintendent of the Particular Synod of Albany. 

Garlock, Michael, Sprout Brook p. o., was born in the town of Stark, Herkimer 
county. May 22, 1825, a son of Charles E. and Christiana (Brookman) Garlock. The 
great-grandfather was born in Holland and when he came to this country he settled in 
New York. He was the father of several children ; one was Elias, the grandfather of 
our subject. He was a soldier in the war of 1812 and was wounded at Oriskany, from 
the effects of which he died. He was the father of five children. Charles E., the 
second son was the father of our subject. He was born in 1787, married when twenty- 
four years of age to Christiana Brookman, and tbey were the parents of seven children, 
four are now living: Peter and Nancy, twins ; Peter, a farmer of Oswego, and Nancy, 
widow of Isaac Snyder of Danube : Eve Eliza, widow of John Walrod of Danube ; and 
Michael, our subject. His early life was spent in Danube and as his father died when 
Michael was two years old, he very early started to shift for himself. In 1847 he came 
to this town and married. September 13, 1848, Harriet Spraker, daughter of George 
and Nancy (Wieting) Spraker, and their union was blessed by three children, two are 
living: Charles Edgar, born January 27, 1852, and Eliza Ann, wife of Fayette Wieting 
of Gloversville, born February 25, 1854. Nancy Helen, wife of Reuben Yordon, died 
September 7, 1891, aged forty-one. In 1870 Mr. Garlock bought the farm of ninety- 
,«even acres where he now lives and cultivates hops, hay and grain. Mrs. Garlock died 
June 16, 1884. Charles E., was married October 28, 1873, to Jennie Allen and they 
are the parents of one child, Florence, born February 28, 1886. Mr. Garlock is a mem- 
ber of the Frey's Bush Lutheran Church, and C. Edgar, a member of the M. E. Church 
at Sprout Brook. They are not politicians and it is said of them that they are good 
neighbors and citizens. Mr. Garlock's home is on the highest point in the town of 
Canajoharie. 

Wessell, Mary E., Root, was the second daughter of Peter Ottman of Schoharie 
county. Her late husband, James M. Wessell, was born at Flat Creek, in the town of 
Root, April 18, 1834. He was educated in the public school and Carlisle Academy, 
was a farmer and afterwards a hotel keeper, and was generally known to be an exem- 
plary landlord. February 27, 1861, he married Mary E. Ottman of Sharon, Schoharie 
<;ounty. Mr. Wessell died February 23, 1889. Mrs. Wessell will retire from hotel- 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 309 

keeping March 1, ]89li, having at the present writing sold her hotel propertj'. To her 
credit it may be said that she conducted the hotel in the same manner that her husband 
did. Mrs. Wessel's father, Peter Ottraan, was born m Schoharie county February 6, 
18H. He married Nancy Pans, who was born May .'i, 1816. They had two sons and 
two daughters: Ceha M., Hiram, Mary E., and Charles. Mrs. Ottman died October 1, 
1856. Mr. Ottman still survives. Mrs. Wessel's grandfather. Christian Paris, was a 
soldier in the war of the revolution. 

Somers, Melancthon, Root, was born in Sharon, Schoharie county April 10, 1856. 
His parents moved to the town of Seward when he was three years old, where he 
was educated in the public schools. At the age of sixteen he began to teach school 
which he did successfully for two years. After this he went to Michigan where he 
taught school one year. He then returned east and attended the Normal School at Al- 
ban}'. He then resumed teaching in the town of Seward, where he taught the largest 
school there, with marked success for three years. In 1878 he began the study of 
medicine with Dr. H. A. Myers of Garnersville. In the winter of 1880-81 he attended 
the Eclectic Medical College of the city of New York, and afterwards studied with Dr. 
Jacob Van Valkenburg of Sharon for one year. Afterwards he attended the U. S. 
Medical College of New York city, from which institution he graduated on March 8, 
1882, and located at Flat Creek" June 5, 1882, where he has since been successful in his 
chosen profession. December 23, 1886, he married IdaB., fourth daughter of Dr. James 
E. Sutphen of Seward Valley. They have one son, M. Sutphen, born January 21, 1889. 
Barna Somers, father of our subject, was born in Sharon, April 4, 1828; was a farmer 
and school teacher, and married Alniira Zeh of the town of Seward. Of their eleven 
children, four died in infancy, and the others were: Charles H., Melancthon, Libbie, 
Seymour, Hattie A., Willis B., and LilUe M. His father died October 18, 1878, and 
his mother October 18, 1890. Dr. Somers is a Democrat in politics. 

Snell, Enoch, St. Johnsville, one of the leading citizens of St. Johnsville, was born 
at Snell's Bush November 20, 1812, a son of Sefrenes and Eve (Frey) Snell, and grand- 
son of Peter Snell, who parents came from Germany. Our subject's great-grandfather 
and three brothers received a patent from Queen Anne of 1700 acres, on which they 
located. His grandfather Snell was born in Palatine, and died at Snell's Bush aged 
seventy-four years. He was one of nine Snells who participated in the battle of Oris- 
kany, but two of whom came out alive, Peter being one of them. His wife was Anna 
Kilts, and they had eight sons and three daughters, 109 grandchildren and 294 great- 
grandchildren. Mrs. Snell was born February 9, 1750, and died December 4, 1842. 
Our subject's father was born at Snell's Bush in 1790, and died in 1872, aged eighty- 
eight years. He served at Sackett's Harbor in the war of 1812, was supervisor and 
held several other town offices, and was a Whig and a Republican. His wife died in 
1867. aged eighty. Their family comprised six sons and six daughters. They were 
members of the Reformed church. Enoch Snell was raised on the farm and educated 
at the common school. He taught one winter term in his home district. At the age 
of twenty-eight he bought a farm of 200 acres where he now resides, and on which be 
has built a fine residence. He has been justice of the peace and is a Republican. He 
married, October 19, 1837, Julia H., daughter of Jacob H. and Gertrude (Dockey) 



310 BISTORT OF M05T<SOMEET COL Mi'. 

TaSmg. Ther Isxre tsshi cxaidreii. sdx c£ -mhcaa readied mmUu'ii.} : Mttod. Jaecib S. 
Geravde (deeeasedju Exe D_ HeJen < deoeisedx ssd I>e3i&. nteT beDoDg lo }3ie Ontc^ 

Sc^BBidt. Bdward L_ AjnBieraam. ■•-» bofrc in Sewart X. T.. Oeiobes- 10. 1^6. and 
"vae bmagiit l» AiiievS'4a2& viiii ins parane vbes s Tear oiid. trbere be '•ras edocaXed 
ai lltejigiiiSescbooSE. He thea learned the mopder's trade, •widcffi be &>]jo'yea for Ttreagy 
Tears. He bas beeo jnsnor ^leniber of tbe PerkiDS Fcmsdrr C«. for tbe pKt ome 
Te&r£. JsDnazj 24. ISBQ. be nsarried Jjotsssak, oldesi nirarbier of Jobn B. and Jme 
A. Sxrer'---- -- -- T - ,, ; -.;^ v.^ jj^g daa^iiBer, I><]7a A— ■wbo £ed i^ed seres 

jesTS. .^ wie bars in BBTana,&£miainr,md came ied^ 

eoaniTT .- ZjEabedi Sweaie fenDerir of Alsace, Ftaiioe (sow 

G«nnaiiT>. acd laei- ennaren ■w-ere as follows: Gusisttis ?_ Lena. Ed-w-»cQ L_ A-mfTim 
and Maix L. Mis. SchmiciE faiber was Joitm B. BJreabnTg. wbo was 'r«oni in 5ei»- 
barie ecwnTTr sad eajue uo MoDtromenr eoimtr wben a joimg maa. wbere be mairied 
Jane A. Boss of tiis ooebtt asd bas fonr jaaldreii: Darid H_ Loenima. Amy J_ amd 
Brron. Tbe famjh" is of German. Freoeii aod ScoS^ ecEracsaaii. 

Osn-ciin. DaaieL AjnsierdaaEL was bans in GleETiDe Jannarr 30, lS4a. wk edncaied 
in lije public schools, and was a fsriner nmi! be came to Amsieridais in me Tear 1^70. 
Ib 1S7i be weni ilt* tbe rrooerr bnsjn^ whieb be bas eaniinaed siooe. He is aiao in 
oomparT wiii T. H. Sectan Crane. aeaHers in tbe t«es: tna>> of carnaEe niKDEiacEiirBd. 
mi i Vtrg a s>=!ciiLhT cif tbe Col-nmbus Bn^gx Co's. carrisf-es.. e^c Itr. Cfsrrmi's iaiier 
(Jjazsms) w-as bom a: WaterrBfT Februarr ii i ?'!>£. aii3 nacried A>.Ti-t-~ Carrol! 
formeKT of Ma^acbasezts. Tber sad iVneer cbfjaren asd nine grew to aniiii age. 
Mr. Osirom is aTDernt-er of AinsierdaiD Lods* ^a lEri L O. O. F. and of Mobawi 
TaBer Lodge 5"a 2Cf& A. O. U. W. alsio of J. D. Serriss Steajnes- C-a Xo. 1 of tbe 
Fire DcjiarEiie::!. Tbe famihr is of Daich descent. 

Godwin. Joan D_ Ams^terdam. was bans in Fooda Oet»3t>eT 36. 1S4S, w^as educated m 
tbe pabljc scboob and in earhr Eie was a paints-. He came to Amsisrdam in lSfi2_ 
and was derk for three jears in a oonfeeiianeirj store. He was in ene of the knitring 
m.Tls for ffieei: Tears as cnlier. and rwo Tears as foTeiDi:n. and was m tbe dotbe?- 
"wTmsG^ fadorr with the iale Johi; Totmg & Sons sexez - -■ - - --'s :x E. J. LewTs's 
shoe sxoire triree Tears. Has 'c»eer in the eroperr V^tict' r - * ri!? and is s^eniM" 

laember of ibe firm of Godwin & Fine. He bas teen s::.; . ; . _ :_e First "Ward and 

is BOW aldenBaa. He is a meoiber of Azosierdam Lodge 2s o. 134 L O. O. F. also of 
AoisierdazD Lodge Ko. 100 K. off P^ ^so <rf Mobawk vijej Lodge :Sa 2» A. O. U- 
W. aod o€ the BeneEt Hose Co. Jfo. i d ■&» lire Bepanment. May ii. 19BS, he 
honied Cornelia C. Davis of tius dxj, aod li>eT baxe two STing <iildiiQi : Sua CL. 
who married Gesoige Ijte of this citT ; and Fraae^ E_ who marned FHmk Sarie of 
tbis citT. Tbe famaJr is of Engli^ Gcnnan aod Welsh ancesiiy. 

Cadman, Charles H-. Amsterdam, was bora in Providenoe. Saraioga cotmrr. Jiilj- S, 
1?41. was ©daeated in lise pobbc sa^iooiL and in earlj fife was a fannex. Aiterwaids be 
learned tbe earpeiiier> tzade, and bas been a oontraetor az>d builder is A^eserdam 
abcKit sixteen jesrs. He bas married twice. £is: abead tbe rev 196S, HaOie i 



r.AMTT.Y RI>V W1HWR 311 

<j: bis SBSrre juace. ssf ibex ba£ T«r« (^£ld7cm. bed: sns, mx ef m^cra £ed is nimcr. 
sue StST'T: B.. -vbr -wxs bocx Aiigis: T. SSCC sod si^is lis &ilber ja dieiBEaoKS. )fas^ 
OanrniiT c»c jx IfTE. Is F«4c-Qsr<r. iSSS. be natrnefl. seoBod. Bailie Tedder, afee flf 
iis Eitrre r^cxTT. imfi lixT- i»T* • owariies', Mxrr A. 3k CadBaa>> Siidiec, B^bb;, 

■»rss X residei: a: liaa ennurr, anc msrnec Csihani* CSait Thex iac rww 4in]dHK, 
Crifc->ej liL sue li>si i_ Mrs. Oarnngr"? iaiier, Gssirse Tjifioer, •*-ie t»8rt si PmrideDee 
Autos: -■=. ^fiiif.. sue msmeB TWTCt. iiis fcs: -wSt bemir AiKreHi>e Siu:^ >7 '«r)>am lie 
bar rvrr sms iclc s ciiiu^ier : G«ar£« S.. 'wiiD :«9des '«rriii hs s^eir. SIts. C^asai a 
tiis i-rv : Azu^iCr* auo £u^ik-c. For iij seoanc »-ife ie aacneid Ejeimar S. I>iidl, if 
vhxi. Hi :^&d rv-e.rf t^iiid:>ei:^ Tvri of -irD^n: dieC in in&Bn'. Mis. OiiilliiMi was ^e 
z:>TrrzL atkiigiiis: zd ztis- marnafre. Mr. Camnax s a member ef AsKoeidHB Lti^eSaL 
134. L O. O. F- KDC aJSD a member cc iht Americaz: Mecbam^s AisuKsaiiaiL 

£]bfai£. G-so:?^ Amsagrnarr . if uif- T:vniu»<a cc imr cmJd^^c cc Marrm am^ SJesBer 
Etcoe. Marnr l^i'titde iras hccD ic JoimsifTn: Jdx S, 1S4£. H* maimed SSeaner, 
■oanriisr of frenrr* DetieE-. 5oni>er^r i^ IDoiaies ocamjT, sdc bad foot <^di«B, liuee 
-dsQftiis^ ia>c osf SOL : Mar^arex. CarotiD£. Arosa FL and Ccmge- Hartaa £%«» 've 
a iarmsr tixiiI hs vas £frr T«srs ojc. kqq came xc AmsUrdaD afeooinreDTT Tears k£l 
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fier of Jobns^oicx. it -vrhair. be bad two {^IdrcB, Mann Kid Jctei. viie reade ia 
Tiflaiiiiaii II l%e ameesiTT s ox Si^Ssk iDd GcnaiB exOaeaaDL 

J B a eMii A. Fredcsoef, Sl J^JUKxSie, itk bare ir Mee ^m b as . GcnnaxT. Jioie 3a. 
3%a. aad is a sbb of Lev^ ad Ckrafine Lac£ Bnpeiaadi, wlia case «e li^ ciooDzrv 
is Sijaemiwc 19Q, 'wiKre be leScnred bs irao^' fi! 'TlMwaVtg:. He reaoed eoie sob 
ami iaar dai^aeas . Ke sua leoeived is: f^^anawm is Ae si^bi^ at Sew Tofi tair, 
ami at &e age «f eln«B yeaas big an ta leaia ^e nade t£ fataset anifaet la ISTS be 
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ac paaaft-»iairJmg, and la 18SS e M ageid arsb S:^ ' ~ -^ : - In JaBosnr. ISSfi, be 

entahlrrhfJ Ir'niiijiHT vJi^ A. P. Bodi in die poar :~rv Tout amd m Apni 

eS dnt yearr •■•as bai i md eon, md dien caane ic ~ ;, -v-berc-besovcwTiKflB 

1 139 (pe^tainves. ir "aniiai be ::$ i^eisera. Tr.fmaper. £e ii: as aeove 
- of ibe £. CE P. He marraed is Febmsix. IfSI. Sehua Bo^ dai^^ 
aer ef Aapast Oe^e. amd day bave Sbut <dnl&ai Al&ied. Msiia, Waiter amd S^aa. 
Tber are meaidiess e€ ^be Xo^enB <^iuif^ 

maiKilaaii, Wa&an P^ Sa. JoaasriDe. ^ras btsx m SL Jafaisraie Ocaeber 3b. 1^9 
amd s a saa «f E&sfca amd Lama (Paraee) Easterfaroct IW giimtiKmh ec, £«ben. -vas 
ban m Tiiiaiiin aad ease «a 3l JfilaenBe pner » d« war «b 1S12. Be £ed m 
. Mk^m% oMOECf. Bs saa. ISi&a. vse bars Asgast 11, 18l& Se earned an fan^- 
maka^ at St Johmerile amd Smi Oredu He fied Aa^aet 2. IdGS. His vijev^ban 
Ai^n?! £. 190S, a Sl TalaaiTRi, and «w a dai^a ei cC Sanmel A. Paraee. vbo £ad 



312 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

December 26, 1859, aged eighty -seren years. They had one child, William P., our sub- 
ject, who received a district school education and worked in his father's store fifteen 
years. At the age of twenty-five he began business for himself at East Creek, and in 
1855 located in St Johnsville. Two years later he and his father engaged in the brick 
business until 1885, when he retired. He married Mariah J., daughter of John P. 
Cline, and his wife died September 30, 1863, leaving no children. He is a Repub- 
lican in politics. 

Folmsbee, Hartley, St. Johnsville, was born in South Valley, Otsego county, July 1, 
1857, and is a son of John and Mahala (Daly) Folmsbee. He received a common school 
education, supplemented by a course at the Academy. At the age of sixteen he began 
working for himself, and at the end of four years he took his earnings and bought land 
for speculation in Nebraska. In the spring of 1884 he came to St. Johnsville and en- 
gaged in the foundry business with William Fonda, and since 1887 has had entire con- 
trol. He employs seven men and ships to all parts of the country. He is a Republican 
in politics. He married, February 6, 1884, Kate D., daughter of William and Eva A. 
(Silvernail) Fonda, by whom he has had two children, Louis W. and Leon M. The 
grandfather, John (whose father, John, came from Holland), hved and died m Otsego 
county. He reared two sons, John and Thomas, and ten daughters, all of whom grew 
to maturity. Our subject's father was born in Otsego county in 1822 and died in 1873 
He was a Republican. His wife survives him at the age of sixty-one years. They had 
ten children: Dempster, who was killed in Sand Bank; Malissa, deceased; Dexter, 
Roseltha, Elizabeth, deceased, who left one child ; Myron, Hartley, Herman, Elthera. 
who died aged twenty-one, and Arthur. 

Markell, Jacob H., St. Johnsville, son of Nancy and Henry (Keeler) Markell, was 
born m St. Johnsville February 27, 1822, and received a common school and academic 
education. After his father's death he took charge of the home farm, and at the age of 
thirty went to Brockport. and entered the Brockport Exchange Bank as teller, remain- 
ing six years. He was cashier four years. In 1859 he returned to his native town, 
and in 1880 entered the First National Bank there as assistant cashier until 1890, when 
he was made cashier. He has served as supervisor on the Democratic ticket. April 
15, 1857, he married Catharine, daughter of Peter P. and Lana (Nellis) Fox. She died 
May 10, 1892, They had no children. Mr. Markell is a Mason, and one of the organ- 
izers of the lodge in St. Johnsville. The grandfather, Jacob (son of Jacob who came 
from Germany and settled in Stone Arabia), served in the revolutionary war and died 
in Herkimer county about 1860. He served one term in congress about the year 1816. 
By his wife. Elizabeth Snell. he had seven children, of whom the sons were, Henry, 
John, and George. Henry, who was the father of tfacob H., was born in Stone 
Arabia and moved with his parents to Herkimer county. About 1820 they removed 
to St. Johnsville, where he practiced law. In 1824 he was elected to congress, where 
ue served two terms. He died in 1839, aged thirty-nine. His four children were 
Jacob H., Peter K , who died aged twenty-seven ; Elizabeth, and Henry. 

Jenks, Henry G., St. Johnsville. was born in Ephratah July 22, 1849, a son of 
Rufus and Anna (Graves) Jenks. He received a common school education, and at the 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 315 

age of twenty-one began business for himself in the paper business, with his father 
In 1878 he moved on the farm where he at present resides, consisting of 156 acres. 
He married July 10, 1870, Mary, daughter of Jonathan and Mary (Snell) Mosher, and 
they have three children : Charles. Frank, and Hattie. The father of Henry G. wa& 
born in Providence, R. I., in 1810, a scythe maker by trade. He afterwards engaged 
in the paper business, which he followed for twenty-five years. After the war he came 
to St. Johnsville, where he built and operated an axe factory, employing about ten or 
twelve laborers. About 1872 he removed to Gravesville, where he and his wife now 
reside. They had sis children : Sophia, who died and left one son ; Josephine, George, 
Anna, Henry C, and Mary, who died in infancy. 

Storms, Emory G., St. Johnsville, was born where he now resides, March 10, 1833, 
a son of John and Catharine C. (Northrup) Storms. His grandfather was John Storms, 
who was born in Dutchess county and settled on the 100 acres now occupied by the 
subject of this sketch. His wife was Sarah Bartlett, and they had three children : 
Henry, John, and Elizabeth. John Storms was born in April, 1812, and is now living 
in St. Johnsville. He was a Democrat up to 1848, when he became a Whig, and is 
now a Republican. His wife died in February, 1885, leaving four children : Emory G., 
Sarah M., Daniel J., and Elmina J. Emory was raised on a farm and educated at the 
common school and Fairfield Academy. He taught school one term and then taught 
music in Dickinson Seminary in Pennsylvania. He has since been engaged in farming 
and the sale of musical instruments of all kinds. He and his wife own the homestead 
and eighty-five acres in Fulton county, and also own property in St. Johnsville. He 
has been a contributor to the Utica and Amsterdam newspapers. He was appointed 
postmaster at Crum Creek, under Buchanan, and held the office until 1891. He is a 
Republican. He married, July i, 1855, daughter of Nicholas N. and Effa (Wire) Shaf- 
fer, and they have three children : Frances Adelaide, Mary E. Smith, and Emma J. 
Our subject and wife are members of the M. E. church. 

Richards, Warren N., St. Johnsville, was born at Ingham's Mills August 21, 1839, a 
son of Rev. William I. and Margaret (Snell) Richards. His father was a M. E. minis- 
ter, and a member of Black River Conference, afterwards transferred to Genesee Con- 
ference. This preacher was the father of six children : Theodore, Huldah Ann (Scott) ; 
Warren N. ; Lieutenant Duane, an Andersonville prisoner; Mary (Reece) ; and Julia 
(Peet), who was afterwards married to Lewis Files. Warren N. settled in St. Johns- 
ville in 1859, and followed farming for six years. In 1865 he began railroading as 
fireman and engineer, which occupation he followed until 1885, when he engaged in 
the flour and feed business until 1890 ; he then entered the employ of the X. T. C. & 
H. R. R. R. Company, where he remained until January, 1892, when he engaged with 
the Mohawk Condensed Milk Company. He married, March 29, 1860, Christina, 
daughter of Edwin and Maria M. (Klock) Snell, who were parents of six children : 
Christina (Richards) ; Maria (Finehart), deceased ; Calista (Loomer) ; Joseph G. ; 
Eugene E. ; and Jacob, deceased. Warren and wife are connected with the M. E. 
church, in which he has been class leader, steward and chorister. He is a member of 
the A. 0. U. W. and Royal Arcanum. They have three daughters: Lillie L., wife of 



3U HISTORY OF MOSTGOMERT COUyTT. 

John Klock : Cora E., wife of Reuben B. Porter : and Maria JI. Sisum. Lillie and 
Maria are members of the M. E. church, and Cora of the Reformed church. Mrs. 
Richards"? mother is the daughter of Joseph G. and Christina (Buret) Klock, and he was 
a son of George G., whose father was Henry Klock, who was one of three brothers 
who came from Germany and settled in the Mohawk Valley in 170S. 

Chawgo, Jacob, deceased, was a son of Mary (Flanders) Chawgo. His grandfather 
was Jacob, a Frenchman, who settled in Oneida county and moved thence to Otsego 
county ; in 1S31 he came to uppier St. Johnsrille, and occupied a large tract of land 
where he died. His wife was Mary Herring, who bore him two sons and four 
daughters. Our subject's father was bom in Onondaga county and came to St. 
JohnsTille in 1S31, where he died. He had a family of two sons and three daugh- 
ters. Our subject was born in Springfield, Otsego county. May 3, 1S24, and died 
March 12. 1S91. He was an active member of the Reformed church choir for 
thirty-five years. He filled several town offices^ He was a jeweler by trade, and owned 
the homestead of two hundred acres. He married June IS. 1S7~. Louisa A., adopted 
daughter of Henry and Betsey ^Parker) Vedder, Louisa's parents were Benjamin and 
Louisa (Vedder) Carpenter. Henry Vedder was born in Oppenheira, was a Democrat 
up to ISSO when he became a Republican, and was a Lutheran. - He raised a family of 
three sons and four daughters. He moved to upper St. Johnsville in 1865. where he 
died April 6, ISSl, aged eighty-two: his widow died in December, 1890, in her ninety- 
third year ; she was born in Ireland, and her parents were George and Katie ^Parker) 
Parker. Jacob Chawgo and wife had two children : Jay and May (deceased). Mrs. 
Chawgo has erected a fine residence in St. Johnsville, where she has lived since 1S92. 

Failing, Daniel, St Johnsville, was born February 2S, 1S2-5, a son of Nicholas and Mary 
(Vonker) Failing. His grandfather was Jacob Failing, who was born in St Johnsville 
about 1760 ; be was a soldier in the revolutionary army and was at the battle of Oris- 
kany ; his wife was Mary Cos, who bore him five sons and one daughter. Nicholas 
Failing was born near St. Johnsville, but moved to Oppenheim where he died. He 
had seven children — three sons and four daughters — of whom our subject is the only 
one living, Daniel Failing received a common school education, and began when 
twenty-one as a farmer on a hundred acres in Fulton county. In 1879 he sold out 
and moved to St. Johnsville village. In ISSl he bought 220 acres in the north- 
west part bf St Johnsville, He has served as supervisor. He married, December 
15, 1847. Eliza, daughter of Jonathan and Mary Bacon; they have had four chil- 
dren: George B., Dell, Charles (deceased) and Hattie, who died at the age of 
thirteen. 

Snell. Edwin S,, St, Johnsville, was born in Oppenheim, October 27, 1844, son of 
Bernard and Emeline (Bartlett) Snell. His grandfather was Adam, who was born at 
Snell's Bush, where he lived and died ; his wife Elizabeth bore him ten children. 
Our subject's father was born at Snell's Bush in 1802 ; after his marriage he moved 
to Fulton county where he resided until 1S56, when he went to Little Falls for a 
short time, returning to Fulton county ; in 1866 he moved to St. Johnsville and 
died jthere in 1S71 : his wife died in 1865; they had three children: Morena (de- 



FAMILY SKETCHE& Zl» 

ceased). Morgan and Edwin S. The latter was raised on a farm and was educated 
at tlie district school. At twelve vears of aee he worked for $4 a month and at 
twenty-one began for himself on his father's farm. In 1S70 he purchased 150 
acres of land. He married February 22, 1S65. Almeda. daughter of Stephen and 
Hannah ^Vassler") Waters of St. Johnsville. Thev have two children : Emma, wife 
of Clark Markell. and Norman. Mrs. Snell is a member of the M. E. church. 

Walrath, Martin, St. Johnsville, was born two miles north of St. Johnsville, February 
13, 1S45, a son of Martin and Julia (Flanders) Walrath. His grandfather was Adam, 
born in St. Johnsville, where he lived until his death at the age of eighty-four. Martin 
senior was born in lSl-1 in St. Johnsville, where he spent hishfe, dyingin ISSo ; his wife 
survives him, aged seven ty-one. Our subject was raised on a farm and educated at the 
district school. He taught school two terms ; at twenty-two he began clerking in 
Fort Plain, and was also in the timber business. He was for four years superintendent 
of the St. Johnsville Agricultural Works. In 1S81 he started a milk condenser, which 
he sold out in ISs^ : he was postmaster from 1SS6 to 1S91. and in 1S83 was elected to 
the assembly. He married. June 13, 1S77, Celestia E.. daughter of Dr. Leonard G. 
and Elizabeth B. ^Brown) Haskins. They have two children : Leonard G. and Eliza- 
beth May. Mr. Walrath is a Mason and Knight Templar. 

Don. William E., St. Johnsville. was born July 20, 1862, son of Alex, and Susan 
(Edwards) Don. His grandfather was Wiiliani Don. who lived in Amsterdam, and died 
June 9, 1839. Our subject's father was born in Amsterdam, married October 30, 1860, 
Susan, daughter of John T. and Mary (Cook) Edwards, and died January 23, 1870. 
William E. Don married, February 1 1, 1885, Katie, daughter of Amos and Nancy (Lipe) 
Klock. They have three children ; MoUie, Frank and Alexander. He operates his 
mother's farm. 

Butler. William James, St. Johnsville, a son of Jabez and Saline (Hartwell) Butler, 
was born at Borne. His father was a miller by trade, and came to St. Johnsville. He 
msxried February 4. 1862. Catharine, daughter of George A. and Mary (Flanders) 
Chawgo. Jacob Chawgo was born, it is supposed, in Montgomery county. His father 
came from France. Jacob was a mechanic, and worked as blacksmith and millwright. 
He moved to Otsego and came thence to St. Johnsville, and with his son, George E., 
purchased two hundred acres of land west of the village. He died there at the age of 
seventy-four. His wife was Catherine Herring, who died aged eighty-five years. They 
had seven children: Eve. George E., Mary, Margaret, Catherine, Nancy and John, 
who all lived to maturity and raised families. Mrs. Catherine (Herring) Chawgo was 
born at Stone Arabia. Her father was a pioneer, and with two sisters, was taken pris- 
oner by the Indians during the revolution. The women were released, hut he was 
carried to Canada and held for two years. George E. Chawgo was horn in Oppenheim, 
September 4, 1790; his wife was born February 23, 1792. He died at the age of 
eighty-seven, and his wife at the same age. Their children were : Louisa, Jacob, Ab- 
ner, Catherine and Harriet ; all married and raised families. Mrs. Butler is tlie only 
one now living. Subject and his wife are the parents of three children : Martha, 
Mary and George C, all members of the Reformed church.' 



316 mSTOKT OF MOXTGOMEBT COUNTY. 

Handy. Ervin A., St. JohnsviUe, Tras born June 26, 1862. in Oppenheim, a son of 
Darid and Sarah E. (Walrath) Handy, and grandson of David, vrho came from 
Massachusetts and settled in Oppenheim. He was a soldier in the war of 1S12. His 
wife was a Sliss Baum by whom he had four sons and one daughter. Our subject's 
father was born in Oppenheim, and worked at his trade of blacksmith in St. 
JohnsTille. where he came when a boy. He enlisted in Company G, One Hundred 
Fifteenth New York Volunteers in the fall of 1862, and was taken prisoner at Har- 
per's Ferry, and was discharged for disability. Returning to St. Johnsrille he en- 
gaged in farming and lue hotel business. He was a Democrat and served as jus- 
tice of the peace. He died February IS, 1890, aged sixty-three years. His wife 
survives. They had two cnildren, Rosetta Crause, and our subject Ijvin A. Handy 
at the age of fifteen entered a drug store as clerk, which occupation he followed 
for twelve years; in 1890-92 he was clerk in the freight office, and at the latter 
date formed a partnership with Charles Whyland, in the drug and hardware busi- 
ness. He has served in town offices, and is a Mason and chief of the fire depart- 
ment. He married, June 10, 1885, Ella G., daughter of Oliver and Ann (Ketchum) 
Sneil : they have one child, George Raymond. They are members of the Reformed 
church. 

Pitcher, George O., St. Johnsville, was born in Cooperstown, November IS. 1842, 
and is a son of John and Mary A. (Townsend) Pitcher, and grandson of Truman Pitch- 
er, who was born in Connecticut, coming thence to Washington coimty, and afterwards, 
in 1S16. to Cooperstown. John A. Pitcher was bom in Washington county April 1, 
1812, received a common school education, read law with Burdick <t Griffen. and was 
a mason by trade. In 1850 he located at Van Hornsville. He died July 8. 1890, and 
his wife in the fall of 1891. aged sisiy-eight They raised two children. George 0. 
and Mary Kershaw. George O. attended the common school, and at the age of fifteen 
began work on a farm, and at eighteen in a machine shop, where he continued until 
1S62. when he began clerking in a grocery store in Van Hornsville, where he was engaged 
two vears. Until 1871 he was in the hotel business in Van Hornsville and Starkville; 
and at the latter date he went to Otsego and ran a hotel, whence he came to St. Johns- 
ville in 1875. and bought and ran the Empire House for fourteen years, but now rents 
his property. He is a stockholder in the piano factory, and has built a fine residence. 
He belongs to the Masonic order and the A. 0. U. W. He married, first, Emily, daugh- 
ter of Jacob Blunt, and had two children. His wife died July 6. 1867, and he married 
Elizabeth A. Cramer. His son, Deo A., died at the age of twenty-four. He was 
educated in the High school and at Worcester ; he was a Mason, and was in the 
Guarantee Mutual office in New York and the mail service, and was a talented 
young man. 

Klock, Zebina R, St. Johnsville, was bom in St. JohnsviUe, June 12. 1846, and is a 
son of Xehemiah and Almira (Shall) Klock. and grandson of John Klock. who was bom 
in St. Johnsville, and married Gertrude Timmerman. who bore him eight children. He 
was in the war of 1812, and had a farm on East creek. He died at the age of eighty- 
sis, and his wife .it seventy-eisht. The father of our subject was born in St. Johnsville 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 317 

and was killed by the kick of a horse in 1850, when he was twenty-six years of age. 
He hiid three children, Z. R., Calvin E. and Kehemiah R. His widow married John J. 
Wagoner. Zebina R. Klock was raised ic Danube, to which place his father moved in 
the spring of lS-16. He attended the district school until he was fifteen, when he went 
to work by the month. At twenty he worked a farm for a year, and then spent a year 
at railroading, after which he began the carpenter's trade, which he has since followed. 
In ISSl he came to St. Johnsville and bought a saw-mill and spoke factory ; also ran 
a feed mill. He is a member of the I. 0. H. and Order of J)gis. He has been twice 
married; first to Maria, daughter of Horatio and Elizabeth (Timmerman) Freeman, who 
bore him tliree children : Frank B., Horatio and Lena (deceased). His wife died August 
14, 1875, and he married, second, Gertrude, daughter of John B. and Eliza ( Klock ) 
Robinson, by whom he has had two children, Lewis M. and Helen E. He and wife 
are members of the Baptist church. He has an interest in a farm of 100 acres, also 
runs a general store. 

Smith, Jonas S.. St. Johnsville, was born in St. Johnsville August 28, 1855, and is a 
son of Aaron and Elizabeth (Snell) Smith, and a grandson of Frederick Smith who was 
born in Ephratah, was a lieutenant in the war of 1812, and married Elizabeth Cool, by 
whom he had six boys and two girls. He died at the age of fifty-three. Our subject's 
father was born in Oppenheim December 25, 1820, was a railroad man, and held town 
offices. For the past twelve years he has lived a retired life. His wife was a daughter 
of Jacob Snell ; she was the mother of eight children and died in 1859. Jonas S. Smith 
was raised on a farm, and at nineteen began life for himself at clerking, which he fol- 
lowed for six years, when he engaged m the piano and organ busmess. In the spring 
of 1885 he bought and operated a brick yard. He is a Democrat. February 25. 1885, 
he married Jennie, daughter of Martin and Hattie M. ( Burch ) Williams who died in 
October of the same year. 

Flanders. Martin, St. Johnsville, was born in St. Johnsville June 9, 1828, and is a son 
of Christopher and Mary (Hearing) Flanders, and a grandson of Jacob, whose father 
was Jacob, an emigrant from Holland. Our subject's grandfather was born in St. Johns- 
ville, was a farmer, and a member of the Dutch Reformed church. His wife was Cath- 
arine Fox. by whom he had five children : Christopher. Benjamin, Jacob, Mary and 
Margaret. Christopher Flanders was born April 8, 1808, in St. Johnsville; he was a 
farmer, a Democrat, and held town offices. His children were: Martin, Reuben. Xan- 
cy. Catharine, Mary James and Ezra, all married. He and his wife were members of 
the Reformed church. His death occurred in 1883, and that of his wife in 1889. Mar- 
tin Flanders married in June, 1852, Esther, daughter of Jacob J. and Catharine (Shaf- 
fer) Klock, by whom he had seven children, as follows: Albert, Emily, wife of Milford 
Shafler; Mary, wife of Dan D. Walrath ; Julia, wife of Frank Moyer ; Carrie, deceased ; 
Helen, wife of Fred Gering; and Rule. He owns a farm of fifty acres, and has worked 
at the carpenter's trade all his life. In 1883 he moved to St. Johnsville, where he 
erected a residence in which he has since lived. He is a Democrat, and he and 
his wife are members of the Dutch Reformed church. 

Sutherland, Henry L., St. Johnsville, was born in Canajoharie October 4, 1850, a son 
of Lewis and Margaret (Fresch) Sutherland, and grandson of Frederick Sutherland, 



31S HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

who came from Germany and settled in Canajoharie. He moved to Oswego, lU., 
where he and his wife died. The father of our subject was bom m Germany January 
20. 1S16. His wife was born in Wurtemburg. Germany. June ", 1SC5, and came here 
with her parents, Andrew and >rary Fresch. He was a cooper. In the spring of ISoS 
he located in Sl Johnsville, where he still lives. They are the parents of six children : 
Clark E., Edward W., H. L.. Charles. Fred, and Minnie. Clark served in the Sixteenth 
Heavy Artillery; Edward seved in the 115th New York Volunteers, and is now in Chi- 
cago. Henry L., in 1S75, began as a job printer, which business he followed for two 
years, and then went to Chicago, and worked for tlie Bell Telephone Company, then 
with A. T. Hartwell & Company, as book-keeper for one year. In 1S82 he returned 
to St Johnsville and engaged in the insurance and real estate business with M. Wal- 
rath until 18S6, since which date he has been alone. He is a Republican and has 
served as collector four terms. 

Bauder, John M., Root, father of Mrs. Angelica Spencer, was born at YatesvUle May 
29, 1795. He was a farmer, and October 31, lSl-1, married Magdalen Dostator of his 
native county, and they had four children: John, Dorcas, Angelica, and Malachi (who 
died aged about four). Angelica was born at the old homestead, and married Albert 
Spencer of Flat Creek September 9, 1852. They had one son, Malachi, who was born 
June 2. 1S54. He was educated in the common schools, and was a merchant and 
farmer. He married Kattie I. Yan Schaick of this place, and they have two children, 
Emmett L. and James A. Mrs, Spencer's grandfather. John Doxtator. was a soldier 
in the war of 1S12. Her paternal grandfather, John Bauder, was one of the first set- 
tlers near Yatesville. Her brother's son, Isaac Bauder, was a soldier in the late war. 
Mr. Spencer died September 12, 1S83. 

Sammons, Colonel Simeon, Mohawk, son of Thomas, was born in the town of Mo- 
hawk May 23, 1811. He was educated at Johnstown, and was bred on the old home- 
stead farm. The family has been identified with the history of the Mohawk valley for 
more than a century, and Sampson Sammons. the colonel's grandfather, had charge of 
Johnson Hall under the Tryon county committee, during the revolntion. Thomas 
Sammons, the colonel's father, was elected to congress for two terms and the family 
has held other positions of prommence. Colonel Sammons always had a military taste 
and in early life held a commission in the militia. When the rebellion broke out he 
raised the 115th New York Regiment, of which he was colonel. The services of this 
regiment are detailed in the chapter on the miUtary history of the covmty. Colonel 
Sammons fought at Olustee and at Petersburg, and was twice wounded. He held 
the office of supervisor several terms. He married Barbara Gross, daughter of Henry 
Gross, and they have had four children : Mary C, Henry G.. Lydia, wife of Isaac H. 
Fonda, station agent at Fonda; and Jane Emma. Colonel Sammons was member of 
assembly one term, and was also harbor master for the port of New York. He died in 
March, 18S1, and his widow resides on the homestead. 

Yunk, John H., Root, father of Frank, was born in Charleston (now Glen") December 
26, IS15. He was educated in the public schools of that day. and was a farmer. No- 
vember 14, 1839. he married Alice, fifth daughter of Ephraim and Abigail (Kenyon) 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 319 

I?ircli of Charleston. They had three daughters and a son: Rosiellen, who mnrried 
Robert Cros.s of Cobleskill, Schoharie county, N. Y. ; Emma V., who married Allen 
Borden of the town of Glen; Anna V., who married Bentley Johnson of Amsterdam; 
and Frank, who was born in the town of Charleston. The latter was educated in the 
public school. He also is a farmer. June 26, 1884, he married Olive, oldest daughter 
of Joseph and Lucy Ann (Humphrey) Bell of Charleston. Henry, grandfather of Frank 
Vunk, was born in Monmouth, N. J., January 31, 1792, and came with his parents to 
this county when an infant. He married Elizabeth Reese, and they had fourteen 
children. His great-grandfather, Henry, was in the war of the revolution, was taken 
prisoner in the battle of Monmouth. In the family of Epliraim and Abigail Birch there 
were twelve children. John H. Vunk had two uncles in the war of 1812, Barnes and 
William. Joseph Bell, father of Mrs. Vunk, resides on his farm of 121 acres in the town 
of Charleston, where he wa.» born March 9, 1814. He married Lucy Ann Humphrey 
February 8, 1844, of the same town, she was born April 21, 1819. They had these 
children : Olive, born December 23, 1848, married Frank Vunk ; Isaac P., born Sep- 
tember 2, 1851 ; John II., born November 8, 1853 ; Mary Ette, born March 12, 1856, 
married Hiram Eaton March 1, 1885; Charles J., born July 11, 1858, married Etta 
Montanye March 2, 1884. Peter, father of Joseph Bell, and grandfather of Mrs. Vunk, 
married Mary, daughter of Abram Lott, and had eight children. Peter was born at 
Half Moon, Saratoga county. James Humphrey, father of Lucy Ann, and maternal 
grandfather of Mrs. Vunk, was born January 13, 1776, in Duanesburg, and married 
Mrs. Lucy Burton, whose maiden name was Brown. She was born February 27, 1782, 
in Connecticut. 

Eaverson, Adam, Palatine, was born in Mohawk December 11, 1843, a son of Hiram 
(born December 24, 1823) and Caroline Vroman (born May 26, 1829, died April 4, 1876,) 
Eaverson. They had a family of four sons and seven daughters. Adam Eaverson was 
raised on a farm and attended the common school. He followed clerking for several 
years, afterwards engaging in mercantile business at Argusville; later he bought and 
conducted for five years a hotel at Randall. In 1890 he came to Nelliston and engaged 
in mercantile business which he has since followed. He is deputy postmaster there. 
Mr. Eaverson married, December 20, 1876, Isabella, daughter of David (born May 30, 
1811) and Nancy Ford (born January 4, 1816, died February 13, 1877) Kretser. Their 
children are as follows, namely : Nellie, born September 5, 1877 ; Frank, born April 23, 
1880; Wannetta, born August 9, 1891. 

Sherwood, John B., Amsterdam, Rockton p. o., was born in Williamstown, Mass., 
October 27, 1838, a son of Daniel and Lucy (Green) Sherwood. Jonathan Sherwood, 
grandfather of the subject of our sketch, came from Connecticut to Massachusetts early 
in 1700. Daniel A., father of our subject was born in Massachusetts December 10, 1805, 
and came to Fulton county in 1851. His death occurred April 17, 1883, leavmg a wife 
and three children: Carrie Veeder of Fulton, born June 2, 1845; Lucy Blauvelt of 
Rockland county, born January 16, 1847, and John B. When he was eleven years old 
his parents moved to Fulton county. He attended school at Fairfield Academy, and 
received a good business education. After graduating, for a few years he taught school 



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322 HISTORY OF MOXTGOMKRT CX)rXTT. 

qaano^ of his bodj vere htm^ op in as manr piaoes aboat the nearest town, tetoied 
by iron chains, which diains are sdll on exhibition at a place in Holland called Xjm- 
wej-en and were seen bj some membos of the present Schencfc familj a few jeais 
since at Xrmwegen. where his name is choished as dsewh«<e in H<dland. His faroth- 
-er Peter came to this conntij in the jear 1&50. and settled in Long Island, from which 
place rarions brandies of the family onacated. many settling in Xew Jeiser wfaoe 
serera! fomili^ are stin to be foand. and especiallj in Uonmonih coonlv, where the 
gresi-great-grandfather of the writer of this sketdi was bore, and married to Miss 
Marj Winters, and tbej lived in Xew Jersey all their lives. Th^r son. Ralph, the 
great-grandfather of the present family, was bom in the town of Amwell, X. J., in 
1740. and married Ann Taylor, a first consin <rf G«n«al Zachary Taylcw. onr twelfth 
President, the loth of October. 1774, and fonr of their tdiildren were honx th^e, in- 
cluding William, the grandfather of this famOy. who was bom May 13, 1777: the 
•otho- three wmc Rebecca. Mary and Ann. They then moved to the town of Johns- 
town, Xew York, and there Edward Taylor, £3eanor, Alida, Catharine, Margaret and 
Sarah were bom. Ralph Schenck was one of the old pioneers of that then wild, on- 
developed region, where he performed his part well in the advancement of civilization 
and in the caase of human freedom. Wlien the doods of war and revohition borst 
over the land Mr. Schenck enlisted in the caose of oar young, stn^gliog r^MiUic, and 
shonldering his musket marched boldly to the fidd of suife. He fought with hat>ic 
valor in the fierce battles of Monmouth and Cowpens, and was highly commended by 
h:s superior officers for his bravery on the field. In those dark days which tried men's 
souls his courage never flagged in the caose of freedom, but with his face to the foe oo 
many a hotly contested battle-field, he strove manfully to maintain the honor of oar 
gag, and the independence of oar country. And to-day his name is still honored aa 
one of the true and brave men of the revolution. On every renjiming Dec(B«tion Day 
his grave at Johnstown, where he died, is decorated for his bravery as a revolotitnary 
soldier, with the graves of those noble men who in recent times fell while fighting for 
the imperilled ITcion. He held the rank of first lientenant, and died September 5, 1S36. 
His son William, of whom we have spoken, lived with his father nntil he married his 
first wife, Sarah Wood. June 17, 179S, and bved for a few years <» a farm aboat two 
miles south of Liiile FaQs, from which place he moved to SamnxHisviUe, wh^e his 
wife died. May 14. 1S03, leaving two children, Ralph and Lydia. He married his sec- 
ond wife. Rachel Sammons, at Sammonsville, Mardi 17, 1S05, by whom he had seven 
SODS and four daughters, namely : Benjamin. William, Richard, John, Edward Tavlor, 
Jacob, Garret, Ann. Sarah. Rebecca and RadiaeL After his second marriage William 
Schenck b^an life on a farm at Sammonsville. and &om that place moved on a large 
tract of land of several hnodred acres pnrdiased from John Dewandler who bad bought 
the property from M«or Jellis Fonda of wdl known revolntionary fame, who had here 
a store and a miU. as well as a grand brick house which was burned in Jotm Johnson's 
raid. After William Schenck obtained possesion of the property, he carried cm an 
extensive milling business, consisting of a grist mill saw mill, fuUmg miU. plaster mill 
and cider mill, also a blacksmith shop and cooper shop. He was well sostained in his 
extensive business by his sons, and especially by his son Benjamin, who even when a 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 325 

mere boy in his teens had charge of the large farms and milling business entirely in 
his fathers absence, and often had sixty men employed at a time. They had at that 
time a splendid water power from the then durable creek, known as Kanagara, and a 
large, valuable spring, known as " the cold spring at Schenck's, a famous picnic ground. 
The produce from the farms and milling business was taken across the Mohawk river 
at the place by the use of a rope ferry, and loaded on canal boats, as the present rail- 
road system wjis unknown at that time. More than sixty years ago William Schenck 
built a large and substantial brick house, which is still standing, near the site where 
the boaee of Major Jellis Fonda was burned by the Indians in the revolutionary 
war. A well, sixty feet deep, made by Fonda, is still in one of tlie yards, and 
there are still standing many apple trees set out by him at least 150 years ago. 
Besides being a place of revolutionary note it is a place of great natural beauty, 
and has on it beautiful woodland and fifteen springs of excellent water, which 
makes it a well-watered farm. Some of the springs are in such beautiful places 
that they are well worthy of notice Rachel Sammons, the second wife of William 
Schenck, died on the place October 31. 1840, and about two years after Williaai 
Schenck deeded die property to his son Benjamin, the father of the present family on 
the place, and went^to Wisconsin, where he died at Beloit July 16, 1852, after marry- 
ing his third wife, Jane ilcKnight. Benjamin Schenck was born March 21, 1806, and 
received his education in the common schools; he lived with his father until his 
father moved to Wisconsin. He married. December 30, 1S40, Susan Martin, who 
who was born at Fultonville, May 22. 1S18. After her marriage she came to live 
in the family residence built by William Schenck. in which she remained until the dav of 
her death, which occurred January 29. 1892, and in which also the nine children of Benja- 
min and Susan Schenck were born, whose names are : William Henry, Anna, Catharine, 
Margaret, Frances, Rachael, Benjamin, Edward Taylor and Elizabeth Haslett. Mrs. 
Susan Schenck was also of Holland Dutch origin and a direct descendant of the well 
known Staats and General Philip Schuyler family of revolutionary fame, and was a 
woman whose generosity was proverbial ; the poor people who lived in her neighborhood 
had reason to call her blessed. When Benjamin Schenck became the possessor of his 
father's property he took it with many encumbrances, but by prudence and industry he 
kept and improved it, and at the time of his death, which occurred August 11, 18V3, he 
had planted many beautiful trees and had built more than twenty miles of stone wall 
upon it He always stood by his word and signature, and notwithstanding the fact that 
he had lost several thousand dollars by endorsing, he thought men honest, and was ever 
ready to lend a helping hand in the same way. He always followed farming, stock-raising, 
lumbering and milling. He was a life-long Republican and himself and wife were 
members of the Reformed church at Canajoharie, and he kept besides at the time 
of his death a seat in each of the Reformed churches at Sprakers and Stone Arabia. 
He was also a director in the Canajoharie National Bank. In his lifetime he man- 
fully battled many financial obstacles, and died leaving an untarnished reputation 
to his children, six of whom'are still living, William Henry, Frances and Benjamin, 
jr., preceding their parents to the grave, Anna, Edward Taylor and Rachael are 
still living on the estate inherited from their father. Catharine married George A. 



324 HISTORY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

Nellis of Fonda, and is now at Bellows Falls, Vt., with her husband and only child, a 
daughter named Bertelle Schenck. Elizabeth H. married Oliver Winchester Dve of 
New Haven. Conn., and they are now living at Denver, Col. Martin married Adelle 
Van Evera of Sprakers, and has a son and a daughter named Gilbert and Su?an Eliza- 
beth. Thsy are living at Albany, where he has his office as state engineer and surveyor 
of New York State. The record formerly belonging to Major Jellis Fonda is now in 
possession of Edward T. Schenck, one of his lineal descendants. 

Hewitt, Margaret. — The late Nias Hewitt was born in Philadelphia, Pa., September 
10, 1842, and came with his parents here when a child. He was educated in the pub- 
lic schools of Amsterdam. He was brought up on a farm and became one of Amster- 
dam and Rockton's business men. January 15, 1873, he married Margaret, oldest 
daughter of John and Jane Weir of this place, formerly of Scotland. They had no 
children. Mr. Hewitt died May 18, 1881. The following extracts we take from 
obituary notes at the time of his death : " Mr. Hewitt began life in humble circum- 
stances, by industry, economy and probity he acquired a handsome competency. He 
had excellent business judgment and marked executive ability. Quiet in manner, re- 
ticent in speech, he gave the impress of much reserve force. His disposition was 
amiable and cheerful. He was a man of decided literary tastes, and his carefid reading 
gave him a large fund of information. He was a self-made man in every sense of the 
term, and was a member of the Methodist church and was interested in its Sabbath 
school, and in all matters that aimed at the elevation of mankind ; obeying the script- 
ural injunction in all things — not toletyour right hand know_ what the left hand doeth." 
In politics he was a faithful Republican. His wife was a member of the celebrated 
Weir family of physicians of Scotland, and her mother of the Clan of the MacDonalds, 
and on his side of good Quaker stock. 

Hogg, James, was born in Rawden, near Leeds, Yorkshire, England, November 10, 
1851. He entered one of the woolen mills there at an early age, where he worked in 
the carding and spinning departments. His father, John Hogg, owned several hand 
looms and spinning jenneys. In this business he was called upon to assist his father 
and soon became proficient in hand spinning and weaving. Hand-loom weaving being 
on the decline his family removed to Saltair and there entered the employ of Sir Titus 
Salt, Bart., Sons ct Co., where he laid a good foundation in the worsted business, hav- 
ing served an apprenticeship to wool sorting, after which he went to Greenock, Scot- 
land, to return to the worsted spinning and drawing. After acquiring considerable 
experience at the latter place he returned to his native place, Yorkshire, where he held 
positions in some of the largest and best mills in and around Bradford. At the age of 
twenty-five years he was president of-the Managers and Overlookers Provident Society 
in Bradford. In the year 1880 Mr. Hogg came to the United States and located at 
Lawrence, Mass., at which place he started up a worsted carpet-yarn mill for a new 
company which had just been formed at the time of his arrival. He remained in this 
position until the year 1888, when he came to Amsterdam to take charge as superin- 
tendent of the worsted mills of S. Sanford & Sons, which place he continues to fill. 
Mr. Hogg is the author of a book devoted to mill mathematics. He is also patentee 



FAMILY SKETCHES. 325 

of several inyentions, and although unfortunately deprived of the opportunity of an 
early education, he has attained the rank of being a high authority in mill mathe- 
matics and is considered a thoroughly practical mill man, with a good knowledge 
of the various classes of wool used in the manufacture of all grades of worsted yarns. 
Mr. Hogg married Mary Ann Waite of Guiseley. near his native place, who came to 
this country in the early part of 1881 with their five sons, viz. : Ernest, James Albert, 
Wilfred H„ G. Walter, and William Gordon who died at the age of thirteen years. 
Five more have been added to their family since they came to the United States, viz. : 
Florence Ida, Hattie M., Frank H., Jennie and Edna. 

Shubert, Frank, was born in the Hessian Province, Germany, January 21, 1841, and 
came to this country in 1857. He first located at Palatine Bridge, where he engaged 
with Loucks Shell on the Frey farm for one year; he then went into the shoe shop of 
Henry G. Winsmen of Canajoharie to learn the shoemakers' trade. He remained with 
him nearly three years and then went on a farm for a short time, but soon returned to 
the shoe business. On the 15th of August, 1861, he enlisted in the Forty-third New 
York Volunteers under Colonel Fenton. He saw service in nearly all the battles of 
the Peninsula, including Yorktown, Williamsburg, the seven days' fight, Crampton 
Pass, Antietara, Fredericksburg, Mary's Heights, Salem Heights, Gettysburg, Rappa- 
hannock Station, Mine Run, Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, Winchester, 
Fisher's Hill and Appomattox Court House. His regiment was in the Sixth corps 
throughout the war and was mustered out of service June 27th, 1865. Mr. Shubert 
was wounded at the battle of Cedar Creek, but he returned to the field the following 
February. At the close of the war he returned to his home and engaged in his old 
trade of .shoemaking, working at it for two months when he bought a half interest in 
the firm of Sticht Sz Brother, the firm name changing to Sticht & Shubert. The co- 
partnership lasted fourteen years, when it was dissolved by mutual consent, and Mr. 
Shubert bought the store where he now is in the Stumfield block,'.where he has done 
a successful business. He now does about $10,000 worth of business a year and is 
one of the leading business men of Canajoharie. He married in 1868 Cecelia M. Let- 
ter of this place, by whom he had four children, James F. who died September 8. 
1890, at twenty-one years of age; Frank M. was born January 19,1871; Walter L., 
bom in 1874 ; Bertil Henrietta, born September 17, 1885. 



INDEX 



(See Index to Family Sketches, Page 341.) 



Abeel, John, 233. 

father of Cornplanter, 218. 
Abercrombie, General, cowardice and in- 
decision of, at Ticonderoga, 50. 
culpability of, 49. 
inactivity of, 46. 
Academy, Amsterdam Female, 187. 
Adams, Henry, 155. 
Agricultural fairs, 142. 

Society, Montgomery county, pres- 
ent officers of, 143. 
Agriculture, state of early, 141. 
Aix-la-Chapelle, treaty of, 41. 
Akin, 183. 

E. A., 169. 
Louis, 171. 
Alder, Isaac, 191. 
Allen, L. K., 259. 

America before the discovery, 21. 
Ames, 248. 
Amsterdam Academy, 187. 

Arc Light Company, 196. 
earliest settlers of, 173. 
first town meeting in, 176. 
land patents in, 173. 
Library Association, 196. 
Medical Society, 196. 
press of, the, 197. 
Street Railroad Company, 196. 
supervisors of, 177. 
taxpayers of, in 1794, 176. 
topography of the, 172. 
town clerks of, 177. 
town officers of, 178. 
city of, as an incorporated village, 
184. 

board of trade of, 192. 
early manufacturers of, 205. 
early schools of, 187. 
educational institutions of, 187. 
fire department of, 191. 
G. A. R. Posts in, 214. 
Greenhill Cemetery in, 197. 



Amsterdam, city of, hosiery and carpet 
mills in : 

Amsterdam Knitting Com- 
pany, 209. 
Atlas Knitting Company, 

209. 
Green Knittine Company, 

206. 
Howgate, McCleary & Co., 

206. 
McElwain & Salisbury, 210. 
Mill, Amsterdam Silk, 210. 
Clermont Hosiery, 209. 
Mohawk Valley Ho- 
siery, 208. 
West End Knitting, 
209. 
Mills, Chuctenunda, the, 207. 
Clinton Hosiery, 207. 
McFarlan, the, 207. 
Metropolitan Hosiery, 

208. 
Pioneer Knitting, 207. 
Riverside, 208. 
Royal Knitting, 209. 
Spartan, the, 210. 
Morris" A. V., & Son, 209. 
Rowe, J. J., & Son, 210. 
Sanford S., & Sons, 206. 
Shuttleworth Brothers, 206. 
Hospital, 195. 
Masonic Societies in, 212. 
mayors of, 186. 
military organizations in, 215. 
miscellaneous manufactures of : 
Banta, L. & G. S., 212. 
Blood, J. D., & Co., 212. 
Bronson, G. W., 212. 
Deal, Charles H., 212. 
Gilliland's Sons, Francis-, 

212. 
Grime,' Henry C, 212. 
Herrick, Henry, & Co., 212. 



328 



Amsterdam, city of, miscellaneous manu- 
factures of : 

Inmaa Manufacturing Com- 
pany, 210, 212. 
Kellogg & Miller, 211. 
McElwain, W. & H. C, 212. 
Manufacturers' Paper Box 

Companv. 210. 
Overton & Van Wyck. 210. 
Peek, Lewis, & Co., 212. 
Perkins Foundry Company, 

212. 
SerToss& De Graff. 212. 
Shuler, D. W., & Son, 211. 
Shuler Manufacturing Com- 
pany, 211. 
Smeallie Brothers, il2. 
Tiffany, E., & Son, 212. 
municipal acts in relation to, 

18o. 
Odd Fellows, Independent Order 

of, in, 213. 
rise and growth of, 184. 
secret societies, miscellaneous, 

in, 215. 
sewerage system of, 191. 
supervisors of, 186. 
Union Free Schools of, 188. 
water supply of, 205. 
water works of, 190. 
Ander, Rev. E. E., 314. 
Andrews, R. M., 170. 
Anne, Queen, accession of, 36. 
Arkell & Smith, manufactory of, 260. 
Ashe, John F., 198. 
Atrocities of 1779, 90. 
Aubert, discoverer. 22. 
Auriesville, 285. 
Austin, Charles D., 182. 
Ayres. Alexander, 166. 

Douglas, 167. 
Bailey, James B., 194. 
Baldwin. Rev. Charles H., 200. 
Ball, Rev. Clarence, 237, 258. 
Bank, Amsterdam City ^National, 194. 
Amsterdam Savings, 194. 
Canajoharie National. 260. 
Farmer's, Amsterdam, 193. 
Farmers' and Mechanics', of Fort 

Plain, 240. 
First National of St. Johnsville, 315. 
Fort Plain, 239. 
Fultonville, National. 293. 
Manufacturers', Am.'tcrdam, 194. 
Merchants' National. Amsterdam, 194. 



Bank, Mohawk River, Fonda, 276. 

of Amsterdam, 193. 
Banking House of A. V. Morris. 194. 
Banta, J. L.. 193. 
Bar. present. 158. 

recollections of the early, 152. et seq. 
Barnes. C. G., 260. 
Barringer, James Alfred. 169. 
Baum, jr.. Rev. William M.. 257. 
Bayard, Edward, 153. 
Beakley. John Sloat, 166. 
Beattie, James A., 204. 
Becker, Charles J., 182. 
Beekman, J. G., 315. 
Belden, W. P., 197. 
Belding, Samuel, jr., 158. 
Benn, William J., 182. 
Biggam. William H., 165, 168. 
Biographv of Blood. Gardiner, 882. 

Borst, H. v., 443. 

Bragdon, Henry S., 387. 

Breedon, William, 406. 

Bronson, James H., 366. 

Brower. Henry T. E., 392. 

Buckbee, Israel I., 359. 

Bunn, Thomas, 372. 

Cassidy, David D.. 415. 

Corev, David P., 435. 

Dean. Luther L., 380. 

De Graff, Alfred, 379. 

Eighmy, John W., 358. 

Fonda, Henry A., 396. 

Hackney, Daniel P., (See Index to 
Family Sketches.) 

Howard, Ebenezer, 407. 

Ingersoll. George. 377. 

Inman. Horace, 438. 

Johnston, Albert J., 389. 

Johnston. William N., 388. 

Kellogg. Davton S.,418. 

Kellogg, Helen W., 418. 

Kellogg, John, 364. 

Kennedy, Thomas F., 442. 

Kline. William J.. 426. 

Loadwick, G. H., 433. 

Luther. Henrv. 391. 

Lvnk. M.. 426. 

M'cCowatt. Walter R., 393. 

ilcFarlan, John, 355. 

Morris, Abram V., 375. 

Pawlins, Henry, 406. 

Robb, William H., 357. 

Sanford Family, The, 427. 

Sanford, Stephen, 428. 

Sanford, John, 427. 



INDEX. 



Biography of Sanford. John, 430. 

Serviss, John G.. 3So. 

Shanahan, James, 410. 

Simpson, George C 395. 

Starin. John H., 350. 

Stewart, John Knox. 384. 

Van Buren. Cornelius, 361. 

Van Denbergh. Walter L., 390. 

Van Home, Joel C 354. 

Wemple. Edward. 399. 

Wendell! John D., 449. 

Westbrook. Zerah S., 368. 

White, Dr. Joseph N., 403. 

Tost, George. 444. 

Tund, C. C. 447. 

Tund, Joseph, 446. 

Tund. Theodore. 446. 
Blauvelt. Edward G.. 182. 
Blood. Gardiner, 188, 193. 200, 207, 208. 
biography of, 382. 
portrait of. facing 92. 

JohnD., 195. 

Robert, 191. 
Bloomer, Rev. J., 238. 
Borst, H. v., biography of, 443. 
portrait of, facing 154. 
Braddock. General Edward, arriTal of, 43. 

defeat of, 44. 
Bragdon, Henry S., biography of, 387. 

portrait of, facing 250. 
Brant and his maraudings, SO. 
Breedon. William, 191. 

biography of. 406. 
portrait of. facing 184. 
Bronk. Edmund F., 169. 
Bronson. James H., 188, 200. 
biography of, 366. 
portrait of, facing^212. 
Brooks, Peter. 154. 
Brower, WiUiam H., 265. 
Brower, Henry T. E., biography of, 392. 

portrait of, facing 316. 
Brown, Rev. E. H., 236. 
Brown, Rev. George W., 275. 
Brownel'.. Frank V., 169. 
Brown's Hollow, 343. 
Brumlev. X. S., 260. 
Brundage Rev. W. M., 201. 
Buckbee, Frank G., 165. 

Israel I., 166. 

biography of, 359. 
portrait of, facing 164. 
Buel, 247. 

Bullock, Willig, 259. 
Bundy's Corners. 343. 



Bunn, Thomas, biography of, 372. 

portrait of, facing 372. 
Bunn. T, Romeyn. 200. 
Burbeck, Joseph, 167. 
Burt, A. Marsliall, 170. 
Burtonville, 348. 
Butler, death of. 98. 
Butler's raid, 97. 

Cady, Daniel. 152. 

David, 193-196. 200, 298. 
Campaign of 1757, 47 et seq. 

1758, 49. 
Campaigns, three principal, of 1756, 46. 
Canajofaane, boundaries and topography 
of, 241. 
district. 18. 

early merchant.-; of. 245. 
early mills of, 244. 
early settlers of, 244. 
land grants in, 242. 
origin of name, 242. 
population ol, 250. 
schools of, 250. 
town officers of, 251. 
village, banks of, 259. 

early merchants of, 253. 
early settlers of, 251. 
hotels of. 255. 
incorporation of, 255. 
manufactures of, 260. 
press of, 258. 
schools of, 255. 
water supply of. 254. 
Carleton's raid. 94. 
Carmichael. Daniel. 210. 
Cartier. Jacques, explorer and colonizer, 22 
easier. A. P.. 170. 
Cassidy, David D.. 188. 
biography of, 415, 
portrait of, facing 414. 
Caughnawaga, 262. 

old stone church at, 268. 
Causes for the division of Montgomery 

county, 108. 
Cemeteries. Amsterdam, 197. 
Chaley, John. 265. 
Chamberlain. Benjamin, 153. 
Champlain, first hostile meeting of, with 
the Indians, 23. 
the real founder of French coloniza- 
tion, 23. 
valley, the, 39. 
Charleston, boundaries and topography 
of, 344. 



INDEX. 



Charleston, early settlers of, 346. 

land patents in, 344. 

population of, 350. 

schools of, 350. 

the Clark lands in, 347. 

Tillage, 349. 

Four Corners, 349. 
Chase, Cyrus B., 201. 
Child, Edward il., 170. 
Children's Home, Amsterdam, 195. 
Christman, John I., 190. 

Raymond, 194. 
Chuctenunda, Gas Light Company, 196. 

reservoir, 205. 
Church, Baptist, Flat Creek, 343. 

Baptist, Fort Plain, 237. 

Baptist, Rider's Corners, 350. 

Calvary Baptist, Amsterdam, 203. 

Christian, Charleston. 349. 

Christian. Randall, 342. 

Christian, of Rural Grove, 340. 

East Main Street Methodist Episco- 
pal, Amsterdam, 201. 

First Baptist. Amsterdam. 202. 

First Methodist Episcopal, Amster- 
dam, 201. 

First Reformed Dutch. Florida, 304. 

Free Will Baptist, Ames, 248. 

German Evangelical Lutheran, Trin- 
ity, Amsterdam, 204. 

German Methodist Episcopal. Am- 
sterdam. 202. 

Grace Christian, St. Johnsville, 314. 

Immanuel Presbyterian, Amsterdam, 
200. 

Lutheran, Fort Plain, 237. 

Lutheran, of Stone Arabia, .328. 

Methodist. Akin. 183. 

Methodijt, Fort Plain. 236. 

Methodist, Rockton, 181. 

Methodist Episcopal, Canajoharie, 2.58. 

Methodist Episcopal, Fonda, 275. 

Methodist Episcopal, at Fort Hunter, 
303. 

Methodist Episcopal, Fulton ville, 291. 

Methodist Episcopal, at Hagaman's 
Mills, 180. 

Methodist Episcopal, Minaville, 304. 

Methodist, Episcopal, Rural Grove, 
339. 

Methodist Episcopal, St. Johnsville. 
314. 

Methodist Episcopal, Tribes Hill, 278. 

of the Good Shepherd, Canajoharie, 
257. 



Church, Palatine Evangelical Lutheran, 
329. 

Presbyterian. Tribes Hill, 278. 
Protestant Episcopal. Fort Plain, 237. 
Reformed, Aunesville, 286. 
Reformed. Canajoharie, 256. 
Reformed of Cranesville, 179. 
Reformed, Currytown, 342. 
Reformed, Fonda, 273. 
Reformed of Fort Plain, 237. 
Reformed, Hagaman's Mills, 180. 
Reformed of Port Jackson. 204. 
Reformed. St. Johnsville, 313. 
Reformed. Sprakers, 341. 
Reformed, of Stone Arabia, 327. 
Reformed Dutch of Canajoharie. 227. 
Reformed Dutch, at Cranesville, 179. 
Reformed Dutch. Glen, 287. 
Reformed Protestant (Dutch) Fulton- 

vUle, 291. 
St. Ann's, Amsterdam, 200. 
St. Cecilia's Roman Catholic, Fonda, 

275. 
St. James Roman Catholic, Fort Plain, 

238. 
St. John's German Evangelical Luth- 
eran, Canajoharie, 257. 
St. Joseph's German Roman Catholic, 

Amsterdam. 203. 
St. Mark's Lutheran, Canajoharie, 256. 
St. Mary's Roman Catholic, Amster- 
dam, 203. 
St Patrick's Roman Catholic, St. 

Johnsville, 314. 
St Peter and St. Paul's. Canajoharie, 

258. 
Salem, of the Evangelical Association 

of America, Palatine, 330. 
Second Presbyterian, Amsterdam, 199. 
Trinity Reformed. Amsterdam, 204. 
True Dutch Reformed, Glen, 287. 
Union, St. Johnsville, 314. 
United Presbyterian, Florida, 305. 
Universalist, at Fordsbush. 228. 
Universalist, Fort Plain, 236. 
Lion Protestant Episconal, Fonda, 

274. 
Churches at Freysbush, 228. 

German Methodist and Union, Fort 

Hunter, 303. 
Methodist and Christian, Burtonville, 

349. 
Pastor Wieting's, in Minden, 228. 
City Hospital Aid Society, Amsterdam, 

195. 



INDEX. 



331 



Claims to territory, bases of three great, 

2i. 
Clark, Grovernor, at Fort Plain, 231. 

George. 194. 

James T., 182. 

John il., 205. 
Clinton, Governor, resignation of, 41. 

Liberal and Military Institute, 238. 
Clum, Franklin D.. 168. 
Clyde, Colonel, 223. 
Code of Procedure, 147. 
Coleman, Henry, 265. 
Colonies, Massachusetts' suggestion for 

union of the. 43. 
Colonists, appeals of the, to the ministry, 
43. 

deplorable condition of, after the Brit- 
ish and Indian outrages, 95. 
Colonization schemes of the French, 22. 
Columbus, discoyery by, 21. 
Committee of safety, letter of, to Sir John 
Johnson, 78. 

meetinsr of, 76. 
Conable, 0. F., 293. 
Congdon, Clark E., 171. 
Congregational Temple of Israel, Amster- 
dam, 205. 
Conoyer. Charles I., 165. 

Seely, 194. 
Cook, James H., 155. , 

Willet F., 259. 
Cooline, Miles, 191. 
Coons, Charles A., 279. 
Continental Congress, the, 73. 
Corey, David P., biography of, 435. 

portrait of, facing 148. 
Corlear, Arent, 53. 
Cornell, Francis O., 166. 
Cornplanter's visit to Fort Plain, 233. 
Counties formed from original territory of 

Tyron count}-, 103. 
Court, County,' 148. 

of Appeals, 145. 

of Chancery, 146. 

Special Sessions, 150. 

Supreme, 145. 

Surrogate's 149. 
Courts, early, 144. 

legislative and constitutional changes 
in, 147. 
Court-house, Fonda, 151. 
Cranesville. 178. 
Crane, T. H. Benton. 193, 194. 
Crounse, Lorenzo, 155. 
Crouse, David J., 182. 



Crovvn Point and Ticonderoga, 39. 

expedition against, under Sir Williaia 
Johnson, 44. 

results of the attack upon, 45. 
Cummings, John, 155. 
Cunningham, Henry, 153. 
Currytown. 341. 
Cushney Richard H., 1.58, 276. 

Darrow, John, 154. 
Dean, Luther L., 182, 193-195, 208. 
biography of, 380. 
portrait of, facing 182. 
De Baun, Cornelius W., 170. 

Rev. John A . 274. 
De Forest, A. A., 193, 194, 197, 208. 
De Frontenac's eflFort for peace, 33. 

foray of, against the Mohawks, 35, 
De Graff, Alfred, 293. 

biography of, 379. 
portrait of, facing 378. 

A. H., 191. 

E. E., 176. 

Nicholas J., 200. 
De la Barre's fruitless expedition, 33. 
De Lamater. William H., 171. 
De Lancey, Governor, 41. 
Delegates, convention of colonial, 41. 
Denraan, Rev. Mark A., 256. 
De Nonvilie and the Iroquois, 33. 
De Roberval and his commission, 22. 
De Tracy's chastisement of the Mohawks, 

32. 
Devenburg, Elias H., 200. 
Diefendorf, Harvev C, 230. 

John D , 234,' 
Dodds, Cornelius. 17.5. 
Dodge. William I, 153. 
Dolan, Rev. John W., 276. 
Donnan. Nathan W., 195. 

William A., 194. 
Doxtader. Mark, 26.5. 
Duke of York, grant to, 25. 

peculiarity of the grant to, 55. 
Dunckel, W.\lter Adams. 1 72. 
Dunlap. David S., 194. 

W. B.. 194. 
Dunn, Andrew, 240. 
Duplang, Rev. Andrew, 203. 
Durham boats, 137. 
Dutch claim to territory, 25. 

domination, end of, 2.5. 

peaceful relations between the Indian." 
and the, 25. 

West India Company, 24. 



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334 



DTDKX. 



Hrland, Mrs. T. G., 195. 

Imperial Packing Con piCT. 20. 
Indian depredations of 177S, 90. 
invasions, pettr. in 1778,88. 
Indians and Chimplain, the. 23. 

and Datch, peaceful relatioDs be- 
tween, 25. 
English view of the nse of the, S2. 
French efforts to christianize the. 29. 
policT of the colonists toward the. 81. 
tneatr with, in 1754. 41. 
two hostile nations of. 27. 
Inpersoll, George, biography of, 377. 

ix)rtrait of. facing 264. 
Insraham. George H.. 16S. 
Inland Lock and Xavieation Company, 

137. 
Inman, Horace, biography of, 43S. 

portrait ot facing 204. 
Iroqaois and French, causes which led to 
the contention between. 31. 
peace between. 36. 
characteristics of the. 2S. 
ConfederacT, the. 26 et seq. 

forerunner of the downfall of the. 
30. 
French e5brts to win the. 31. 
inctirsions upon French settlers. 34. 
in the war of 1 744-4S, 4ii. 
*ne for peace, 32. 

Jadaon, B. Rash. 171. 
John C, 170. 
SamneL 29S. 
Jenkins, Rer. R. K, ISl. 
Johnson. Gut, and Sampson Sammons, 75. 
Gnv. flight of. 77. 
R. G,. 16?. 
Johnson, Sir John, animosity of. shown at 
Whig masf meetii^g. 75 
attempt ot'to recover family pa- 
pers, 90. 
defines his sentiments, 7S. 
flight ot to Canada. 79. 
fortifies Johnson H.-ill. 79. 
in Amsterdam, 174. 
raid by. 91. 
schemes of, 74. 
second raid, 95. 

surprise of, at action of Conti- 
nental Congress, 75. 
surrenders himself a prisoner, 79. 
Sir WiUiam, 41. 



JohnstHi, Sr William, and the Palatinates, 
55. 

anxiety of, over the difficulties 
between the colonies and Great 
Briiam. 6a 
appomted colonei 60. 
appointment ot as superintend- 
ent of Indian aSairs. 60. 
as a miiitaxy leader. 61. 
at Tioonderaga. 50. 
constructs Johnson Hall. 64. 
efforts ol to educate and cirilise 

the Indians. 61. 
family of, 59. 

GoTcmor Shirley's iealousy ot 44 
grants to, by the Indians, 65. 
illness ot 4S. 

in the campaign of 1757, 47. 
in the campaign of 1759. 63. 
lands owned br. in Amsterdam, 

174. 
made a baronet, 46. 
part ot in the formation of the 

new counties. 6S. 
personal aSairs ot 67. 
popularity otwith the Indians,61. 
remarkable influence of, 65. 
rewarded for his services at 

<>own Point. 62. 
St. John's church built by, 67. 
sickness and death ot 69. 
visited bv Governor Tryon, 69. 
will ot 70. 
Johnsons, alarm of the, 76. 
Johnston, Albert J., biography ot 3S9. 
William y.. 198. 

biography ot 3SS. 
portrait ot facing 114. 
Johnstown, the fight at. 97. 
Jodieial system of Xew York Siate, 143. 

Kane brothers, the, 246. 
Eavanangfa. John, 194. 
Kayaderosseras j^atent, disconleni caused 

by the granting ot 66. 
Keegan, William E. 165. 
Kellogg. Dayton S.. biography ot 41S. 
portrait ot betwe^-n 418— 419, 
Helen W.. biography ot 41S. 

portrait of. between 418-419. 
John, 188. 191, 193, 196. 197, 20a. 
biography ot 364. 
portrait of, facang 200. 
La wren, 195. 



INDEX. 



335 



biography of, ■^*- 

portrait of, facing 44- 
Kirsch. Rev. J^A.^..2o.. 
Kline. Adam W..l|120D.-0,. 

Andrew \\ ., i»»- 
Harlan P.. 207. 
Oliver S., 200. 
Ratbi Henry, 20o. 
Seward, 19S. 
William, 176. 
WUl.amJ..l!^S198^ 
biography of, 42b. 
portrait of. facing 42b. 
Klock, A. V 169. 
Charles M., 16o. 
Colonel Jacob. 309. 
Georse and Christian, 30 1. 
Kniskern." John """•• 1 ' 2- 
Konrad. Rev. Otto C., 204. 
Kru" Theodore, 23.. 
ijle. Rev. J. R., 204. 

La Grange, Rev Joseph H., 304. 
Land grants, earliest, o6.__ 
to individuals, 0(. 
Leach, Horace M. 165. 
Lemrou, W. H.. 1«0^ 

Lewis. &eo'"?^^-,\:i- 
Svlvester D.. 166. 
Lichtenheim, Louis. 210. 
Liddle. John. 210. 
Thomas. 208. 
William A.. 210. 
Lingenfelter, J. 0. 199. 

Mrs. Marion. 19o. 
Lipe. Johannes. 233 
Loadwick, George H., 19^. 
biography ot, m. 
portrait of, facing 434. 
Lobdell, Daniel G.. 157. 
Logan, John. 171. 

Lo?d de Courcelles's expedition. 32. 
Loucks. Henry. 156. 
Luther, Henry, biography of. 391. 

portrait of, facing d9U. 
Lyker. Aimer A., 168. 
Lykers Corners, 343. 
Lynk, Martin, 197. 

biography of, 42b. 
portrait of, facing 427. 
Lyman. General. 45. 
Lyon, Isaac E,. 182. 



McAvenue. O.F., 1.0 
McClearv. William, 182. 
McClement, J H., 19-. 
McClumpha George^ 190. 19,. 

McCowatt, Walter R 208 
biogr."iphv ot, d»o. 

portrait of, facing 100. 
McCuUum, Rev. E. A 237. 
McDonnell, Edward, 209. 

John, 206. 
McElwaine, Hoel S., 20o. 
McFarlan, John, 20. 

biography oi, ooo. 

portrait of, facing 84. 

Robert, 226. 
Machin. Captain Thomas 3,3^ 

Machold. Bernard P.. l^^- '■"■ 
Mclncrow. Rev. John P., -03. 
Mclntyre. Donald. 103 
McMartin. Dr. Daniel M., 16., 19b. 
McXallv, Thomas. 198. 

McTean. Charles, lo3. 

Madden, Dennis. 191- 

Mallette, George P.. 166. 

Mansfield, Thomas, 194, 201. 

Mapletown, 249. 

Markell, John. 219. 
J. H., 315. 

Marsh. S. D., 197. 

Marshville. 249. . v <. -1=18 

Masonic societies at Canajoharie,_o8, 

in FultonviUe, 292. 
of Fort Plain. 240. _ 
in St. Johnsville, 31o. 
Matthewson. Angell B.. 198. 

Walter B.. 198. 
Maxwell. John. 181, 207. 
S:SrIS^i^e ;S^Hng of the inhab- 
itants of Mohawk vallev, 9b. 
Medical science, general view of, 160. 
Societv. Amsterdam, 196. 
Montgomery, 162. 
MiUtia of the Mohawk valley durmg the 
■^ar of 1812. 107. . 

oreanization of, at the beginning of 
the Revolution, 82. 

S^J^efi. 193-196, 200. 
JamesC, 194, 205, 20.. 
J. J.. 165. 
Mills, Anchor Knitting, 181. 
A. V. Morris & Son s, 183. 
Eagle Knitting, 209. 



336 



INDEX. 



Mills, Mohawk, 182. 

Park Knitting, 182. 

Probity, 182. 

Progress Hosiery, 182. 

Red Star Knitting, 182. 

Rural Hosiery, 183. 

Star Hosiery, 181. 
Minaville, 304. 

Minden, boundaries and topography of, 
216. 

Brant and Johnson's raid in, 220. 

churches of, 227 et seq. 

early merchants of, 227. 

first church in, 227. 

forts in, 220. 

indications of pre-Indian occupation 
in, 216. 

land patents of, 217. 

organization of, 229. 

patriots of, 224. 

settlement of, 217. 

statistics of, 231. 

sufferings of early settlers of, 219. 

town ofBcers of, 230. 
Miscellaneous enlistments in the war of 

the Rebellion, 136. 
Missionaries at Fort Hunter, 302. 

to the Indians, 29. 
Mississippi valley, an object of the contest 

of 1744-48, 40. 
Mitchell, Thomas B., 155. 
Mohawk, area of, 269. 

boundaries, territory and topography 
of, 261. 

district, 19. 

early history of, 262. 

Indian raid in, 266. 

land grants in, 261. 

river, the, as a means of communica- 
tion, 137. 

the scene of historic events, 265. 

town officers of, 269. 

two important events leading to the 
prosperity of, 269. 

valley, disastrous invasion of in 1757, 
48. 

valley during the war of 1812, 106. 

valley, settlement of. 53. 

Valley Silk Fabric Company, 260. 

valley, the, at the close of the Revo- 
lution, 99. 
Montcalm, brilliant activity of, 51. 

victorious career of, 48. 

siege of Fort William Henry by, 47. 



Mongomery civil list, 109 et seq. 

County Agricultural Society, 142. 
before the division, 108. 
boundaries of, 19. 
geology of, 20. 
in the Rebellion, 115. 
Medical Society, 162. 
present bar of, 158. 
territorial reductions of, 18. 
territory included in, at forma- 
tion, 18. 
' topography of, 19. 
water courses of, 20. 
name of Tryon county changed 
to, 17. 
Moak, Austin S., 170. 
Moorehead. J. Francis, 170. 
Morphy, Thomas, 194, 200. 
Morrell, Abraham. 154. 
Morris, Abram V., 193, 194. 
biography of, 375. 
portrait of. facing 108. 
A. v., & Sons, 183. 
Frank, 188. 
Francis, 195. 

Governeur, suggestion of, concerning 
Brie canal, 138. 
Mosher, Stafford, 240. 
Mosscrop, Thomas D., 197. 
Myer, G. L., 170. 

Navigation, early, 137. 
Neff, Andrew, 198 
Nelson, Oscar F., 194, 207. 
NeUis, Charles, 168. 

Christopher, 307. 
Nesbet, Charles S., 201. 
New Englanders in the Mohawk valley, 

104. 
New Netherlands, founding of, 24. 
Newspapers of Amsterdam, 197, 

Canajoharie, 258. 

Fonda, 276. 

Fort Plain, 238. 

Fultonville, 282. 

St. Johnsville, 315. 
Nichols, Charles W.. 171. 
Noonan, Josiah, 197. 

O'Brien, John Charles, 172. 
O'Connor, George jr., 239. 
Oothout brothers, the, 226. 
Oriskany, roster of forces at, 85 et seq. 
the battle of, 83 et seq. 



INDEX. 



33r 



Osteyee, Rev. M. J., 183, 278. 
Ostrander, Henry B., 277. 
Overton, Robert H., 210. 
Ozmun, I. Davis, 170. 

Palatine, boundaries and topography of, 
317. 

district, 19. 

early settlers of, 318. 

first settlement north of the Mohawk 
made in, 318. 

influx of Palatinates in, 320. 

land patents in, 318. 

organization of, 330. 

population of, 332. 

town officers of, 331. 
Palatinate families, settlers of Palatine, 

321. 
Palatinates, the, 53 et seq. 
Palmer, Philip D., 167. 
Pangburn, Adelbert, 209. 
Paris, Daniel, 153. 

Isaac, 218, 225, 232. 325. 

treaty of, 52. 
Parr, John, 165. 
Parsons, William W. D., 165. 
Patchen, Daniel H., 167. 
Patriotism of the colonists, 74. 
Patriots, roster of, at Oriskany, 85. 
Patten, Rev. J. G., 202. 
Pawling, Henry, 181. 

biography of, 406. 
portrait of. facing 180. 

William M., 181. 
Peace of Breda, 32. 
Pearse, Rev. R. A., 304. 
Peck, Mrs. Louis, 195. 
Peddie, William J., 168. 
Peek, Lorenzo V., 293. 
Pension, the first, 88. 
Perry, Rev. E. A., 237. 
Pettit Manufacturing Company, 260. 

Thomas J., 167. 
Pierce, William R., 171. 
Port Jack.son, 301. 
Portrait of Blood, Gardiner, facing 92. 

Borst, H. v., facing 154. 

Bragdon, H. S., facmg 250. 

Breedon, Wdliam, facing 184. 

Bronson, James H., facing 212. 

Brower, Henry T. E., facing 316. 

Buckbee, Israel I , facing 164. 

Bunn, Thomas, facing 372. 

Cassidy, David D., facing 414. 

Corey, David P., facing 148. 



Portrait of Dean, Luther L., facing 182. 

De Graff, Alfred, facing 378. 

Eighmy, John W., facing 158. 

Fonda, Henry A., facing 270. 

Hackney, David P. (see Index to 
Family Sketches.) 

Howard, Ebenezer, facing 408. 

Ingersoll, George, facing 264. 

Inman, Horace, facing 204. 

Johnston, William N., facing 114. 

Kellogg, Dayton S., between 418-419. 

Kellogg, Helen W., between 418-419. 

Kellogg, John, facmg 200. 

Kennedy, Thomas F., facing 442. 

Kline, William J., facing 426. 

Loadwick. Geo. H., facing 434. 

Luther, Henry, facing 390. 

Lynk, Martm, facing 427. 

McCowatt, Walter R., facing 100. 

McFarlan, John, facmg 84. 

Morris, Abram V., facing 108. 

Pawling, Henry, facing 180. 

Robb, William H., facing 166. 

Sanford, John, facing 52. 

Sanford, Hon. John, facing 68. 

Sanford, Stephen, facing 60. 

Serviss, John G., facing 186. 

Shanahan, James, facing 76. 

Simpson, George C, facing 394. 

Starm, John H., facing 350. 

Van Buren, Cornelius, facing 196. "^t 

Van Denbergh, Walter L., facing 142. 

Van Home, Joel C, facing 280. 

Wemple, Edward, facing 44. 

Wendell, John D., facing 216. 

Westbrook, Zerah S., facing 152. 

White, Joseph N., facing 160. 

Yost, George, facing 228. 

Yund, Charles C, between 446-447. 

Yuna, Theodore J., between 446-447. 
Post, Henry W., 171. 
Potter, Darwin, 166. 
Powers, three, occupants of the territory 

of New York, 26. 
Press of Amsterdam, the, 97. 

Canajoharie, the, 258. 

Fonda, the, 276. 

Fort Plain, the, 238. 

Fultonville, the, 292. 

St. Johnsville, the, 315. 
Prosperity of Mohawk valley after the 

Revolution, 104 
Public buildings, 109. 
Putman, Alonzo. 167. 

Howard. 191. 



338 



ES'DEX. 



Pumam. Cornelias. 156. 
Lodowick. 265. 
Ticior. 175. 

Qneen Anne"s chapel 296. 302. 
Qniri, Edward A.. 195. 

Railroad CompanT. the Fonda. Johnstown 
and Gloversville. 140. 

Company, the Johnstown. 140. 

Mohawk and Hudson, 139. 
Bailroads, consolidation of. 140. 

projected. 140. 
Randall 342. 

Phineas. 15«i. 
Rangers, 82. 
Regunent. tie First. Leht Artillery. 132. 

The FortT-tb:r<i. 117. 

the Fourteenth. Heary ArtillerT. 135. 

the One Hundred and' Fifteenth 119 
et seq. 

the One Hundred and Fiftv-third. 127. 

the "Sixteenth. Hearr Artillerr. 135. 

the Thirteenth, Heavy Artillery. 134. 

the Thirty-second. 1 16. 
Resistralion of phTsicians, 164. 
Refd, WiUiam. 196. 

first school teacher in Amsterdam. 
187. 

W. Max, 193, 195, 201. 
Revolution, beginning of the, 81. 

premonitions of the, 72. 
Remolds. Marcus T.. 157. 

■ Philip. 197. 
Rhodes. Isaac, 192. 
Richmond. A. C, 260. 
Riffgs. John T., 166. IK. 
Rinke. John L C. 168. 
Rivalry between the French and Eoelish. 

37. 
Rivers and streams of Montgomery 

countv, 20. 
Robb, Dr. William H., 166. 190, 196. 
biography of. 357. 
portrait of. facing 166. 
Rockton, 181. 

miscellaneous manufacturers of. 183. 
Rogers. Rev. Robert. 305. 
Root Garrett L.. 15S. 

Johannes. 244. 

John. 252. 
Root boundaries and topography of. 332. 

daring the early wars, 336. 

first settlement of. 335. 

land grants in. -335. 



Root, natural featoree of, 333. 

schools ot 338. 

town offices of. 337. 
Roseboom brothers, the, 253. 
RoUson. Eleazer E^ 16& 

Elbert T.. 165. 
Rural Grove. 339. 
Ryland, WiUiam, 201. 
Ryswick. treaty of. 35. 

conflicting daims under the. 38. 

Sacia, David F.. 158. 254. 
St. George, Louis Von. 167. 
St. Johosville boundaries and topography 
0^306. 

incideiits of the early wars in, 308. 
organization of, 310. 
population ol 311. 
[wess of, the, 315. 
settlement and settlers ot 307. 
statistics of. 307. 
town officers of, 311. 
village ot Board of trade ot 316. 
early days of, 312. 
incorporation ot 313. 
manufactures of. 313. 
origin of name of. 312. 
Sl Mary's CathoUc Institute, 189. 
Saltsman, Ward Beecber. 171. 
Sammons. Sampson. 266. 

and Guy Johnson, 75. 
Sanford Family, The. biographies of, 427. 
John, 205. 206. 

biography of. 427. 
portrait ot facing 62. 
Hon. John, biography of. 430. 

portrait of. facics 68. 
Stephen, 188, 193-196. 205. 
biography of. 428. 
portrait ot facing 60. 
Sangree. Rev. H. H.. 3427 
Sawyer. Rev. Lester J_ 200. 
Schraitz. Rev. Wjl];am. 291. 
Schoharie creek, first bridge over the. 298. 
Schuyler, Hiram, 193. 
James H.. 207. 
John and Peter. 34. 
Peter, pursuit of De Frontenac bv. 35. 
Philip. 127. 
Scotch Bush. 304. 
tenantrv. 100. 
Seeher. Wilfiam 218, 225. 
Serviss. Prot J. G.. 187. 191. 194. 195. 200. 
biography of. 385. 
portrait ot facing 186. 



INDEX. 



33» 



Settlements by the Palatinates, 54. 
Shanahan, James, biography of, 410. 

portrait of. facing 76. 
Shaper, John H.. 171. 
Sharpley, Joshua. liOO. 
Shaw, Rev. \V. H.. 343. 
Sheldon, Dr. Alexander. 289. 
Slielp, D. B., 200. 

Shepard, Daniel, early teacher in Amster- 
dam, 1S7. 
Shiblev, James, 165. 
Shuler, Davis \V., 1S8, 194, 196, 205. 

Ireorsre, 175. 

Isaac\\, 211. 

Mrs. D. W.. 195. 
Shumway, H. E, 170. 
Simons, Frank E., 166. 
Simmons. Abram B., 171. 
Simpson, George C. biography of, 395. 

portrait of. facing 394. 
Sisum, Rev. G. W., 303. 
Small. Dan, 167. 
Smeallie, J. A.. 165. 

WiUiam G.. 169. 
Smith, Abram D.. 292. 

Andrew P.. 16S. 

Arthur, V. H.. 167. 

Franklin B., 169. 

George, 155. 

George 0.. 198. 

Joseph, 315. 

J. Leslie, 169. 
Snell. James R., 190, 197. 

J'ohn B.. 315. 
Snyder, James D.. 167. 

Morgan, 166. 

W. P.. 209. 
Somers, Melancton, 168. 
Son, William H.. 192. 
Soule, Isaac. 234. 
Spatt, George, 194. 
Sprague, Frank J., 197. 

Horace E.. .school of, 187. 

Rev. David, 201. 
Spraker, Daniel, 276. 
Sprakers. 340. 
Sprout Brook, 2.50. 
Staflord. Oscar J.. 165. 
Stairs. John W. and Austin, 182. 
Stanley. Thomas S.. 200. 
Starin"lndustrial School, 279, 293. 
Starin, John 11., 293. 

biography of, 350. 
portrait of, facing 350. 

Nicholas, 288. 



Steadman, Augusta Alice, 172. 
Stebbins, William H., 194. 
Stacker, Rev. Carl, 202. 
Stewart, John K., 193, 195, 196, 207. 

biography of, 384. 
Stewart, William,'2IO. 
Stoddard, Rev. Frank P., 203. 
Stoller, Michael, 265. 
Stone Arabia district, 19. 
" Stoue Heap," the, in Charleston, 345. 
Storrie, Mrs. H. C. 195. 
Stover, CharWs, 167, 196. 

George B., 208. 

Martin L.. 188, 193, 194. 
Stieeter, Horace S., 167. 
Strong, Le Grand S., 201. 

Mrs. Le Grand, 195. 
Sugden. James T., 191. 193, 208. 
SuUs, Peter L., 165. 
Sutton, Richard W., 197. 
Sweatman. Newton F., 168. 
Sweet Refrigerator Company, 260. 

Taylor, Dallas M., 165, 169. 

William J., 190, 193. 
Tea, the dutv on, 72. 
Tefft, Mrs. Vv. E., 195. 

WilberE., 194. 
Tenantry, characteristics of the Tryon 

county, 100. 
Territory, basis of three great claims tc 24. 

of New York held by three powers,26. 
Teyst. Carl. 209. 
Thatcher. George A., 194. 
Thoma.s Rt-v. John A.. 341. 
Thompson, Burton. 167. 
Thorn, Rev. C. C, 340. 
Thyne, Rev. Joseph, 287. 
Ticonderoga. Abeicrombie's expedition- 
against, 50. 

and Crown Point, 39. 
Tiffany, Isaac. 156, 289. 
Timmerman Charles F. 169. 

David and Conrad, 312. 
Tory effrontry. 99. 
Towns, territorial formation of, 19. 
Trapnell, Mrs. M H., 196. 
Treaties with the Indians, doubtful value- 

of, 38. 
Tribes Hill, 277. 
Tryon, A. Walter, 171. 

county, causes of the division of, 71. 
civil government of, 102. 
division of, 102. 
first court officers of, 151. 



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INDEX. 



Carson, Lester, 26. 
Carson, Silas, 205. 
Gary, Alfred, 173. 
Casler Family, The, 25. 
Casler, George B., 172. 
Casler. John, 25. 
Cassidy, David D., 19. 
Chapman. Reuben, 18. 
Charleswonh Family, The, 18 
Chase, Dewitt Clinton. 29. 
Chase. Mrs. Lucretia, 27. 
Chawgo, Jacob, 314 
Chrisman, Charles C. 246. 
Christman. George H., 214. 
Christman, Morris, 29. 
Christman, Raymond, 126. 
Christman, Uriah, 257. 
Clapper. Peter S., 28. 
Clark, Auffustus, 15. 
Clark, James N.. 259. 
Clark, Joseph, 267. 
Clark. Walter S., 15. 
Clark, William. 24. 
Clark, WiOiam, 270. 
Clereland, Ferrand H., 16. 
Clizbe. Marcus W., 16. 
Clizbee, Samuel J., 247. 
Clute, Richard. 29. 
Cole, Jacob, 17. 
Collins, Charles E., 18. 
Collins, Ira, 306. 
Collins, Japhet, 270. 
Colhns, Peter J., 251. 
Collins, Stephen, 17. 
Collins. Tunis V., 272. 
Cook, George. 223. 
Cook, Mason. 2.50. 
Cooling. Miles, 15. 
Coolman. Peter W., 28. 
Conlon, Andrew B., 255. 
Conover, Seely, 14. 
Countryman, Julius Edgar, 27. 
Countryman, Milton, 27. 
Crane, Frank E., 173. 
Crane, T. H. Benton. 305. 
Cranker, John, 220. 
Crause, Leonard I., 30. 
Cronkhite. William, 2?". 
Crosbv, Oliver. 304. 
Cross," Walter B., 26. 
Cross, WiUiam E.. 15. 
Crough. Timothv. 283. 
Crouse Family, The, 23. 
Dahlen, Daniel, 174. 
Davis, George L., 44. 



Davis, Gordon J., 33. 

Davis, William H., 41. 

Deal, John H.. 256. 

Dean, Frank S.. 3G. 

De Baun, Cornelius W., M. D.. 45. 

De Baun. Rev. John A., 44. 

De Graff, Alonzo H.. 30. 

De Graff, Garrett H., 216. 

De Graff. Gilbert C. 36. 

De Graff. Isaac J., 202. 

De Graff, Jeremiah H.. 201. 

De Graff, John D., 258. 

De Graff. John G., 261. 

De Graff. John H., 34. 

De Graff. J. Teller. 33. 

De Graff, Nicholas L, 31. 

De Grafl', Nicholas J., 35. 

De Graff, Oscar, 36. 

De Graff, William. 260. 

De La Mater, Dr. William, 281. 

Dersch. Conrad. 251. 

Devendorf, Dewitt A., 173. 

Devendorf, Dr. Henry A., 37. 

Devendorf Family, The, 40. 

Devoe. Daniel. 43. 

Devoe, Daniel Isaac, 40. 

De Wandelaer, James G., 45. 

Dewey, Amos, 42. 

Dewev, James Elias, 39. 

De Wolfe. Charles, 257. 

Dickson, John W., 31. 

Diefendorf, James A., 41, 

Diefendorl Lucius, 290. 

Diefendorf. Philip J.. 298. 

Diefendorf. Warner W., 46. 

Diefendorf. Willis Eugene, 38. 

Diefendorf, Yates, 173. 

Dievendorf. Charles. 230. 

Dievendorf. Henry A.. 47. 

Dievendorf. Jacob, 46. 

Dillenback Family, The, 39. 

Dillenback. John, 218. 

Dillenbeck. Lvsander. 305. 

Dillenbeck, Yates, 288. 

Dockstader, Albert T., 45. 

Dockstader. Henry. 43. 

Dockstader. John F., 273. 

Dockstader, William. 228. 

Dolan. Rev. John W., 273. 

Don, William E., 315. 

Dorn, John A.. 213. 

Dowsland, James Ralph, 35. 

Dosstater. Jacob J.. 43. 

Duell, Seneca P.. 32. 

Dunckel, Dr. Walter Adams, 39. 



INDEX. 



343 



Dunlap, Barlow, W., 35. 
Dunn, Andrew, 38. 
Dwver, John P., 33. 
Dygert, George, S., 238. 
Dygert. James W.. 283. 
Easterbrook, William P., 311. 
Eaverson, Adam. 319. 
Ecker, Daniel W.. 250. 
Edick, John, 236. 
Edwards. Charles Clement. 48. 
Edwards, Edward, 241. 
Edwards. Frank. 175. 
Edwards. James Keller. 49.. 
Edwards. J. S. Glen, 49. 
Egleston. Ervin. J., 229. 
Ehle, Abram. 175. 
Ehle, Henry. E., 174. 
Eldredge, Henrv Meyer, 49. 
Elithorp. Elias J., 48. 
Elwood Family, The, 47. 
Empie, Clark.'221. 
Enders Family. The. 307. 
England, Morgan. 50. 
Englehardt, Frederick, 31] 
Everson, Adam. A.. 276. 
Fagan, William T.. 50. 
FaTling, Abram, 225. 
Failing, Daniel, 314. 
Failing Family. The, 52. 
Failing, Henrv, 176. 
Failing, Jacob H., 264. 
Failing. Robert C. 230. 
Fairbanks, Dr. James R., 60. 
Fake, Abram, 55. 
Farmer, Samuel J., 261. 
Farmer, Thomas J., 177. 
Faulknor, Benjamin A., 60. 
Faulknor. Jay H., 59. 
Ferguson, John, 176. 
Filton, Charles H., 249. 
Finehout, Edgar D., 175. 
Fish. Leonard Frothingham, 53 
Fisher. Frederick. 177. 
Fitzgerald, Timothy, 51. 
Flanders. Martin. 317. 
Flansburg. Albertus B., 51. 
Flint. Daniel, 286. 
Flovd, Dwight E., 55. 
Folmsbee, Hartley, 312. 
Folmsbee. Peter, 51. 
Fonda, Adam H., 54. 
Fonda. Douw, 277. 
Fonda, Douw, 299. 
Foster. Alonzo. B., M. D.. C. M.. 
Fowler, Mrs. Sarah A., 50. 



Fox, Christopher C, 54. 

Fox. George H., 306. 

Fox. Ira, 51. 

Fox, Mathew, 53. 

Fox, Oliver, 296. 

Fox, Richard, 54. 

Francisco, Albert, 249. 

Fraser. John T.. 52. 

Frazer, Dr. Leonard A., ou 

Freday, Ervin W., 290. 

Fuller, Augustus. 54. 

Fuller. Leslie, 282. 

Gage & Company, A. P., 289. 

Galbraith, Frank F., 241. 

Gardenier, Barney, 242. 

Gardenier, Lorenzo, 62. 

Gardiner. E. Watson, 56. 

Gardiner, James B.. 56. 

Garlock, Adam H.. 298. 

Garlock. De Forest. 58. 

Garlock! Elijah. 178. 

Garlock, Euclid, 178. 

Garlock, Michael, 308. 

Garlock, Nathan 59. 

Garlock. William, 58. 

Genter, James, 57. 

George, Augustus L., 59. 

Getman. George. 208. 

Getnian, William F., 60. 

Gilbert, Charles N., 206. 

Gilliland. Francis, 303. 

Godwin, John D., 310. 

Gordon, Winr.e, 178. 

Gove, George J., 61. 

Gramps. Harvev. 61. 

Grant, Donald. 268.; 

Grant, John P.. 57. 

Gray, Charles S., 218. 

Gray. John J.. 56. 

Gregory. E. Sanford, 57.' 

Greeley, William. 178. 

Grieme, Henry G., 56. 

Griffin. William, 278. 

GrofiF, Benjamin, 209. 

Grofl". Fayette. 210. 

Groft', Hamilton. 60. 

Hackney. David G.. portrait of, facing 66. 

Hackney Family. The, 6G. 

Hagaraan. Francis. 64. 

Hagaman. Hannah. 63. 

Hagaman. J. Morgan, 62. 

Haggart, Georee S.. 243. 

HaVg, Walter R.. 66. 

Hall. George W., 239. 

Halligan, James, 282. 



344 



INDEX 



Hammond, J. llulford, 295. 
Hammond Seneca. 25". 
Hammond, Worden, 209. 
Hand. Edward, jr., 255. 
Haad. Edward J.. 302. 
Haody, ErTin A., 316. 
Eannon, Greorge R. 63. 
Hanson, Daniel N., 277. 
Han.son, Ira, 260. 
Hanson, Mrs. Agnes, 263. 
narrower, Lewis, 271. 
Hartley Family, The. 211. 
Harvey, John F., 256. 
Harvey, Thomas, 64. 
Haslet, William Alanson, 67. 
Hatter, William, 294. 
Hazelton, ilajor John F., 70. 
Hees, Johannes, 71. 
Hees, J. LedUe, 68. 
Herrick, Denison, 281. 
Herrick, George, 63. 
Herrick, Greorge. I., 273. 
Hefnck, Lewis H.. 65. 
Herrick, Sarah A., 62. 
Hewitt, Daniel C, 217. 
Hewitt, Margaret, 324. 
HiU, Arthur, 68. 
Hill. Charles G., 68. 
HiU, Squire, 180. 
Hillegas, David, 320. 
Hodge, Augustus M.. 69. 
Hodge, Squire H., 28& 
Hoffinan, Julius. 302. 
Hoflfinan, Silas L, 207. 
Hogg, James. 324. 
Horn, Fridolin, 215. 
Horn, Jacob J., 71. 
Houck, Jacob, 66. 
Houpt, Ferdinand J., 68. 
House, William C, 179. 
Hon-ard, Charles L., 215. 
Howe, Mrs. Julia A., 65. 
Hubbs, Charles, 69. 
Hubbs, Hiram, 63. 
-Hubbs, John, 65. 
Hudson, Mrs. Emma, 240. 
Hudson, William, 67. 
Hugo. John Henry, 65. 
Hurst, Henry, 271. 
Huston, Hiram L., 70. 
Hyland, Dr. Thomas G.. 30? 
Ingersoll, Alexander, 180. 
Ireland. Jav, 266. 
Iceland, Thomas S., 266. 
Jackson, John Charles, 73. 



Jenks, Henry G., 312. 

Jenkins, George W., 73. 

Johnson, Eleazer W., sr., 72. 

Johnson, Mrs. Angelica, 266. 

Johnson, Mrs. T. P.. 272. 

Johnson, Richard G.. M. D., 72. 

Johnson, William H., 72. 

Johnston, William N., 181. 

Jones. Augustus, ISO. 

Jones Brothers, Frederick and Augustus 

180. 
Jones. Frederick, ISO. 
Jones. George, 74. 
Jones, James V., 73. 
Kaufman, William H., 77. 
Kavanaugh, John, 182. 
Kearns, Thomas J., 279. 
Kellogg, Dayton Smith, 78. 
Kellogg, Rebecca L, 182. 
Kelly, George, 80. 
Kennedy. James, 256. 
Kessler Family, The, 74. 
Kibbie, Greorge, 311. 
Kibbie, Mrs. Annie, 299. 
Kimbijl, Prot Julius W., 75. 
Kinsley, Collins A., 77. 
Kvrby, Valentine, 291. 
Kline, Adam W., 76. 
Klme. Charles, 247. 
Kline. Cornelius 0., 258. 
Kline, Greorge J,, 78. 
Kline, James W.. 75. 
Kline, OUver S,. 74. 
Klinkhart. Amos, 294. 
Klmkhart, Henry W., 295. 
Klinkhart. John. SO. 
Klock, Dr. Arie V., 283. 
Klock. Zebina R.. 316. 
Kneeskern, John H., 321. 
Kocher, Mrs. Eliza J., 287. 
Kocher, Peter. 294. 
Kurlbaum, Ernest, 247. 
Kyle. Rev. Joshua R., 77. 
Lambert. Emory E., 84. 
Lambert Family. The, S3. 
Larrabee, John E., 307. 
Larrabee, Louis. 300. 
Lasher, Arnold V., 84. 
Lasher Brothers, The, 291. 
Lasher, Luke W., 292j 
Liisher, Peter, 274. * 
Lefler, Martin, 277. 
Leip, John. 220. 
Lentz, Conrad, 183. 
Leonardson, John D., 229. 



INDEX. 



345 



Lepper, Charles W., 273. 
Lepper, Jacob^ 95. 
Lester, James, 82. 
Lewis, Peter J., 80. 
Lewis, Sylvester D., 81. 
Liddle, Thomas, 85. 
Lighthall Family, The, 83. 
Liodsay, Albert E., 86. 
Lindsay. Richard, 2i". 
Lindsay. William. 81. 
LiQgenfelter, David, 259. 
Lipe, Adam, 86. 
Lipe, Ephraim, 171. 
Lipe Family, The, 231. 
Lipe. Jacob I.. 231. 
Lipe, Seeber, 182. 
Lohmao, Nicholas, 86. 
Lohmeyer, Henry. 81. 
Lottridge, Cornelius, 85. 
Lottridge. William. 276. 
Loucks, Conrad K., 183. 
Lounsbury, Louis, 230. 
Luke, Mrs. Sarah C, 83. 
Lutton, Charles A., 206. 
Lutton. Mrs. John. 82. 
Lutton. William, 82. 
Lyfort, Seymour, 246. 
Lyker, Dr. Aimer A., 87. 
Lvker, Henry C, 87. 
Lvker, John V., 183. 
Mabee, Abram, 184. 
Mabee. Peter H.. 240. 
McClary, Major William, 89. 
McClumpha, Alonzo, 281. 
McCurtie, William, 90. 
McDougall, Daniel, 91. 
McDuffee. Ellsworth, 99. 
McDuflee. Jiidson, 228. 
McFee, James Adelmer, 97. 
MacGregor, Alexander, 185. 
Machold, Bernard, 255. 
Mclntyre, Martin, 97. 
Mclntyre, Peter C, 96. 
McKinney. John, 285. 
McMartin, Duncan, 96. 
Major, Walter M., 89. 
Mallette. Dr. George P., 296. 
Manchester. Darius V., 262. 
Mansfield, Thomas W., 184. 
Manzer. Edwin F., 88. 
Marcellus, Abram, 93. 
Marcellus Family, The, 268 
Marcellus, James N., 268. 
Marcellui!, Mahlon, 268. 
Markell, Jacob H., 312. 



Marshall, James E., 90. 
Martin, Charles, 91. 
Mathias, James, 269. 
Maynard, A. J., 272. 
Merselis, Daniel W., 94. 
Mesick, Peter A., 284. 
Messinger. Stephen, 88. 
Meyer. Dr. George L., 98. 
Meyer, John, 303. 
Miller. Abram B., 94. 
Miller, Irviu, 222. 
Miller. James A., 89. 
Miller, J. Jav. M. D., 93. 
Miller, John'C, 90. 
Miller, Jonas, 91. 
Mills, Daniel P., 286, 
Milmine, Alexander, 279. 

Milmine, Alfred J., 95. 

Mohawk Valley Stone Company, 288. 

Moore, David, 208. 

Moore, Joseph Leonard, 156. 

Morphy, Thomas, 89. 

Morris, John F., 89. 

Mosher, Statibrd, 92. 

Mount. Elijah, 97. 

Mowrey, Michael W.. 98. 

Moyer, Abram H.. 92. 

Moyer, Charles, 99. 

Moyer Family, The, 233. 

Moyer, Frederick, 233. 

Moyer, Henry L. 93. 

Moyer, Jacob, 211. 

Munsell, William J., 88. 

Murphy, Thomas, 185. 

Myers, -iugustus, 201. 

Myers & Parker, 184. 

Nare Family, The, 101. 

Seff, Joseph, 209. 

Nellis, Abraham, 101, 

Nellis, Edward L, 187. 

Nellis Family, The, 185. 

Nellis, Frazer, 187. 

Nellis, Harvev, 226. 

Nellis. Jacob "C. 100. 

Nellis, James W., 225. 

Nellis, John W., 99. 

Nellis, Peter, 277. 

Nellis, Peter F., 320. 

Nellis, Sylvander, 101. 

Nestle, Daniel L., 101. 

Nestle Family, The, 99. 

Noonen, William C, 170. 

O'Brien, Dr. John C, 254. 

Olmstead, Jeremiah, 302. 

Olmsted, Riilofl", 109. 



INDEX. 



Ostrom. Daniel. 310. 
Ostrom^ David J., 240. 
Ostrom, Stephen, 102. 
Ottman, Ezra &., 188. 
Ottman. Mrs. Catharine A.. 102. 
Overbaugh. Charles, 278. 
Overbaugh, Mvron, 102. 
Ozmun. Dr. I. Davis, 210 
Pardee. J. H.. 112. 
Patten, David S., 206. 
Patterson, Alexander il., 246. 
Patterson, I. Frank, 279. 
Patterson. William H., 228. 
Pawling. Mary A.. 104. 
Pawling, William H., 107. 
Payne, H. Blackford, 109. 
Peck, Richard, 107. 
Peck. Tunis, 106. 
Peddie, Dr. William J., 241. 
Pepper. Aaron. 267. 
Perkins. John W.. 188. 
Perrv, William. 251. 
Pettingill. Adam Z., 103. 
Pettengill. William T., 253. 
Phillips. George E., 108. 
Pickard Familv. The. 107. 
Pitcher. George O.. 316. 
Place, Daniel N , 109. 
Plantz, Giles H., ir4. 
Post, Henry W.. M. D., 109. 
Post. James. 188. 
Potter, George W., 246. 
Potter, John K.. 105. 
Potter Oscar K., 106. 
Potter, Uriah. 239. 
Powell, Samuel F., 103. 
Powers, William H., 112. 
Pruyn, Jacob. 208. 
Pruyn. Mrs. Catherine, 105. 
Putman, Howard, 106. 
Putman, John V., 204. 
Putman. Simon W., 110. 
Putman. Victor, 111. 
Putman, Victor A.. 110. 
Putman, W. Brower, 20 
Putnam. John W., 109. 
Putnam, M. Matilda, 104. 
Putnam. Victor G., 105. 
Quackenbush, David H., 112. 
Quilhot. John, 112. 
Quiri. Edward A., 207. 
Rapp, Gerard V., 282. 
Rapp. William C. 116. 
Reagies, Marcus, 299. 
Reid, Jay A., 114. 



Raid, Myron W., 216. 
Reid, W. Max, 114. 
Retalhck, Joseph. 118. 
Reynolds, Edington E., 254. 
Reynolds. Jacob, 120. 
Rice, Jonas. 219. 
Richards, Warren N.. 313. 
Richmond, Adelbert G., 117. 
Rickard. Arthur, 119. 
Rickard. Charles, 116. 
Rickard, Frederick, 223. 
Rickard, John, 119. 
Rivenburg. Jonas, 113. 
Robinson, Henry J.. 118. 
Romeyn, Thomas E., 113. 
Roof Family. The, 115. 
Rosa, I.saac A.. 193. 
Roser, Adam, 117. 
Roser. Joseph. 117. 
Routstone. Jacob. 288. 
Rowe, John H.. 245. 
Ruback. Charles F.. 115. 
Ruflt. William, 208. 
Rulison. Elbert T., M. D.. 113. 
Rulison, Eleazer E , M. D., 115. 
Runkle. Charles W., 280. 
Runkle, Henry, 119. 
St. John, Lewis M.. 190. 
Salisbury. Henry K., 170. 
Saltsman, Adam, 193. 
Saltsman, Alvin, 139. 
Saltsman, Amelia M., 138. 
Saltsman. Jeremiah, 137. 
Saltsman, Romain, 221. 
Saltsman, Ward Beecher, 167. 
Saltsman. William M., 195. 
Sammons, Colonel Simeon, 318. 
Sammons. Samuel G.. 135. 
Sanders Family. The. 235. 
Sanderson. Frederick N.. 275. 
Sanford, D. Halsey. 274. 
Sawyer. Rev. Leicester J., 252. 
Scharff. Charles W.. 195. 
Schenck Family, The, 321. 
Schenck. Ralph, 136. 
Schmidt, Edward L,, 310. 
Schultze. Charles E.. 133. 
Schuyler, Albert, 126. 
Schuyler, Alonzo, 276. 
Schuyler, Andrew J., 127. 
Schuyler, Daniel D., 280. 
Scbuvler. Frederick. 191. 
Schuyler, George S., 130. 
Schuyler. Hamilton. 275. 
Schuyler, Jacob, 245. 



INDEX. 



Schnyler, John, 276. 
Schuyler, John D., 124. 
Schayler, Peter V., 239. 
Schuyler, Thomas E.. 127. 
Scott, Alonzo M., 139. 
Scott, Barney, 127. 
Scott, Nelson, 120. 
Scudder, Charles W., 252. 
Seeber. H. Clay, 28. 
Seeber. William H.. 213. 
Selmser. Jacob, 246. 
Serviss, William, 121. 
Shaper. Charles. 293. 
Shaper. Henrv A., 221. 
Shaw, Thomas J., 297. 
Shelp, M. Mount. 130. 
Shepard, Horace B., 263. 
Sherivood, John B., 319. 
Shinaman, Henry Ernest, 129. 
Showerman, Menzo, 219. 
Shubert, Frank, 326. 
Shuler. Cholett, 121. 
Shuler, Freman, 126. 
Shuler, Isaac Clizbee, 123. 
Shull, Alfred W.. 226. 
Shults, Christopher W., 145. 
Shults, Dewitt Clinton, 129. 
Shults, James W., 132. 
Simmons, Menzo, 125. 
Simons, Frank E., 134. 
Sitterly, Jere S., 136. 
Siver, Henry, 276. 
Sloan. J. Richard, 133. 
Sloan. Peter. 203. 
Smeallie, P. Henry, 303. 
Smith, Adam, 132. 
Smith, Bartholomew, 194. 
Smith, Benjamin, 169. 
Smith, Charles D., 139. 
Smith, Dr. Andrew P., 134. 
Smith, Isaac Eugene, 188. 
Smith, John, 128. 
Smith, J. Cooper, 234. 
Smith, John Garrett, 210. 
Smith, J. Harvev, 138. 
Smith, John H., 293. 
Smith, Jonas S., 317. 
Smith, Joseph, 191. 
Smith, Matthew, 237. 
Smith, Martin L., 134. 
Smith. Ralph H., 136. 
Sneck, George, 239. 
Snell, Edwin S., 314. 
Snell, Enoch, 309. 
Snell, Jacob, 195. 



Snell, James R., 124. 
Snell, John B., 139. 
Snell, Orvill., 215. 
Snell. Peter B., 223. 
Snyder. George. 138. 
Snyder, Henry C. 234. 
Snyder, Orlando C., 200. 
Snvder, Peter W., 130. 
Sn'vder, William E., 124. 
Snyder. William P., 2.52. 
Somers. Melancthon, 309. 
Sowle, Isaac C, 122. 
Spore, James, 249. 
— Spore, John A.. 249. 
Spore, Peter P., 123. 
Spraker, Daniel, 136. 
Spraker, Daniel, jr., 140. 
Spraker Family. The, 132. 
Spraker. Frasier, 219. 
Spraker, James D , 194. 
Stairs. Robert, 121. 
Staley, T. Romevn, 280. 
Stafford, Harvey R., 194. 
Starin, Levi A , 131. 
Starin, Mrs. Elizabeth E., 131. 
Stebbins. William H., 253. 
Steingraves, Orlando, 191. 
Stewart. James, 192. 
Stewart, John D., 125. 
Sticht, Christopher, 131. 
Storms, Emorv G., 313. 
Stover, George B., 123. 
Stover. Martin J., 192. 
Stowitt, Philip H.. 304. 
Stowitts. George P,, 229. 
Striker. Mrs. Sarah M , 168. 
Suits, Nicholas J., 122. 
Suits, Peter L., M. D., 135. 
Suits, William H., 284. 
Sutherland, Henry L.. 317. 
Sutton, Richard W., 122. 
Swart, Cornelius. 126. 
Swart, Daniel, 125. 
Swart, Isaac W., 216. 
Sweatman, Dr. Newton F., 120. 
Sweet, John S. 264. 
Sweet, Spencer D., 264. 
Sweet, Waterman J., 123. 
Teeple, Calvin P., 142. 
Terwilliger, Orville B., 141. 
Terwilliger, William H., 140. 
Thayer, Hiram, 280. 
Thompson. Wilbur S.. 142. 
Tiilotson. Mrs. Prudy M.. 285. 
Timmerman Family, The, 141. 



348 



INDEX. 



Tomlinson, George M., 168. 
Towman. Frank B. 142. 
Transue, William L,. 295. 
Truax. George S., 140. 
Van Alstine, Cornelius, 14 1. 
Van Alstine, Cornelius, 148. 
Van Antwerp. John N., 144. 
Van Buren, Daniel F., 146. 
Van Buren. Martin. 255. 
Van Deveer. Tunis I.. 196. 
Van Derveer, George G., 248. 
Van Derveer, Ira, 145. 
Van Derveer, Thomas J., 214. 
Van Derveer, VV. Spencer, 280. 
Van Deusen, Edwin Smith, 144. 
Van Deusen, Henry A., 150. 
Van Dusen, Barnet, 234. 
Van Epps William. 240. 
Van Evera, James P., 197. 
Van Evera, Peter F., 196. 
Van Evera, Roof, 147. 
Van Heusen, Franklin. 146. 
Van Home. Abrara. 167. 
Van Home, Daniel C, 279. 
Van Home, Rev. Abram, 203. 
Van Home. Schuyler. 144. 
Van Ness, Henry" 148. 
Van Slyke Family, The, 232. 
Van Slvke. Margaret. 149. 
Van Vechten, John H.. 143. 
Van Wie. Daniel G.. 218. 
Van Wie, Fletcher, 150. 
Van Wie, George D., 226. 
Van Wie, Peter, 149. 
Van Wie. William, 147. 
Van Wormer, Isaac H,, 258. 
Vedder. David F., 243. 

Vedder, Francis B., 242. 

Vedder, John D., 167. 

Vedder, John J., 144. 

Vedder, John O., 146. 

Vedder, Joshua. 197. 

Veeder, Johannes, 211. 

Veeder, Major-Genera! Abram, 301. 

Voorhees, Edward G.. 197. 

Voorhees, George M., 255. 

Voorhees, J, Enders, 143. 

Vosburg. Jay, 306. 

Vosburgh, Howard. 289. 

Vrooman Family, The, 145. 

Vunk, John H., 318. 

Wagner, Chauncey. 204. 

Wagner. Englehardt. 156. 

Wagner, Harvey E.. 198. 

Wagner, Nathan, 162. 



Wagner, Oliver G.. 220. 
Wagner, W. Clark. 198. 
Wait, Henry. 153. 
Waldron. Hicks B., 199. 
Walraih, Alfonzo, 236. 
Walrath. Charles, 280. 
Walrath, Emory, 157. 
Walrath. Harry, 205. 
Walrath, Martin, 315. 
Walrath, Reuben K., 224, 
Walrath, Seward, 207. 
Walrath. William, 203. 
Walts. Gasharee. 153. 
Walts, Reuben, 156. 
Ward, James H., 151. 
Warner, Charles E., 198. 
Warren, R. Devene, 159. 
Warring, Charles H., 199. 

Waterstreet, John H., 205. 

Weller, Edwin. 234. 

Weller, Lester Myron, 155. 

Wemple, Adam Z., 159. 

Wemple, Dow, 201, 

Wemple, Edward, 157. 

Wemple, Harvey, 281. 

Wemple, H. Seymour, 154 

Wemple, Nicholas, 158. 

Wemple. Robert. 242. 

Wemple, Simon, 278. 

Wemple, William H., 241. 

Wendell, Frederick Fox. 155. 

Wendell. Willis, 243. 

Wessell, Jacob A., 163. 

Wessell, Joseph P., 158. 

Wessell, Marv E., 308. 

Wessells, Dr.'Silas A.. 244. 

Wessels, Richard L., 160. 

Wetterau, Henry, 166. 

Whitcomb, Calvin, 152. 

Wheeler, Charles W., 159. 

White, Dr. Joseph, 160. 

White, Dr. Maxwell, 251. 

White, Edward Payson, 200. 

White. George B., 153. 

White, WiUard J., 284. 

Whitmore, Peter, 275. 

Wilde, Charles, jr.. 151. 

Wilde, Charles H., 262. 
Wilde, James h . 259. 

Wilde, Stephen T., 266. 
Wiles, Abram, 161, 
Wiles Family, The, 154, 301, 
Wiles, John" 237. 
Wilkie, Henry 0., 199. 
Williams, Charles W., 300. 



INDEX. 



349 



Williams, Cornelius T., 201. 
Williams. Edwin. 291. 
Williams, Thomas 0., 291. 
Wilson, Henry. 197. 
Wilson, John"W., 162. 
Wilson, William H., 162. 
Windbiel. John, 247. 
Winegar, Charles P., 152. 
Winnie, Richard, 157. 
Wittemeier, Frederick, sr., 151. 
Witter, John Jacob, 238. 
Wohlgemuth, Peter C, 224. 
Wood, Edwin Wellington, 154. 
Wood. Herbert Coburn, 231. 
Wood, W. W., 223. 



Worden, Rev. Alonzo T., 161. 

Wright, George, 152. 

Yates, E. Lansing, 202. 

Toran, Levi W., 164. 

Tost, Daniel, 164. 

Tost, George. 235. 

Tost, John, 233. 

Tost, Peter, 164. 

Toung, Dr. Henry Charles, 163. 

Toung, Luther H., 244, 

Toung, Norman, 164. 

Zieley, David, 277. 

Zoller Family, The, 165. 

Zoller, Jacob!, 165. 

Zoller, William. 234. 




} 




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